New ‘green’ buses set to whirr into action

A FLEET of "green" double-decker buses is to go into service in London this week.

The hybrid bus is said to be quieter, smoother for passengers and is the first to be powered solely by an electric motor.

Traditional hybrids switch to fuel when the electric motor is under too much pressure.

But the "Hybridive" only uses diesel to drive an electrical generator to top up the batteries, which are charged every time the driver uses the brakes.

The bus was developed by defence company BAE. Rob Lindsay of BAE said the bus was well suited "to the slow speeds and constant stopping and starting of London".

Vehicle maker Alexander Dennis will supply 12 double-decker and five single-deck buses.