Clean hybrid buses 'to enter capital's transport network'

Date: 28/3/2011

Dozens of new hybrid buses are to be integrated into the UK capital's public transport network as part of plans to improve air quality in the city.

According to Transport for London (TfL), finance for 90 vehicles has been secured from the Department for Transport's Green Bus Fund.

The buses will take TfL's hybrid fleet up to more than 200 and they will be put into service in some of the areas of the city that have been identified as pollution "hotspots" - including Marylebone Road and Edgware Road.

Mike Weston, London Buses' Operations Director, said: "We are making excellent progress in this new and exciting technology and remain committed to maximising the number of new hybrid buses entering service from 2012."

Arriva will operate the new vehicles on a number of routes through the capital.

Another service travellers in London may be enjoying by 2012 is Wi-Fi on the Tube, after TfL revealed that London Underground is inviting bidding from telecoms companies to tender and roll out the technology.

It is hoped that by the time of the Olympics, passengers at 120 stations will be able to get online.

Posted by Nick Anderson