Question No: 2024/4303
Question (Thomas Turrell AM): 19th December 2024
Can the Mayor please clarify TfL’s policy for bus drivers switching off engines when waiting in traffic?
Answer (Sadiq Khan): 23rd December 2024
Bus engines provide power to essential equipment needed to run a safe, effective and comfortable service for customers, such as ticket machines, communication devices and heating. For this reason, while modern vehicles do have automatic engine cut-out technology, some do need to remain running while waiting in traffic.
To limit noise, minimise emissions and avoid unnecessary fuel consumption, bus drivers are instructed to switch off their engines at the earliest opportunity when they are not in service, such as on a bus stand or when parked in a bus station.
