Nottingham City Transport is on the quest to lower harmful emissions by introducing the first 10 of 73 new fuel-efficient buses. Public transport is set to move into the future with over 70 buses taking the place of older models in the next year.
The buses which are currently on the road travel to the University of Nottingham’s Jubilee campus via the 31 route and to Top Valley via the 87/88 route. The routes by which the remainder of the buses will travel have not yet been revealed, but 33 of these will be single decker buses while 40 will be double decker buses.
Marketing manager Anthony Carver-Smith has revealed that, as well as helping the environment, the buses will also provide a smoother, more comfortable journey for passengers.
The £5.4 million investment is just the first step towards creating one of the lowest emission fleets in the UK and is one of the largest investments made for Nottingham City Transport buses. The new Euro 5 engines will cut particulate matter emissions by 87% and nitrogen oxide emissions by 71%. Carbon monoxide emissions will be 63% lower than regular engines.
In addition to adding low emission engines, Nottingham City Transport is looking into telemetrics in order to devise ways to improve the way they drive. The aim of this is to find a more environmentally friendly way of driving which will further increase the eco-friendliness of the new vehicles.
What are Euro 5 engines?
The emissions of certain harmful gases are regulated by EU legislation and there are different European Emission Standards for each type of vehicle. Euro 5 is the name given to the standards set for light passenger and commercial vehicles, such as buses. The gases regulated are:
- Carbon monoxide
- Nitrogen oxides
- Non-methane hydrocarbons
- Total hydrocarbon
- Particulate matter
Euro 5 bus engines have low emissions which are compliant with EU standards and they also have the added bonus of emitting less noise. They have low running costs too making them efficient to use on a budget.
The future of eco-friendly public transport
Many companies are likely to follow suit in introducing these environmentally friendly buses. National Express, Dundee has recently purchased several hybrid-electric double decker buses in order to cut down fuel emissions. Stagecoach has also launched 27 new environmentally friendly buses which comply with Euro 5 standards therefore it would seem that public transport is set to become more eco-friendly within the next year.
The benefits of eco-friendly public transport are endless. The air will most certainly be cleaner and low in harmful emissions therefore it will be much easier for commuters to breathe. Noise pollution will also be reduced making travelling a much more pleasant experience. So what do the public think about these new developments in public transport?
Passengers have stated that they are generally pleased about Nottingham City Transport’s decision to stay on top of recent technology developments for the purpose of protecting the environment. Although some have expressed concern for fare prices, others have shown enthusiasm for the transport company’s positive attitude towards the environment. Several more transport companies are likely to follow Nottingham City Transport’s example as the UK moves forward to a more sustainable future.
Green Insurance Company operates their business with environmental sustainability in mind. Every employee is fully trained in environmental awareness and the company works hard to support many local community environmental projects. In addition to this, each employee is offered the opportunity to earn an eco-friendly car and all supplies are environmentally friendly as well as recyclable.
