Edinburgh To Receive Next-Generation 'Green' Buses
New environmentally friendly technology is expected to come to one of Edinburgh's transport networks by 2017.
The latest environmentally-friendly bus engine technology is set to be introduced in Edinburgh in a partnership with Volvo.
The move would see the capital provide the first fully commercial service with 25 new diesel-electric vehicles, which are currently being trialled in various European cities by the Swedish manufacturer.
It is expected that the buses will reduce carbon emissions by up to 75% and diesel consumption by 40% compared with the current fleet.
The announcement comes as Volvo begins a tour with a concept vehicle, which will also be on public show at Lothian Buses’ Annandale depot this weekend.
Councillor Lesley Hinds from Transport for Edinburgh said; “The introduction of these electric hybrid buses underlines our ambitions for Edinburgh to have a transport system that uses cleaner energy to improve the environment for the city’s residents and visitors. Lothian Buses has made significant investments, supported by the national Green Bus Fund, into creating a fleet that reduces the carbon footprint of its operations. This strong record, combined with Edinburgh Trams and this latest development, will further our efforts towards creating greener public transport and improving local air quality.
It is planned that the buses will service the popular route 30, which travels through three designated Air Quality Management Areas (Musselburgh, Princes Street and Gorgie Road). In those busy sections the bus would switch from diesel to electric power. With an estimated 11km of electric range, up to 40% of the route can be covered using electricity, producing zero tailpipe emissions with almost silent running.
Four charging stations are to be built at to allow the vehicles to recharge. The charge alone will give the bus 7km of electric range with an additional 4km provided by energy from braking. The charging technology used is similar to that utilised on Edinburgh Trams and it is hoped that in the future the two modes can use the same power supply.
Since 2011, over £18.5m has been invested in low carbon vehicles at Lothian Buses, with £5.8m coming from The Scottish Government’s Green Bus Fund. Currently 62% of its 700-strong fleet of is standard Euro 5 or above.
The new 25 single decks are estimated to cost between ÂŁ10-12m. Discussions are ongoing with The City of Edinburgh Council and Transport Scotland on funding options.
A concept vehicle is arriving from Sweden and will be available for the public to view at Lothian Buses’ Doors Open Day on Saturday 26 September from 12.00 – 16.00hrs at the Central Depot on Annandale Street.