The Department of Transportation Services of the city and county of Honolulu, Hawaii has selected BAE Systems’ HybriDrive Series-E propulsion system to power four New Flyer Xcelsior 60-foot, low-floor rapid transit buses. The system enables all bus accessories, such as air conditioning, power steering, and more, to run electrically.
“Honolulu’s new buses will be equipped with Series-E electric drive, which not only reduces noise in and around bus stops, but represents a greater impact on environmental sustainability for the communities in which it operates,” said Steve Trichka, vice president and general manager of HybriDrive Solutions at BAE Systems. “Because of these features, Honolulu riders will enjoy reduced noise at stops, while the Honolulu transit authority can take advantage of electric drive modes to eliminate emissions and reduce engine idling.”
New Flyer of America Inc. will provide the four articulated buses, equipped with BAE Systems’ hybrid propulsion system, to the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) of the City and County of Honolulu. Articulated buses are comprised of a single-deck design with two rigid sections linked by a pivoting joint, allowing for higher passenger capacity.
“These series hybrid buses not only provide improved fuel economy and reduced noise and exhaust emissions, but they perform best under low average speed and frequent stop conditions,” said Mike Formby, director of DTS for the city and county of Honolulu. “The series hybrid technology makes these buses best-suited for use in Honolulu’s urban core. It’s a win-win for the transit community and for the clean environment we all treasure in Hawaii.”
