Letter: Switched on to electric buses

Sir: It is good to see a revival of discussion about electric road vehicles. In placing the emphasis on private cars and goods delivery vehicles, however, buses have been overlooked as a suitable potential application for electric power. A visit to Oxford will demonstrate just how suitable it can be.

For a number of months a circular route serving the railway station, city centre and main university area has been operating with electric buses. The scheme has the backing of the local authority and electricity company. Apart from the source of power, the buses are otherwise standard midi-size buses of the sort used in towns and cities throughout the country. Recharging is undertaken at a special point installed on the pavement at the headstop outside the railway station.

As an occasional user, I can vouch for the fact that the vehicles provide a fully satisfactory service in terms of speed and comfort.

Yours faithfully,

PETER WEST

London, SE26

2 July