VEHICLE DESIGN

The WWU Hybrid Bus Team is designing a low floor, modular bus, capable of a supporting a variety of applications. The goals are to reduce fuel use and operating costs while improving driver control and passenger comfort. Plans are to use sustainable materials with a high strength-to-weight ratio for chassis, body and interior components, combined with an aerodynamic body design. The powertrain will utilize a diesel-electric powersplit hybrid system, which will allow both the diesel engine and electric motors to propel the bus. Non-petroleum based fuels are targeted for the IC engine.

Base Specifications · Length = 24 ft (7.3 m) · Width = 8 ft (2.4 m) · Height = 8.5 ft (2.6 m) · Curb Weight = 8000 lbs (3630 kg) · Gross Vehicle Weight = 12300 lbs (5580 kg)
	Modular Seating Capability Ambulatory + Wheelchair + Driver 16 + 0 + 1 12 + 2 + 1 7 + 4 + 1

Materials
The team is currently targeting a thermoplastic composite material called Twintex. The material contains comingled strands of fiberglass and polypropylene (PP) woven together into a fabric. Compared to other composite materials such as carbon fiber, Twintex is more readily recyclable, and a more cost effective solution.

Hybrid Bus Project Brochure