The £12m fleet of 25 single-decker hybrids will cover 40% of its route on electric power alone
New hybrid engine technology is set to be introduced to the Lothian Buses fleet in partnership with Volvo in 2017.
The £12m investment would see the operator provide the first fully commercial service with 25 new hybrid-electric vehicles, which are currently being trialed in various European cities by the Swedish manufacturer.
Lothian Buses expects the single-decker buses to reduce carbon emissions by up to 75% and diesel consumption by 40% compared with the current fleet on service number 30. The vehicles will be expected to cover the most polluted parts of their route on electric power alone and should be able to cover seven miles – 40% of the route – in this way.
Under the plans the fleet will use four charging stations, which are set to be built at Clovenstone and Musselburgh. A bus will be fully charged in six minutes and there would also be access for cars and other vehicles.
Bill Devlin, Lothian Buses Engineering Director said: “This really is the next logical step in creating more environmentally-friendly travel options for our passengers.
“We’re at an advanced stage in our discussions with Volvo and are very excited about the prospect of bringing this technology to Edinburgh’s roads.
“As one of the UK’s leading bus operators, we are planning ahead to ensure we meet, and exceed, emissions targets set by the Government. It’s important to our customers and us, as a company, that we are committed to reducing the impact of our services on the city as much as possible.”
Derek McKay MP, Scottish Minister for Transport and the Islands said: “Lothian Buses have shown consistent commitment to improving the environment performance of their fleet in parallel with delivering real benefits for passengers and I’m pleased that we have been able to support them along the way through our Scottish Green Bus Fund.
“As technologies in this area continue to develop, I’m delighted to have this opportunity to see how innovative bus manufacturers and operators can work together to deliver further step changes in terms of greener, high quality public transport options.”
Volvo has commenced a tour with a concept vehicle, which appeared at Lothian Buses’ Doors Open Day on September 26.
The open day was held at the operator’s Central Garage on Annandale Street from 1200-1600hrs, with a selection of new and vintage buses on display.
