Hybridbussen

Hybridbussen is a bus that combines an internal combustion engine with electric propulsion, using energy storage such as batteries or capacitors to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions on urban routes. The concept aims to lower diesel consumption by recovering energy during braking and by allowing electric drive in city traffic.

There are several propulsion configurations used in Hybridbussen. In series hybrids, the diesel engine powers a generator that charges the battery, while an electric motor drives the wheels. In parallel hybrids, the engine and the electric motor can both contribute to propulsion. Mild-hybrids use an auxiliary electric motor to assist the engine without driving the bus alone. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) carry larger batteries that can be charged from the grid, enabling longer zero-emission operation between charges. Regenerative braking is commonly employed to recover kinetic energy.

Energy storage for Hybridbussen typically involves lithium-ion batteries, with some designs using ultracapacitors for rapid energy exchange. Charging can occur at depots or via regenerative braking, and plug-in variants can be charged from the electrical grid. The choice of configuration affects fuel savings, range, and maintenance needs.

Applications and considerations. Hybridbussen are widely used in urban public transport to reduce fuel consumption and local emissions, particularly in stop-and-go service. They offer quieter operation and can operate on routes where pure electric charging infrastructure is limited. However, they generally involve higher upfront costs and more complex maintenance than conventional diesel buses. As battery costs fall and charging infrastructure expands, many fleets are balancing hybrid and full-electric options.

Manufacturers such as Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Scania, BYD, and Yutong produce Hybridbussen, and cities around the world have adopted them as part of broader strategies to improve air quality and meet emission targets.