New London bus is entirely emissions free
March 1, 2013
With the average fuel consumption of a double-decker London bus a paltry 4.5mpg, the arrival on the capital’s streets of an entirely emissions-free bus could herald a new era of environmentally-friendly public transport.
The Pedibus’s green credentials are courtesy of its passengers, all of whom have to pedal to keep it moving. The bus uses a strong but lightweight aluminium chassis that means each cyclist is carrying no more than a few extra kilos in comparison to cycling a conventional bike. The Pedibus is so efficient that one person can cycle it with relative ease.
Gradients of 7% are achievable with a little extra legwork. According to its operators, a physically-fit passenger crew of 8 can generate up to 7hp and enough endurance to get the Pedi bus from Windsor to London in just under six hours.
The Pedibus is not intended for long distances – its aim is to provide green and sociable tours of London sites.
Solar panels charge batteries by day in order to power a sound system and lights by night.
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Information correct at time of publication.