victoria plugging an electric bus into regular runs for six-month test - home battery system
B. C.
Transit hopes to inject vitality into the future of transportation by putting electric buses into regular service for the first time.
The battery-powered bus will begin carrying passengers on January.
"This is very important for us because it is the technology that is emerging around the world," said B . "C.
Manuel Achadinha, president and chief executive of transportation. “We, as B. C.
Transportation, want to make sure we keep up with the pace of technology development.
Advances in electrical technology
The battery bus is constantly improving every year and getting better and better. ” B. C.
In the past, Transit used electric buses, but never used them. The six-
The monthly trial will begin with B. C.
Achadinha said the transport mechanic evaluated the vehicle before it hit the road.
"It will run in the area," he said . ".
"We want feedback from our customers.
"The bus was made by Chinese BYD Company Build you dream.
During the trial, the company was paying for buses and their charging stations.
Like other buses in Area B. C.
The electric model is 12 metres long and can carry 72 passengers.
It is powered by a 324-
One-hour battery, one charge will travel about 250 kilometers a day, and then charge for three to four hours overnight.
Achadinha said a traditional bus traveled 350 to 400 kilometers a day and he wanted to see an electric bus close to that range.
At present, the price of an electric bus is about twice that of a traditional diesel bus.
However, BYD said they had lower fuel costs and less maintenance than diesel models.
Susan Briis, chairman of the Victoria Regional Transport Council, said she fully supports electricitybus trial.
"We need to look at the equipment we are using and be prepared when new, greener equipment makes sense in North America," she said . ".
"This trial will give us a better understanding of our needs in Greater Victoria and how they can be met.
BYD's representative, Ted Dowling, said the buses being tested are reducing carbon dioxide by 75 tons per year compared to traditional buses.
Passengers will notice how quiet the trip is, he said.
"You can talk to the driver from behind if you want.
BYD has delivered more than 30,000 buses around the world, and they "will stay", Dowlin said ".
"It won't be a problem, but when every bus in town is electric. ” B. C.
Previously, Transit introduced other options such as hybrid and compressed gas buses.
"Many other transport agencies are following us," said Achadinha . ".
"They know that we are usually the first to try new technology.
"Taco Bell @ timeslonist.