February 29, 2012
Saluki Express adds three hybrid buses
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Southern Illinois University Carbondale is getting greener than ever.
The campus took another step toward sustainability this week when the Saluki Express mass transit system put three hybrid buses on the road. According to Bill Bruns, deputy director of the Student Center, the University’s latest contract with Beck Bus Transportation included a provision that the company would add gas/electric hybrids to its campus fleet. The buses recently arrived and drivers received training before the first hybrid ran today (Feb. 29) on the Grand Avenue route.
“SIU Carbondale took a big green leap forward on Leap Day,” Bruns said. “We know having those buses on the road is going to save a lot of fuel and help the environment too through lower emissions.”
Bruns said they will be testing the hybrid buses on various routes to determine which route usage is most beneficial. It’s easy to spot the new hybrid buses though. The “Saluki Express” name on the side is in green rather than the usual University maroon.
The new buses are very comfortable and have the same amenities as the other buses, he said.
You can track the new hybrid buses and all of the rest of the fleet through TransLoc at www.siuc.transloc.com or by downloading the apps there that let you do the tracking via a smart phone.
For more information about Saluki Express, its routes and services, visit the website at www.studentcenter.siu.edu/salukiexpress.