There is no question that hybrid electric powertrains are more efficient than traditional internal combustion
There is no question that hybrid electric powertrains are more efficient than traditional internal combustion
However, if you still end up paying nearly $200,000 more over the life of the vehicle even after factoring in fuel savings, it becomes really hard to make a case for hybrid buses. Ann Arbor has been aggressive about acquiring hybrid buses over the past seven years with 52 of the 80 buses in the current fleet sporting motors and batteries.
Unfortunately, most transit agencies struggle to cover costs from fares and as the AAATA prepares to expand services next year, it is rethinking whether to go hybrid or conventional diesel due to the expense. ?
The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority is known in part for its large fleet of hybrid buses, which burn through less fuel, generate fewer emissions and make slightly less noise than conventional diesel buses. But despite promises of a cleaner…