Hybrid buses' fuel economy promises don't materialize
#1
11-20-2007, 06:59 AM
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Huntsville, AL
Posts: 5,613
Hybrid buses' fuel economy promises don't materialize
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/transp...9_metro13.html
It is important that folks realize 'hybrid' may not be the best answer in all cases. However, there is some evidence that the engine change had something to do with the poor performance. To work, the electric, battery and engine must be well integrated to work together.
Bob Wilson
Monday, December 13, 2004
By JANE HADLEY
SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER REPORTER
Expensive new hybrid diesel-electric buses that were portrayed by King County Metro as "green" heroes that would use up to 40 percent less fuel than existing buses have fallen far short of that promise.
In fact, at times, the New Flyer hybrid articulated buses have gotten worse mileage than the often-maligned 1989 dual-mode Breda buses they are replacing. . . .
By JANE HADLEY
SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER REPORTER
Expensive new hybrid diesel-electric buses that were portrayed by King County Metro as "green" heroes that would use up to 40 percent less fuel than existing buses have fallen far short of that promise.
In fact, at times, the New Flyer hybrid articulated buses have gotten worse mileage than the often-maligned 1989 dual-mode Breda buses they are replacing. . . .
Bob Wilson
Last edited by bwilson4web; 11-20-2007 at 07:03 AM. Reason: Sorry, I just noticed the date, 2004!
#2
11-20-2007, 07:24 AM
Re: Hybrid buses' fuel economy promises don't materialize
More specific, it was getting better mileage, but the engine wasn't certified for the new lower emissions standards. The certified engine is far less fuel efficient according to its manufacturer. It's easy to conclude that any new diesel bus (non-hybrid) will also get much reduced fuel mileage, and the hybrid is more efficient.
GM also has hybrid buses. I wonder how they are doing? The whole concept of a hybrid bus is quite old. I remember reading about them being used back in the 1960s. No battery -- a large flywheel was used to store energy. This is certainly the way to go for city use where electric trolleys are impractical.
GM also has hybrid buses. I wonder how they are doing? The whole concept of a hybrid bus is quite old. I remember reading about them being used back in the 1960s. No battery -- a large flywheel was used to store energy. This is certainly the way to go for city use where electric trolleys are impractical.
#3
11-20-2007, 02:25 PM
Re: Hybrid buses' fuel economy promises don't materialize
Before cars became popular, many cities had trolley systems. Eventually most trolley systems were bought out, only to have the tracks covered by asphalt as cars became more mainstream.
In our town you can still see where the trolley tracks were covered over.
Kind of reminds me of the EV-1's...
In our town you can still see where the trolley tracks were covered over.
Kind of reminds me of the EV-1's...
Last edited by Gairwyn; 11-20-2007 at 02:30 PM. Reason: pic
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