DUBAI 9 July 2017: Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched the test run of a VDL bus – the first bus to join RTA fleet compatible with the European Emissions Standards (Euro 6). Such buses are characterized by their light weight and low fuel consumption.
“RTA attaches high priority to conserving the environment and optimizing power consumption as Safety & Environmental Sustainability is part and parcel of RTA’s strategic goals. The trial operation of the new VDL Bus signals RTA’s keenness to revamp its public bus fleet to keep pace with the top practices worldwide and offer top of the range services to public transport riders in Dubai,” said Al Tayer.
RTA will put the new bus on a trial operation for six months to assess the economic feasibility and environmental benefits of its operation. It would also examine the reduction in carbon emission rate, engine efficiency, and maintenance cost among other perimeters.
Al Tayer inspected the new VDL bus and attended a briefing about the technical specifications of the bus.
- It weighs about 9,650 KG, which is remarkably lower than the weight of the older model of VDL bus being 11,200 KG.
- The new bus has a seating capacity of 45 riders whereas the older version has seats for 34 riders.
- The new bus has an improved fuel efficiency at a rate ranging from 10 to 15% and a lower carbon emission rate, which brings the carbon footprint of the new bus to the barest minimum to match the highest European standards.
- It has a low-floor entry to facilitate the movement of the People of Determination.
- It also has high-class finishing standards with wide seats offering full convenience to riders.
By Rajive Sngh