With
a goal of producing an easily maintainable, efficient bus, the Automation
Alley has partnered with Altair Engineering to design and construct
one Advanced Technology Demonstration Vehicle, or city transit bus.
By
incorporating the needs of the drivers and riders, the proposed bus
will be lighter and shorter than current designs, all while seating
additional passengers that will translate into significantly improved
fuel economy. The new bus is expected to have reduced fuel consumption;
reduced wear on city streets and regional roadways; reduced brake,
tire and component wear; and less noise and pollution.
It
is expected that the prototype bus will be available in 2010.
The
BUSolutions project will address the many challenges and concerns
related to urban transit systems.
Transit
Property Challenges