| WestStart
Hybrid Bus Working Group
Recent Update
Purpose: WestStart-CALSTART, the nation’s leading advanced transportation
technology industry organization, is organizing and leading the Hybrid
Bus Working Group to focus on the commercialization of hybrid
drivetrains in shuttle type buses (those 35 feet and under but primarily
in and around 25 feet, Class 3 – 6). The purpose of this working
group is twofold: 1) to define a common truck/bus chassis in these
vehicle classes which will lower manufacturing costs and speed hybridization
in shuttle bus applications; and 2) to organize fleet operators interested
in purchasing hybrid cab/chassis (cutaway shuttle-type buses).
Specifically the Hybrid Bus Working Group will
-
develop common Class
3 – 6
truck/bus chassis and performance specifications that will
lead to a lower
initial purchase price and
speed hybridization in shuttle bus applications.
-
develop a manufacturer RFP with
working group agreed-upon specifications to build a Class 3 – 6
hybrid chassis and powertrain for use in shuttle bus applications.
-
participate in a group purchase of
pre-production hybrid buses from the winning company
-
participate in data collection activities,
for an amount of time determined by the working group participants,
on
the hybrid
bus(es)
purchased and put into operation in the individual participant’s
fleet
Background: Currently WestStart-CALSTART
has successful working groups organized and operating in utility
trucks,
delivery trucks, and refuse
trucks. Although hybrid buses are well into the large transit bus market,
the opportunities for manufacturers, suppliers, and fleet operators
of these smaller buses have not yet been tapped. The Hybrid
Bus Working Group plans to lead this effort by coordinating the common
chassis and performance needs of Class 3 – 6 commercial trucks
and shuttle type buses.
Who Should Be Involved: Public and private operators of shuttle-type buses,
paratransit buses, and small school bus fleets interested in participating
in the activities stated in the purpose and goals of the working group
and are motivated to get the industry moving by purchasing fully-functional,
pre-production, factory-warranted vehicles.
For more information: For further information and participation in
the Hybrid Bus Working Group, fleet operators should contact:
Tony Bryant
Bus Maintenance Director
TriMet
503-962-7515
Tony Bryant
|
