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A hybrid bus is a type of bus that uses two or more distinct power sources to move the vehicle, typically combining a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor.

A hybrid bus typically uses a combination of an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, and a battery pack. The engine and the electric motor work together to power the vehicle, with the electric motor providing additional power when needed, such as when accelerating or climbing hills. When the bus is slowing down or braking, the energy that would normally be lost as heat is instead captured and stored in the battery pack for later use.

Some of the benefits of hybrid buses include improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and lower operating costs. Hybrid buses can also offer a smoother and quieter ride compared to traditional diesel buses.

Yes, hybrid buses are typically more expensive to purchase than traditional diesel buses, but the higher upfront cost can be offset by lower operating costs and fuel savings over the life of the vehicle.

One of the main challenges of operating a hybrid bus is ensuring that the different components of the hybrid system work seamlessly together, and that the battery pack is properly maintained. Another challenge can be the limited availability of trained mechanics who are familiar with hybrid technology.

The amount of hydrogen used by a hydrogen bus can vary depending on factors such as the size of the fuel cell system, the driving conditions, and the efficiency of the fuel cell. On average, a hydrogen bus may consume around 5-8 kilograms of hydrogen per 100 kilometers of driving. This is results in the same operational range as a traditional diesel bus. However, it is worth noting that the exact amount of hydrogen used can vary greatly based on the specific make and model of the bus, as well as its operating conditions.

The lifespan of a hydrogen bus can vary depending on factors such as maintenance, operating conditions, and the quality of the components. On average, a hydrogen bus can last between 12 and 15 years, which is similar to the lifespan of a traditional diesel bus.

However, the key components of a hydrogen bus, such as the fuel cell, the hydrogen storage tanks, and the power electronics, are designed to last for many thousands of hours of operation and can often be replaced or refurbished as needed, allowing the bus to continue operating for a longer period of time.

It's also worth noting that advancements in hydrogen fuel cell technology are continuously being made, leading to more durable and longer-lasting fuel cells and other components, so the lifespan of a hydrogen bus may continue to increase in the future.

A hydrogen fuel cell bus is a type of bus that uses a fuel cell to generate electricity, which is then used to power the vehicle's electric motor. The fuel cell works by combining hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity, with water and heat as byproducts. This makes hydrogen fuel cell buses environmentally friendly as they emit only water and heat, with no harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases. The heat can also be captured to provide heat to the passenger saloon, reducing the total energy required to keep the bus warm for passengers in the colder months.

Fuel cell buses have a range similar to that of traditional diesel buses, and they can be refueled quickly and easily with hydrogen, making them a practical and convenient alternative to traditional diesel buses.

Fuel cell technology has been under development for several decades, and significant progress has been made in recent years to improve its efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness. As a result, hydrogen fuel cell buses are becoming increasingly popular as a means of reducing emissions and improving air quality in cities and towns around the world.

An electric vehicle (EV) is a type of vehicle that is powered by an electric motor and runs on electricity from batteries rather than gasoline or diesel fuel.

An electric vehicle works by using an electric motor, powered by a battery pack, to turn the wheels and move the vehicle. The battery pack is recharged by plugging the vehicle into an electric charging station or by using regenerative braking to capture energy that would otherwise be lost as heat during braking.

Some of the benefits of electric vehicles include lower operating costs, reduced emissions, and improved air quality. EVs are also typically more efficient than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, as they don't suffer from the energy losses associated with internal combustion engines.

The range of an electric vehicle can vary depending on factors such as the size of the battery pack, the driving conditions, and the efficiency of the vehicle. On average, an electric vehicle can travel between 200 and 400 km on a single charge, although some new models can travel even further.

The time it takes to charge an electric vehicle can vary depending on the type of charging station and the size of the battery pack. Charging at a fast direct-current charger can take as little as 2 hours, while charging at a slower alternating-current charger can take several hours.

The upfront cost of an electric vehicle can be higher than that of a traditional diesel-powered vehicle, but the lower operating costs and reduced emissions can offset the higher upfront cost over time. Additionally, many countries offer incentives and tax credits to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, making them more affordable.

A double-decker bus is a type of bus that has two levels, with the upper level providing additional seating and space for passengers.

Double-decker buses are powered by a conventional diesel engine or an electric motor, and they use a system of gears and transmissions to transfer power to the wheels. They are equipped with a stairway that allows passengers to access the upper level, and they are usually wider and taller than single-level buses to accommodate the additional seating and space.

The main benefits of a double-decker bus are its increased capacity and space efficiency, as well as its iconic appearance and cultural significance. Double-decker buses can carry a large number of passengers, making them an efficient and cost-effective mode of public transportation, especially in densely populated urban areas.

Double-decker buses are wider, taller, and longer than single-level buses, providing additional space for passengers and allowing for a higher passenger capacity. They also have a different design and layout, with a stairway and upper level seating, which makes them stand out from single-level buses.

