Volvo hybrid bus to hit Bangalore roads soon

Bangalore, Jan 23: The Volvo hybrid bus, unveiled at the Delhi Auto Expo earlier this month, would be launched on Bangalore roads soon, Karnataka Transport Minister R Ashok said on Monday. The 105-seater single bus would have a two-month trial run in the city, expected to be from this month itself, he told reporters here.

As per a preliminary report, it cuts diesel fuel costs by 30 per cent, while emissions are significantly less, Ashoka said. According to officials, the Volvo 7700 hybrid has a diesel engine and an electric motor, which can be used either independently or jointly.

The battery that drives the motor is charged through re-generative braking. The engine shuts off when the vehicle is stationary and does not start again till the bus reaches 15-20 kmph, further saving fuel, they said.

PTI