14 DAY TRIAL // News from the UK tells us that as many as four electric buses built by a British manufacturer are currently undergoing trials in London, the country's capital city.
The four Optare MetroCity electric vehicles, one of which is pictured next to this article, were introduced as part of the Mayor's plans to soon have central London accommodate for zero-emissions single-deckers alone.
As detailed by Green Car Congress, the introduction of these buses is expected to help turn central London into a so-called Ultra Low Emission Zone by the year 2020.
Information shared with the public says that buses are currently being trialed on route H98, between Hayes and Hounslow. When fully charged, they can cover distances of up to 100 miles (roughly 161 kilometers).
Still, it's important to note that this driving range very much depends on environmental conditions and traffic. Thus, the buses might one day run out of power either long before or sometime after completing these 100 miles.
The vehicles' manufacturer explains that, when completely out of power, the buses take five hours to fully charge if plugged into a regular socket. Fast-charge technology can get them up and running again in just two hours.
All in all, the city of London in the UK currently accommodates for six operational electric buses. Should things go according to plan, two more will be put to work in this urban area sometime later this year.