Ipswich Buses has partnered with Scania to bring one of its biogas-powered double-deckers to the Suffolk town’s streets.
The Euro VI gas bus began its trial on June 3, and will operate on Route 5 for six weeks.
The route runs from Ipswich Town centre (Tower Ramparts) to the town’s hospital, operating roughly every 12 minutes.
During this period the bus will also be promoting the 2018 UK Clean Air Day on June 21 and Catch the Bus week from July 2-7.
Scania’s chassis is paired with an Enviro400 body from Alexander Dennis Ltd (ADL); CO2 emissions are reduced by up to 84% compared to a conventional diesel bus, claims Scania.
The Swedish company’s OC09 nine-litre, five cylinder gas engine produces 280 horsepower at 1,900rpm and 1,350Nm torque at 1,000-1,400 rpm, and is able to run on compressed natural gas (CNG) or biogas.
During the trial, temporary gas-refuelling infrastructure will be provided by Nottingham-based supplier Roadgas.
Danielle Devonish, Marketing Manager at Ipswich Buses, said: “We are delighted to be given the chance to trial the biogas-powered bus. We believe biogas is a strong contender on how buses will be powered in the future.
“There has been a big interest with our passengers and members of the general public on how the bus is powered and what impact it will have on the environment.”
Tanya Neech, Sustainable Solutions Manager for Scania (Great Britain) Limited, commented: “Our biogas double deck bus has been independently tested and is accredited under the Low Emission Bus Scheme.
“The latest round of funding is open for bids until June 30 and we are excited to see what biogas projects will be put forward.”