Double-decker buses are equipped with safety features such as seat belts, and reinforced structural components, and they are subject to rigorous safety standards and testing requirements. Additionally, many double-decker bus operators have established strict safety policies and procedures to ensure the safety of their passengers.

Double-decker buses can be powered by either conventional diesel engines or electric motors, and many cities and operators are increasingly moving towards more environmentally friendly options, such as hydrogen fuel-cell, electric or hybrid double-decker buses, to reduce emissions and improve air quality.

The number of seats on a double-decker bus in the UK can vary depending on the model and specifications of the vehicle. On average, a standard double-decker bus in the UK can seat between 60 to 90 passengers, with seating arrangements that typically include both upper and lower decks. However, some double-decker buses in the UK can have even more seating capacity, with some larger models accommodating up to 120 passengers or more. The exact number of seats will depend on the size and design of the bus, as well as the specific requirements of the operator.

The height of a double-decker bus can vary depending on the model and specifications of the vehicle. On average, a standard double-decker bus in the UK is between 4.4 to 4.6 meters (14.4 to 15 feet) tall. This includes both the height of the upper deck and the height of the roof-mounted air conditioning and ventilation systems.

It's worth noting that the height of a double-decker bus can have an impact on its ability to navigate under low bridges and other structures, so it's important to consider this when selecting a double-decker bus for a specific route or operation. Some double-decker bus models are designed with a lower profile to help overcome this issue, but this can also impact the amount of headroom and seating capacity on the upper deck.

The length of a double-decker bus can vary depending on the model and specifications of the vehicle. On average, a standard double-decker bus is between 12 to 14 meters (39 to 46 feet) long. However, some larger models can be as long as 18 meters (59 feet) or more. The exact length of a double-decker bus will depend on the number of seats, the width of the vehicle, and the specific requirements of the operator.

It's worth noting that the length of a double-decker bus can have an impact on its maneuverability and parking requirements, so it's important to consider these factors when selecting a double-decker bus for a specific route or operation. Additionally, the length of a double-decker bus will also affect the overall cost of operating the vehicle, as longer buses may require more fuel and may also be more expensive to maintain.

The weight of a double-decker bus can vary depending on the model and specifications of the vehicle. On average, a standard double-decker bus in the UK weighs between 12 to 16 tonnes (13 to 17.6 tons). This weight includes the weight of the vehicle itself, as well as any passengers, luggage, and other cargo that may be on board.

It's worth noting that the weight of a double-decker bus can have an impact on its performance and fuel efficiency, as well as the wear and tear on the roadways and bridges it travels over. Additionally, the weight of a double-decker bus will also affect the overall cost of operating the vehicle, as heavier vehicles may require more fuel and may also be more expensive to maintain.  

The length of a double-decker bus can vary depending on the model and specifications of the vehicle. On average, a standard double-decker bus is between 12 to 14 meters (39 to 46 feet) long. However, some larger models can be as long as 18 meters (59 feet) or more. The exact length of a double-decker bus will depend on the number of seats, the width of the vehicle, and the specific requirements of the operator.

It's worth noting that the length of a double-decker bus can have an impact on its maneuverability and parking requirements, so it's important to consider these factors when selecting a double-decker bus for a specific route or operation. Additionally, the length of a double-decker bus will also affect the overall cost of operating the vehicle, as longer buses may require more fuel and may also be more expensive to maintain.

The number of seats on a double-decker bus can vary depending on the model and specifications of the vehicle. On average, a standard double-decker bus in the UK can seat between 60 to 90 passengers, depending on the configuration of the vehicle

The exact number of seats on a double-decker bus will depend on the dimensions of the vehicle, the space required for passengers to move around and access the upper deck, and the specific requirements of the operator. Some double-decker buses may have more seats on the lower deck, while others may have more seats on the upper deck.

It's worth noting that the number of seats on a double-decker bus can have an impact on its maneuverability and parking requirements, as well as the overall cost of operating the vehicle. Additionally, the number of seats on a double-decker bus will also affect the comfort and accessibility of the vehicle for passengers.

The height of a double-decker bus can vary depending on the model and specifications of the vehicle. On average, a standard double-decker bus in the UK is between 4.5 to 4.7 meters (14.8 to 15.4 feet) tall. This height includes the height of the upper deck of the bus, as well as any additional features such as air conditioning units or roof-mounted luggage racks.

It's worth noting that the height of a double-decker bus can have an impact on its ability to pass under bridges, tunnels, and other overhead obstructions, so it's important to consider these factors when selecting a double-decker bus for a specific route or operation. Additionally, the height of a double-decker bus will also affect the overall cost of operating the vehicle, as taller buses may be more expensive to maintain and repair.

