Request ID: FOI-0443-2425 Date published: 20 May 2024
You asked
I am making an FOI request about the buses featuring the Smart Hybrid Technology which are run by bus operators Stagecoach & Transport UK (known as Abellio formerly).
TFL have introduced stickers by the London Fire Brigade on their buses since last year, however it has come to my attention that the buses with Smart/Mild Hybrid technology feature the regular grey coloured Diesel sticker, why is this?
I would like to inform that the Smart Hybrid buses contain additional features over conventional Diesel buses such as - Ultracapacitors, Regenerative Braking and a small electric boosting motor to assist the engine.
Unless I'm mistaken these buses are still registered as Hybrid vehicles?
I hope you will answer my FOI with the relevant information.
Kindest Regards
We answered
Our ref: FOI-0443-2425/GH
Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 6 May 2024 asking for information about buses with Smart/Mild hybrid technology.
Your request has been considered under the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and our information access policy. I can confirm that we do hold the information you require.
The buses with Smart/Mild Hybrid technology have all of the features you listed within your request. The only difference is that they are low voltage, less than 60 Volts DC. Therefore these buses do not present the additional high voltage risks of other hybrids vehicles, and are therefore not classified as hybrids for the purpose of the emergency first responder signage.
Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.
Yours sincerely
Graham Hurt FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
