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Introduction of Diesel-Electric Buses Into Orange County, California

15 December 2000

Statement Regarding Introduction of Diesel-Electric Buses Into Orange County, California

    WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 Today's delivery of advanced
technology, hybrid electric-diesel buses in Santa Ana marks an important
milestone for clean air, diesel technology and public transportation.  This
new hybrid electric-diesel bus adds another dimension to advanced clean diesel
technology as a clean air and public transport solution in California.
    The hybrid buses are powered by Cummins ISB-270 diesel engines outfitted
with a catalyzed soot filter, mated to an electric hybrid propulsion system
produced by General Motors' Allison Transmission Division.  This technology
combines the inherent benefits of the latest, cleanest and most efficient
diesel technology coupled with an advanced and innovative hybrid propulsion
system.  These kinds of hybrid electric-diesel buses will be integrated
seamlessly into existing diesel-based bus fleets, making maximum use of the
existing investments in fueling infrastructure and maintenance practices.
    The widespread use of diesel engines in the nation's public transportation
fleet is well documented -- across the country each day 14 million Americans
use public transit buses to get to their jobs, schools and home, and more than
95% of the nation's public bus fleet are powered by diesel engines.
    GM, Cummins and other Forum member companies are committed to the
continuous development of the most cost-effective, reliable, efficient, safe
and low-emitting source of power for public transport and hundreds of other
applications-advanced clean diesel engines.
    The Diesel Technology Forum brings together the diesel industry, the broad
diesel user community, civic and public interest leaders, government
regulators, academics, scientists, the petroleum refining industry, and public
health researchers, to encourage the exchange of information, ideas,
scientific findings, and points-of-view related to the current and future use
of diesel power technology.
    Members of the Forum include Caterpillar, Cummins, General Motors, Robert
Bosch Corporation, Detroit Diesel, Donaldson, ExxonMobil, Eaton Corporation,
Komatsu America, Associates Commercial, Delco Remy, Honeywell International,
Kemp Manufacturing, Wabash Technologies, Twin Disc, Stahl Speciality,
JCBamford Excavators, L.E. Jones Company, Metalcraft of Mayville, Morton
Metalcraft, G.W. Lisk, Dupage Products Group, Boley Tool and Machine Works,
Helio Precision Products, Royal Oak Industries