Volvo Buses unveiled what has been the world’s first commercially viable hybrid bus – the Volvo 7700 Hybrid. The Volvo Hybrid solution is already commercialised and operating across 20 cities worldwide with a proven track record of saving up to 37 percent fuel consumption and over 50 percent in hazardous emissions in actual customer operations. The unveiling follows the recent launch of the new Volvo Bus Range including the models on display – Volvo 9400PX coach, Volvo 7400XL multi-axle city bus and Volvo 9100 coach.

Since its launch, the Volvo Hybrid solution has emerged as a commercially viable bus and has been adopted for regular use in countries in the Americas and Europe. The company says, eight out of 10 customers have thus far returned for repeat purchase of these buses. In December 2011, Volvo Buses has secured orders for a total exceeding 450 hybrid buses from Mexico, Brazil and Europe.

Speaking at the launch, Akash Passey, managing director & CEO, Volvo Buses in South Asia, said: “The Volvo Hybrid is very much the solution cities and environmentalists have asked for. We are ready. All we await is the demand and the direction from the authorities, so that we can apply this solution specifically to Indian needs. The Volvo 7700 Hybrid has been unveiled to showcase our intent and readiness for India.”

The Volvo 7700 Hybrid is equipped with a smaller diesel engine and an electric motor, which can be used independently or jointly. The electric motor is driven by energy from a battery that is charged when the bus brakes. At bus stops, the diesel engine switches off completely, which creates a silent and exhaust-free environment at bus stops. The bus then restarts only with the help of the electric engine. The diesel engine does not start until the bus reaches 15-20 km/hour.