Book Description

Although hybrid transit buses offer significant fuel savings and other benefits, there is still some concern that it is difficult to recuperate initial capital costs (Transport Canada 2011). Hybrid buses have not yet been in service through the 15 to 20 year service life that is used by transit agencies. This technical brief summarized costs for hybrid transit buses compared to conventional transit buses based on a summary of the literature, web resources, and team experience. Costs include those related to initial purchase cost differentials, savings in fuel use, reduced emissions, potential reduced maintenance due to decreased engine and brake wear, and replacement of the hybrid battery pack. To quantify lifecycle costs fully, agencies will need additional information about actual costs as well as methods to calculate savings from non-tangibles such as reduction in emissions.