The Central New York Regional Transportation Authority introduced nine new diesel-electric buses to its Centro fleet, bringing hybrid technology to Central New York’s public transit system for the first time.

“We are proud to embark on our next phase of clean air bus technology,” said Centro Executive Director Frank Kobliski. “Fifteen years ago we brought compressed natural gas buses to Central New York and today we enter the world of hybrid technology. Our community will reap the benefits of a cleaner, quieter bus ride.” Centro first introduced CNG buses to Central New York in 1994 and currently operates 120 CNG buses in Syracuse and surrounding suburbs.

Over the next few years, Centro plans to largely convert its fleet to hybrid technology. It is estimated it will reduce fuel usage by more than 4 million gallons over the lifetime of the approximately 130 such buses to come on line over the next five years– a 33% reduction compared to CNG buses. In addition to a significant reduction in emissions, the hybrid buses also reduce noise pollution, operating at sound levels approaching those of passenger cars.

The hybrid buses were unveiled March 22, 2007 during a bus parade from the campus of the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF) to downtown Syracuse. A brief ceremony followed with the supportive participation of local government leaders who declared the day as “Centro & SUNY-ESF Green Day.”

“I am very pleased that the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry is part of Centro’s very significant transition to even cleaner and quieter technology, making public transportation in Central New York even better,” said SUNY-ESF President Neil Murphy. “We know it is going to take a collective effort to resolve the current energy constraints and the impact on climate change. It is not enough to just develop alternative fuels, we have to use fuel more efficiently and this commitment is a major step in that direction.”

The hybrid propulsion system recaptures energy during the braking process and converts it to electricity, which is later used to accelerate the bus. This unique process actually makes the bus more efficient in city driving than in highway use.

“When you add up the reduction in fuel consumption and reduced maintenance costs because this technology allows you to extend the life of brakes, engine oil and transmission fluid, we expect to offset the increased capital costs,” said Kobliski.

The early feedback from bus operators is positive. The buses have excellent acceleration and handle very smoothly, making them easier to maneuver in heavy traffic situations. The quieter ride offers an improved work environment for drivers who spend long hours behind the wheel and for passengers, pedestrians and the community at large.