Tata Motors set to bag 25-bus order for Starbus Hybrid

Tata Motors, which had showcased its BS IV-compliant Starbus Hybrid bus at the recent Auto Expo 2016, is set to bag a 25-unit order from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). It is understood that these buses will ply in in and around the business district of Bandra Kurla Complex in suburban Mumbai.  

This information was revealed by Ravindra Pisharody, vice-president, SIAM, and executive director (Commercial Vehicles), Tata Motors, at a seminar on 'Making India a Global Manufacturing Hub for Auto and Auto Components' in Mumbai, as part of the Make in India Week, today. 

The manufacturer claims the Starbus Hybrid, which Tata claims is the world’s first commercially produced CNG hybrid bus using electric and CNG modes as fuel.

The Tata Starbus Hybrid Bus is a single-deck design comprising two rigid sections linked by a pivoting joint. The vehicle is a full low-floor 40mm bus that goes 340mm after kneeling. Tata claims it offers substantial improvement in fuel economy compared to a conventional bus. The technology also leads to lower emissions, thereby contributing to cleaner and greener air. The vehicle uses CNG and electric in series hybrid mode, to propel the vehicle that complies with all UBS-II (Urban Bus Specifications), AIS 051 (Automotive Industry Standards) and CMVR (Central Motor Vehicle Rules).

The vehicle works on electric mode producing zero emissions, while the CNG mode is BS IV-compliant. The bus is based on a modular chassis, with electronically controlled air suspension systems (ECAS) at the front and rear, electronically controlled braking systems and an automatic transmission. The Starbus Hybrid also uses new generation lithium ion phosphate batteries (Prismatic Cell).

Tata Motors has successfully tested hybrid buses in Indian and global markets. In 2010, Tata Motors the Tata Starbus Hybrid was given to the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), on a trial basis, during the Commonwealth Games. Similarly hybrid buses are in operation in Madrid, Spain, with a series hybrid system, together covering more than 400,000 kilometres.