Volvo has unveiled a new hybrid bus which the company is claiming to be 37% more fuel efficient than its diesel version.
The new bus is powered by a small 4-cylinder diesel engine and is equipped with I-Shift gearchanging system which enhances the fuel efficiency.
According to Volvo, the batteries store energy produced during engine braking at a bus stop or traffic light and will in turn power the vehicle's electric motor as well as various auxiliary systems including climate unit, doors and power steering.
The company's new hybrid bus weighs about 500 kg less than its earlier models, which will allow it to carry additional seven passengers, further increasing the productivity by 8%.
Volvo claims that the hybrid buses will generate 30-40% less emissions of climate-impacting carbon dioxide and only half the nitrogen oxides and particles, when compared to the corresponding diesel bus.
The company is also testing additional solutions including plug-in hybrid, where the batteries of bus are recharged through the main electrical grid and is expected to offer nearly 60% fuel savings.
Volvo Buses had begun production of hybrid buses in 2010, and has sold about 650 units to customers in 18 countries.
