Converting Diesels: Breathing New Life into Old Buses

While transitioning to a fleet of brand new electric or hydrogen buses is ideal, the reality is that many cities and public transport authorities have existing diesel buses that can't be simply discarded. This is where the concept of retrofitting or converting diesel buses comes in.

There are two main approaches to consider:

Diesel-Electric Hybrid Conversion: This involves adding an electric motor and battery pack to a diesel bus. The diesel engine remains operational, but it works in conjunction with the electric motor to propel the bus. This approach offers several benefits:

Reduced Emissions: By relying on electric power for part of the journey, especially during idling and stop-and-go traffic, hybrid conversions can significantly lower emissions compared to a pure diesel bus.

Improved Fuel Efficiency: The electric motor assists the diesel engine, leading to less fuel consumption per kilometre travelled.

Cost-Effective: Converting a diesel bus is typically cheaper than purchasing a new hybrid bus.

However, there are also limitations:

Limited Electric Range: * Hybrid conversions generally have a smaller battery pack compared to a full electric bus, restricting the distance they can travel solely on electric power.

Complexity: * Adding electric components to an existing diesel system requires technical expertise and can be time-consuming.

Full Electric Bus Conversion: This is a more ambitious undertaking, involving the complete removal of the diesel engine and drivetrain and replacing them with an electric motor and battery pack. This offers the most significant environmental benefit:

Zero Tailpipe Emissions: Full electric conversions eliminate emissions from the bus itself, contributing to cleaner air.

However, challenges also come with this approach:

High Cost: * Completely revamping the drivetrain is a complex and expensive process.

Battery Capacity: * Installing batteries with sufficient range can be costly, and older bus chassis might require modifications to accommodate them.

The Philosophy of Conversion

The decision to convert a diesel bus depends on several factors:

Remaining Lifespan: If a diesel bus has a significant number of years left in its operational life, converting it to hybrid or electric can extend its usefulness in a more sustainable way.

Budgetary Constraints: Conversion costs need to be weighed against the cost of purchasing new electric buses. Government grants or subsidies for conversions can make them a more viable option.

Route Length and Charging Infrastructure: For shorter routes with access to charging stations, full electric conversions might be feasible. Hybrid conversions are a good option for longer routes where some reliance on diesel is still needed.

The Road Ahead for Conversions

Technology advancements are constantly improving the feasibility and affordability of converting diesel buses. As battery technology progresses and conversion costs decrease, we can expect this approach to play a more significant role in the transition to cleaner public transportation.

By strategically utilizing conversions alongside investments in new electric and hydrogen buses, cities can create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly?bus?fleet.