The roar of jet engines has long been the signature of airports for travelers, but ground support vehicles are a more subtle form of pollution that has been a recurring issue. Diesel-powered airside buses, baggage tugs, and other such vehicles have consistently released exhaust fumes into the air that both passengers and staff eventually cannot avoid onsite. The use of electric standing buses, however, is doing a great job at lowering this regional pollution, and is a major component of a broader global movement towards greener, more sustainable modes of transportation.
Climate-First Benefits
The eco-friendly benefits of electric buses vehicles can often be immediate and substantial for organizations. Unlike their diesel fuel predecessors, battery-powered buses produce virtually no tailpipe emissions. This directly eliminates many of the harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). Both of which are responsible for causing significant health issues to locals of that particular area. Airports, with their often higher density of ground handling vehicles and confined spaces, are particularly vulnerable to the downsides poor air quality. The transition to battery powered fleets at major international air travels hubs like Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) demonstrates a clear pathway towards mitigating many of these risks. Since 2013, HKIA has been methodically electrifying its airside fleet, with an end goal of having over 1,300 electric vehicle chargers to support the transition by the year 2030, according to their sustainability reports.
In addition to improving local air quality, electric buses can drastically lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Data shows that electric buses still significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, even though the full “well-to-wheel” lifecycle emissions of an electric vehicle rely on the electricity source. According to a study cited by Green Mobility Magazine, when using the current electricity grid mix in the European Union, electric buses can reduce lifetime greenhouse gas emissions by up to 63% when compared to diesel buses. If powered entirely by renewable energy, the reductions could reach 92%. They are therefore an essential weapon in the battle against climate change. The advantages of electric buses reach deep into our cities and go well beyond the boundaries of the airport. The widespread adoption of electric public transportation has innate benefits for the environment and local residents.
Quieter Environments
Diesel buses are well-known for their rumbling, loud engines, which can consistently keep up the noise pollution in cities. Chronic noise exposure has been connected by the World Health Organization to a number of identifiable health problems, such as elevated stress, disturbed sleep, and even cardiovascular issues in some cases. In contrast, electric buses run with a nearly silent hum – especially when idle – significantly lowering noise levels in more crowded areas and fostering a peaceful environment for commuters and locals. Electric buses assist cities in achieving noise levels below WHO-recommended thresholds, according to a study by Innovation News Network.
Economic Benefits
The economic argument for electric buses is becoming an increasingly compelling element. While the upfront cost of an electric bus is often more than that of a regular diesel bus, the long-term savings are considerable. Electric buses have lower “fuel” costs, as electricity is generally cheaper and overall less volatile in price than diesel fuel. Another key advantage is the significantly reduced maintenance required. An electric motor has far fewer moving parts than an internal combustion engine, leading to less wear and tear and fewer costly repairs.
The tide is turning rapidly towards electric buses worldwide! In Europe, the number of zero-emissions bus models registered increased by 53% in 2023 and 42% of all new city buses were certified zero-emission, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA). In the United States, CALSTART reported a 12% increase in zero-emission bus registrations in 2023. While these numbers show a trend, they also tell a commitment by both government agencies and private companies to fund a greener, sustainable future.
Partnering for Eco-Friendly GSE
Environmental stewardship and operational efficiency are top of mind, therefore, DINOBUS is the best ground support equipment (GSE) partner for airports seeking to be progressive. Our sustainable bus models use the same zero-emission technology that is clearing air and noise pollution off of our city streets. We provide a solution for sustainable airports to confront environmental concerns, that is unlike the traditional fuel buses. Our zero tailpipe buses reduces environmental liabilities for airports with ambitious plans for air quality, and healthier passengers and employees. To top it off, our buses cause less over maintenance, reducing range anxiety down to a minimum. DINOBUS as a GSE provider has won over major airports, and your location could be the next addition to our partnership. Contact us today to begin working on a solution.