The UK is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% by 2050, relative to 1990 levels. For this to happen, the UK needs to shift more towards low-carbon energy supplies, including road transport.

We decided to put together an infographic to visualise the current greenhouse gas problem, what’s being done about it and how the Orion E will help contribute to cleaner air. 

The UK’s Green Transport & Air Quality Agenda

Transport accounts for around a quarter of UK greenhouse gas emissions and affects air quality at the roadside.

On average transport is responsible for 80% of Nitrogen Dioxide (NOx) emissions at the roadside in areas where we need to act to reduce levels.

Clean Air Zones

To bring the UK into legal compliance and to reduce concentrations of nitrogen dioxide below 40 µg/m3, Clean Air Zones will be introduced in five cities;  Birmingham, Leeds, Southampton, Nottingham and Derby.” Visualise this – map highlighting the cities as hot spots. NOx 40 µg/m3 should be highlighted, overlaid over map possibly with lines/arrows pointing to the city hotspots

Old diesel buses, coaches, taxis and lorries will be charged, but newer vehicles that meet the latest emissions standards will not need to pay.

London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)

From September 2020, all vehicles will need to meet Ultra Low Emission Zone standards, or pay a daily charge, when travelling in central London.
 
The ULEZ will go someway in tackling the estimated 9,400 deaths in London per year attributed to air quality related illness.” Visualise this
Heading: “The Orion E: Driving the Green Transport & Air Quality Agenda

The Orion E is the world’s first fully electric zero emission, low floor bus. The Orion E meets the needs of operators and authorities, particularly in busy towns and cities where there are green transport and air quality agendas to meet.

• Zero-emissions
• 100 mile range
• 100 minutes recharging time
• 2.2 metres wide
• Low floor single step entry
• Configurable seating up to 16 passengers

Potential Transport Applications of the Orion E

The Orion E isn’t just a bus. It has the flexibility for other applications such as inner-city parcel deliveries, library vehicles, emergency support vehicles, removal vehicles and utility vehicles.

• Delivery vehicles
• Library vehicles
• Emergency support vehicles
• Removal vehicles
• Utility vehicles (gas, electric, water)

The Bottom Line

Clean air is vital for people’s health and the environment, essential for making sure towns and cities are welcoming places for people to live and work, and to our prosperity. Zero emission vehicles such as the Orion E will contribute significantly to reducing the UK’s greenhouse emissions and improving air quality for the sake of our planet, health and well being.