Think the Volvo Hybrids serve their purpose on the Angel, if I'm honest. The start-stop nature of the route means that the buses are never going too fast to start with.
Let's not forget that, if Go North East so wished, they could have opted for Volvo B9TLs at the same price they got the Volvo B5LHs for. The Green Bus Fund made up the difference between a Volvo B9TL and a Volvo B5LH. They clearly thought the Hybrid would cope (and I'd argue they do cope?)
Can't deny that, as an enthusiast, I would have a Volvo B9 over a Volvo B5 every day of the week, but if it got them some good PR..!
RE: Go North East: 2014/15 Financial Year Order Predictions