Greener buses appear on city's roads

Hybrid power and electric buses will be used in York for three months to test air pollution reductions, although they could become a permanent feature on the roads if the scheme proves a success. The four buses – one electric Optare Solo minibus and three diesel-electric hybrid Volvo double-deckers – will be used on the route between the city centre and the park-and-ride site at the designer outlet on the city's outskirts, adding to existing services.

They were unveiled by Councillor Steve Galloway, left, York Council's executive member for city strategy on York Council, and Dave Alexander, regional managing director for bus operator First yesterday.

Coun Galloway said: 'One of the advantages of the vehicles is that they are more economical than conventional buses, generally quieter and critically emit fewer emissions, helping to address those roads which have air quality problems.'

The trials are part of a strategy to reduce traffic congestion and cut air pollution, linked to an estimated 158 premature deaths in York each year.