Comparison on the Use of Hybrid and Plugin Hybrid Electric Buses for Sustainable Urban Transportation–Split Use Case

Abstract

Urban livability faces significant challenges due to traffic congestion, noise, and vehicle emissions. Electric buses offer a promising solution to reduce noise and tailpipe emissions in cities. However, their limited range, constrained by battery capacity, can hinder operational flexibility. As an alternative, plug-in hybrid electric buses (PHEB) and hybrid buses (HB) provide a more versatile option by combining zero-emission capabilities with conventional diesel engines. Their efficiency depends on battery capacity and the strategic allocation of electric drive sections along routes. Yet, existing electric drive assignment systems remain suboptimal, as they do not fully exploit the potential of hybrid propulsion.