The CNG-Electric Tata Starbus Hybrid, coming to the streets for the Commonwealth Games in Delhi
Tata Motors recently presented to the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), four units of its CNG-Electric Hybrid low-floor ‘Starbus,’ the only bus of its kind in the country.
‘The CNG- Electric Hybrid Tata Starbus is a result of Tata Motors’ advances in alternate fuel technologies, including electric vehicles. We are grateful to the Government of Delhi and the DTC for giving us this opportunity of showcasing hybrid buses in the city of Delhi during the Commonwealth Games,’ said P M Telang, Tata Motors’ Managing Director – India Operations.
The four Hybrid Starbuses will run in Delhi during the Commonwealth Games period – this will be the first time when Hybrid buses will be used for public transport anywhere in the country. The Hybrid Tata Starbus is powered by a parallel hybrid engine comprising an internal combustion CNG engine and an electric motor using regenerative energy storage system. Parallel hybrid technology uses power generation simultaneously through both the CNG engine and the electric motor to drive the vehicle.
Compared to a conventional bus, the Tata Starbus Hybrid offers substantial improvements in fuel economy and lower emissions. The low-floor air-conditioned bus can seat 32 passengers and can also accommodate wheelchairs. Pneumatically-operated in-swing and out-swing flat doors and kneeling facility allow easy entry and exit, full air suspension and telescopic double-acting shock absorbers provide good ride quality, and an energy-efficient HVAC system enhances comfort. With high starting acceleration, and a maximum speed of 70km/h, the Tata Starbus Hybrid is an eco-friendly solution for fast and comfortable intra-city passenger movement.
During the Commonwealth Games, DTC will also operate a fleet of 600 Tata low floor air-conditioned CNG buses for the exclusive use of athletes and delegates. Tata Motors is providing upkeep and maintenance of these buses, with a dedicated team of over 500 engineers, mechanics and other staff at the Millennium Park Depot, specially created for the Commonwealth Games.
