SBS buses parked at the Toa Payoh bus interchange, on Jan 16, 2017.
The authority said on Wednesday (Oct 11) that the move was part of its efforts to build a more environmentally friendly public bus fleet.
“Not only can commuters expect quieter and smoother rides, bus captains can also enjoy a more comfortable working environment,” the LTA said in a statement. “To prepare our bus workforce for this change, LTA will work with industry partners to help upgrade our bus professionals through the Singapore Bus Academy.”
The 50 buses – which are powered by a diesel engine as well as battery power – will be rolled out gradually for service by the second half of 2018.
The LTA said the roll-out will also allow it to gauge the performance of such buses in the local environment, as well as help bus technicians and engineers better understand the technical challenges in maintaining such buses.
Volvo East Asia had submitted “a high-quality proposal with the best value for money” to clinch the contract. “The company has a strong track record, with its buses forming about a third of the entire public bus fleet currently in Singapore,” the LTA added.
The 50 diesel-electric buses will form the largest fleet of hybrid buses in use here.
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