Mayor White Leads Houston's Green Initiatives

With nearly 100 new hybrid buses already integrated into its fleet, METRO is moving toward a more cost-effective and eco-friendly future. Mayor Bill White lauded the quieter, smoother ride yesterday after he boarded a hybrid bus during rush hour in route to the Northwest Transit Center.

"It was a great ride. And for this time of day we made great time," Mayor White said.

The hybrid buses require less maintenance, contributing to lower operating costs and save about 30 percent in fuel.

Hybrid buses draw power from two energy sources: a clean diesel, heavy-duty engine combined with a drive unit and electric energy from batteries located on the roof of the vehicle. The diesel electric system works well in frequent stop-and-go service because the electrically-driven propulsion system has high torque at low speeds, providing smooth, fast acceleration.

METRO will introduce another 100 hybrid buses to its fleet in 2008.