Though all of us can step up our efforts for a cleaner environment by traveling about the city using public transport services, Londoners can do the same and score more green points over others. This is because 17 new hybrid double-decker buses have rolled into the city. Touted to be the first of its kind, such a green drive doubles up as an unquestionable eco-friendly public commuting system. The Transport for London and Metrobus have recently taken the delivery of this green version of iconic red fleet of buses seen on London streets. Built by Britain's Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) and BAE Systems, the hybrid system uses a generator, an electric motor and lithium-ion battery storage along with a regenerative braking system.

The ultra compact diesel motor juices up the generator and a computerized propulsion control system manages to power delivery to the electric drive. However for speeding up on the double, power is pulled from both the batteries and the generator. These buses also use a new, lighter energy storage system that aim to boost up battery life, reduce vehicle weight and in bargain adds up to fuel economy and trim emissions.

About 1,500 buses equipped with such a green combi-system are already zipping past the cities of New York, San Francisco, Houston, Toronto, and Ottawa. It is estimated that such a mode of transport has helped to save up five million gallons of diesel fuel and cut down about 50,000 tons of carbon emissions Green-Business-Travel . And now its London's chance to serve its citizens with such a clean, green drive and make a difference to the environment.

[Autobloggreen] & [Gizmag]