http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/transp...9_metro13.html

It is important that folks realize 'hybrid' may not be the best answer in all cases. However, there is some evidence that the engine change had something to do with the poor performance. To work, the electric, battery and engine must be well integrated to work together.

Bob Wilson

Operation Iraqi Oil Freedom:

Automatic, stock, project car.

My other 1500 cc car:

Automatic, stock, backup car.
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More specific, it was getting better mileage, but the engine wasn't certified for the new lower emissions standards. The certified engine is far less fuel efficient according to its manufacturer. It's easy to conclude that any new diesel bus (non-hybrid) will also get much reduced fuel mileage, and the hybrid is more efficient.

GM also has hybrid buses. I wonder how they are doing? The whole concept of a hybrid bus is quite old. I remember reading about them being used back in the 1960s. No battery -- a large flywheel was used to store energy. This is certainly the way to go for city use where electric trolleys are impractical.

Before cars became popular, many cities had trolley systems. Eventually most trolley systems were bought out, only to have the tracks covered by asphalt as cars became more mainstream.
In our town you can still see where the trolley tracks were covered over.


Kind of reminds me of the EV-1's...