The cost of a double-decker bus in the UK can vary depending on the model and specifications of the vehicle. On average, the cost of a standard double-decker bus in the UK can range from £250,000 to £500,000 ($338,000 to $676,000) or more, depending on the manufacturer, the size and seating capacity of the bus, and the additional features and equipment that are included.

It's worth noting that the cost of a double-decker bus can vary significantly based on the specific requirements of the operator, such as the intended route and the climate and terrain in which the bus will be operating. Additionally, the cost of a double-decker bus will also be affected by factors such as the cost of financing, insurance, and maintenance, as well as the cost of fuel and other operating expenses.

It's recommended to get a detailed quote from a bus manufacturer or supplier to get an accurate estimate of the cost of a double-decker bus that meets your specific requirements.

Electrification is not the whole solution, but certainly part of the solution. There are diverse routes, topography, frequency or service, passenger loads and other factors to consider. Wrightbus has a unique route planning tool which assess all the routes from a depot and it identifies which routes are suitable for battery electric and which are better service with hydrogen electric buses.

Buses have a very different duty cycle to cars, where battery electric seems to be favoured over other forms of zero emission technology (this is not the best approach). To cover routes that hydrogen buses are more suited to you have to have twice the number of battery electric buses to cover the route duty cycles to allow for recharging times, not the most efficient way to deploy capital funds on a zero emission fleet.

Pioneering work is being done to develop hydrogen combustion engine technology by global brands like JCB and Toyota. We are watching this closely and would not rule out this technology in the future when engines are available that match the performance of current diesel technology. The good aspect of this technology is that the emissions is carbon free water vapour.

The buses currently use gaseous hydrogen, to the specification required for fuel cell use. We always stay open-minded and there may be a place for liquid hydrogen in the future.

The buses have 350bar hydrogen tanks, which we feel is a suitable pressure for HGV type transportation (trucks are working on the same). Cars tend to use 700bar tanks to get additional range, however to double the pressure means the tanks need more than double the carbon fibre composite wrap, adding significant cost of the tanks.

Yes, hydrogen is widely used in industrial applications and as such they have very strict rules and regulations on hydrogen, which makes hydrogen a very safe option. Wrightbus follows stringent hydrogen and pressure vessel regulations on-board the buses. There are over 100 hydrogen buses in service and this fleet have covered over 2 million kilometers safely.

Hydrogen does not have a specific shelf-life and is a non-reactive gas so can remain as hydrogen for many years. Generally the rule of thumb is to not keep gases stored for longer than 3 years, due to the potential for contamination.

Hydrogen is often referred to in different colours, but the best way is to consider fossil-derived hydrogen or renewable hydrogen. The hydrogen itself is exactly the same, it is classified by the type of energy used to make it:

Fossil-derived

• Blue hydrogen – hydrogen produced by Steam Methane Reforming of Natural Gas and CO2 produced is captured and stored. Technically “Net-Zero” if all CO2 is captured and stored – technology is still in development.
• Grey hydrogen – hydrogen produced by Steam Methane Reforming of Natural Gas (CO2 produced in the process.
• Turquoise hydrogen – hydrogen produced by Methane Pyrolysis of Natural Gas, where the outputs are hydrogen and solid carbon.

Renewable

• Green hydrogen – hydrogen produced by electrolysis of water using renewable electricity (from wind, solar, hydro, etc.)
• Yellow hydrogen – a derivation of green hydrogen when it is specifically made from solar energy
• Pink hydrogen – hydrogen produced using nuclear energy.

Wrightbus hydrogen buses can work with all colours of hydrogen. Ideally, to ensure true Net Zero journeys, the hydrogen should be sourced from zero carbon emitting energy supply. Then the journeys the buses make, have zero carbon consequence in service and from the hydrogen supply.

E-fuels are synthetic, man-made fuels where hydrogen is produced and combined with carbon captured from the air. It is still in its infancy and the cost is extraordinarily high at compared to diesel or hydrogen, which would make ticket prices to high to be acceptable to commuters.

Other General Questions

Wrightbus Headquarters in Ballymena, Northern Ireland is home to the world’s first double deck hydrogen bus and the world’s most efficient battery electric bus, as well as our new single deck products. We understand that bus and technology enthusiasts would love to come and visit the site and take a look around behind the scenes at production and at our finished buses. Unfortunately we are currently unable to facilitate private tours and cannot offer private photo opportunities. We do endeavour to share as much of our production environment on our social media pages, along with official photographs of new products as soon as they have been officially launched by their operators. Occasionally we host official tours, such as the NI Science Week Tour, and we will advertise booking for these events as far in advance as possible.

Unofficial photography is not permitted on the Wrightbus site.

Thanks to our continued success, Wrightbus now employs over 1000 people, and our teams are growing. We have career opportunities company wide. From production, logistics, engineering, quality and support roles, there are a wide range of avenues open to begin or progress your career. Please visit the careers section of this site for more information and to listen to staff testimonials on their experiences as part of the Wrightbus team.