http://www.tfl.gov.uk/corporate/projectsandschemes/2019.aspx
Hybrid buses in use
There are 301 diesel-electric hybrid buses in London, running on routes 3, 12, 15, 16, 19, 23, 24, 38, 73, 76, 94, 139, 141, 188, 211, 380, 328, 360, 371, 436, H91 and E8.
How they work
Hybrid buses are powered by a mix of an ordinary diesel engine and an electric motor.
The hybrid buses we use also have regenerative braking, which means they generate electrical energy when the brakes are pressed.
This electrical energy is stored in a battery pack and used to drive the electric motor.
Download our factsheet on hybrid technology (PDF 102KB)
The hybrid programme
Since the initial introduction of hybrid buses in 2006, manufacturers have developed variations of hybrid systems for trial in London. The trial has helped develop newer generations of hybrid bus for full scale roll out.
The programme to deliver 300 hybrid buses has been achieved ahead of the December 2012 target. This milestone is now complete but our work with bus operators and manufacturers of increasing the number of hybrid buses across the London bus network will continue. By March 2013, an additional 150 hybrid buses will be expected to have joined the fleet. In addition the Mayor is committed as part of his manifesto to deliver 600 NBfL hybrid buses by April 2016.
The pace of the roll-out of hybrid buses will depend on available funding streams and standard route contract tenders.
Environmental benefits
We test hybrid buses to make sure they produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions, harmful pollutants and lower noise levels.
Compared with diesel buses, hybrid buses deliver environmental benefits, including:
- Minimum 30 per cent reduction in fuel use
- Minimum 30 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide
- 3 decibel [dB(A)] reduction in perceived sound levels
- Reduced oxides of nitrogen and carbon monoxide