Diesel-electric hybrid buses

In June 2007, Ottawa City Council approved the acquisition of 202 diesel-electric hybrid buses.
Two pilot buses were delivered in October 2008 and are scheduled to go into service in mid-November. The Orion VII (Next Generation) diesel-electric hybrid buses will be used on routes where stop frequency is high and average speed is low to obtain maximum benefit from the hybrid technology, including energy recovery during braking. To start, the two hybrid buses will service routes 5, 14 and 18.
The remaining buses are scheduled to hit the road in the summer of 2009 and 2010.
Benefits to the environment of converting the City’s transit fleet from conventional diesel to hybrid diesel-electric buses:
The City’s transit fleet includes 1,016 diesel-fuelled buses. City transit vehicles produce over 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2), which accounts for about 80 per cent of the total amount of CO2 and greenhouse gases (GHG) produced by all City-owned vehicles.
The 202 hybrid buses, of which 120 are replacement vehicles, will allow for an annual CO2 reduction of over 5,000 tonnes or more when used consistently on high frequency stop routes.
Orion VII (Next Generation) hybrid bus features:
The City selected the Daimler Buses North America-DBNA (also known as Orion Bus Industries) Orion VII (Next Generation) hybrid bus model as the best option to fit Ottawa’s environmental and transportation needs. The hybrid propulsion system is provided by BAE Systems. The HybriDrive propulsion system technology reduces emissions and increases fuel economy while meeting the durability requirements of urban transit operations. The system consists of a generator, an electric motor and an engine storage system managed by computerized controls. The buses also feature roof-mounted lithium-ion battery packs, which increase battery life and reduce vehicle weight, improving fuel economy and reducing emissions.
This environmentally friendly 40-foot diesel-electric hybrid bus is expected to reduce fuel consumption by 17 to 36 per cent compared to conventional diesel buses. The Orion VII features seating for 38 passengers. The bus is also a low-floor, fully accessible vehicle that can regularly accommodate two mobility aids such as wheelchairs, scooters or walkers.
Other features:
Air conditioned for comfort
Lithium-ion battery technology – lighter while more efficient
Increased bus reliability
Lower drive-by and interior noise levels
Fresh new styling inside with LED lighting and enhanced exterior design
Large windows for unobstructed views
Manufacturer:
Daimler Buses North America (Orion Bus Industries), Mississauga, ON
http://www.orionbus.com/orion
Emissions:
17 to 36 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency
17 to 36 per cent less GHG emissions than a conventional diesel bus
Cost:
$650,000 per bus
Capacity:
38 seated passengers
Size:
40’ (12 m) long; 11’ (3.35 m) high
Weight:
42,540 lbs (19,350 kg)
Engine:
Low exhaust emissions Cummins ISB, six-cylinder turbocharged diesel with cooled exhaust gas recirculation
Body:
Stainless steel underframe, and body frame and lightweight aluminum exterior panels

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