FUEL AND ENGINE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENTS

Communities worldwide are increasingly concerned about the possible air-quality and health risks posed by diesel emissions from buses. Research has confirmed that their concerns are well-founded. Yet research has also confirmed that, despite being perceived as major contributors to diesel emissions, buses actually contribute only some 7 percent of total diesel emissions to the atmosphere. This paper examines the extent to which buses contribute to diesel fume emissions, and documents worldwide developments in alternative bus fuels such as gas, hybrid and fuel cell technology. It goes on to discuss results from recent demonstration projects that have used alternative fuels and new engine technologies in metropolitan bus fleets in a bid to reduce diesel emissions. It then outlines Australia's position and strategies for the future, following its signing of the Kyoto Protocol and acceptance of Euro 2-4 emission standards. The paper concludes with some observations about possible reasons for the recent interest in reducing diesel emissions, and factors most likely to influence a shift towards the use of alternative bus fuels. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E202433.