(09 Dec 2014, 5:35 pm)aureolin wrote I guess the other option is to look at different technology. Stagecoach and Arriva having both turned to GAS buses, with the former looking likely (in my opinion) to make Sunderland 100% GAS over the next few years.
I wonder what the actual cost saving is between GAS and a conventional diesel bus. Perhaps it's enough for it to benefit GNE with some of their local work, e.g. Gateshead's Orbit and Loop routes. Maybe even the Quaylink too?
I have no doubt that Go North East would invest into environmentally-friendly buses (such as gas buses) if there was another round of the Green Bus Fund.
Whilst Stagecoach may be more likely to invest into gas buses by themselves due to the association with ADL they have, I don't think Arriva or Go North East would. The upfront cost would be hard to justify the capital expenditure for, when buying for local work such as the Orbit and Loop.