The Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions at Duke University has developed a new decision-support model that allows bus fleet managers and transit specialists to determine the best-cost alternatives for reducing fleet emissions.
Called “Best Bus,” the model calculates the life cycle costs and life cycle emissions for either a full or partial fleet, and enables the user to compare the costs and benefits for different bus fuels and bus types on the market today, such as hybrids and clean natural gas. The model allows the user to alter any input entered, including the number of buses, average speed and current fuel prices, to yield case-specific results.
The model can be downloaded free from the Nicholas Institute's Web site.
