May 29, 2008

Plug-In Hybrid School Buses Fuel Economy Leaps

Recent dynamometer test results conclude that IC Bus school buses using post-transmission hybrid drive systems can improve fuel efficiency by more than 70 percent compared to standard diesel-powered school buses. The Enova hybrid drive systems installed in the IC Bus school buses also significantly reduce carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions. These route-specific test results show that significant progress has been made in developing, engineering and deploying fuel-efficient and cost-competitive hybrid electric buses.

An extensive series of fuel consumption and emissions tests were conducted to simulate actual route cycles and conditions using the West Virginia University Suburban Test Cycle. (Luckily, no one else wanted to use the cycle at that time.) The tests were conducted at an independent commercial laboratory accepted by the California Air Resources Board that is properly equipped to perform specialized tests in accordance with applicable federal and California test procedures -- a wise choice. Tests were conducted on two buses equipped with different engine types. In addition to the 70 percent fuel economy improvement, carbon dioxide production was reduced by 40 percent, particulate matter by 30 and NOx by 20. The new system had no net effect on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches aboard each bus.    

In March 2007, the first plug-in hybrid electric school bus was delivered to Manatee County Schools in Bradenton, Fla., by IC Bus, Enova Systems and Advanced Energy. Today, 19 hybrid school buses are on the road in 11 states thanks to the efforts of Advanced Energy and its partners.