The cutting-edge technology prevents buses from ‘ticking over’ whilst loading and unloading passengers at bus stops. Instead, it automatically switches the engine off as soon as the driver activates the handbrake and opens the doors – thereby reducing pollution by restricting the discharge of particulate matter and nitrous oxide emissions* during these times.
The leading Euro 6 technology also features an ongoing safety system whereby, if a bus is giving out more emissions than it should be, it goes into ‘limp mode’ and effectively shuts the vehicle down. Previous Euro 1-5 standards only test at new and are not on-going.
The 22 new ADL (Alexander Dennis Limited) E400 MMC buses - which all feature the redesigned colour-coded Park & Ride livery - represent a £4.7 million investment by Stagecoach East, and are now officially the greenest in Cambridge.
Andy Campbell, Managing Director of Stagecoach East said: “This is the very latest technology and was only just available when we ordered the new Park & Ride fleet. The principle is a simple one: Turn the engine off when the bus isn’t moving and it will use less fuel, improving overall economy and, very importantly, lessening emissions.
“We see this as being a positive step forwards and a significant contribution towards improving air quality in congested Cambridge, reducing our environmental impact and hopefully encouraging more customers to opt for our greener, smarter travel.
“Looking after the environment is an important consideration for us as we have frequent bus services running every 10 minutes. When we look to invest in future vehicles, we will be looking to buy in the same technology or whatever future enhancements are available. We are committed to investing in our services as we aim to deliver the highest standards of public transport in our city, both now and in the future.”
As well as improved engine efficiency and a higher standard of emissions, the new Park & Ride fleet provides on-board Wi-Fi, USB sockets and improved comfort for passengers.
* The new stop-start system promises to reduce fuel consumption by between 4%-7% (depending on duty cycle) and cut nitrous oxide emissions by 30%-40%.
