Wednesday 7 July 2010

Low carbon economy could drive bus renaissance

Concerns about climate change could lead to a renaissance of the bus, a session at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has heard.

National Express Group's environment director Nick Coad said environmental legislation had focused on improving local air quality. As a result, modern engines are cleaner but consume about 20% more fuel.

He said: "As congestion gets worse, our fuel economy gets worse. If we are not careful we will end up introducing more fuel efficient technology that will do little if coaches are stuck in traffic."

He said to reduce green house gas emissions further we have to increase the number of people using buses and coaches.

Mr Coad said a "compelling and mitigating strategy for transport" was needed if we are to see an 80% shift from cars to coaches by 2050.

He said ways to manage emissions included, reducing demand for transport, improving vehicle efficiency and getting people out of cars and on to public transport.