Bus (Otobüs)
A bus (plural: buses/busses) is a public transport vehicle designed to carry many passengers. Buses are commonly used in urban areas for scheduled services, but are also employed for longer-distance coach services.
History and Etymology
The term "bus" is a clipped form of "omnibus," which originates from the Latin word "omnis," meaning "all." The "omnibus" was first introduced in Nantes, France, in 1826 by Stanislas Baudry. Baudry had previously established a successful public bathhouse, and the omnibus was initially intended to transport customers between the city center and his bathhouse. The name was derived from a hat shop located near the omnibus stop, called "Omnes Omnibus." The concept quickly spread, and by the 1830s, omnibuses were operating in major cities like Paris, London, and New York.
Types of Buses
Buses come in various types, each designed for specific purposes and routes:
- City Bus (Urban Bus): These buses are designed for use in urban areas, featuring frequent stops and typically low floors for easy access. They often include features like standing room and priority seating for elderly and disabled passengers.
- Coach (Intercity Bus/Motorcoach): Coaches are designed for longer-distance travel, providing more comfortable seating, luggage storage, and sometimes onboard amenities like restrooms and entertainment systems. Coach (olarak da bilinir).
- School Bus: School buses are specifically designed for transporting students to and from school. They are typically painted yellow for high visibility and equipped with safety features like flashing lights and stop arms.
- Minibus: Minibuses are smaller buses designed to carry fewer passengers, often used for shuttle services or in areas with narrow roads.
- Double-Decker Bus: These buses have two levels, allowing them to carry a large number of passengers within a single vehicle footprint. They are popular in cities like London and Hong Kong.
- Articulated Bus (Bendy Bus): These buses have two or more rigid sections linked by a pivoting joint, allowing them to navigate tight corners while maintaining a high passenger capacity.
- Trolleybus: Trolleybuses are electrically powered buses that draw power from overhead wires. They are typically used in cities with a commitment to sustainable transportation.
- Guided Bus: Guided buses use specialized guidance systems, such as optical or mechanical guidance, to navigate designated routes. These systems can improve safety and efficiency in congested areas.
Propulsion Systems
Buses are powered by various types of engines and propulsion systems:
- Diesel Engines: Traditionally, most buses have been powered by diesel engines. However, due to increasing concerns about air pollution, there is a growing shift towards alternative fuels and technologies.
- Compressed Natural Gas (CNG): CNG buses are powered by natural gas, which produces lower emissions than diesel engines.
- Hybrid Electric Buses: These buses combine a diesel or gasoline engine with an electric motor and battery pack, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
- Electric Buses: Electric buses are powered solely by batteries and produce zero tailpipe emissions. They are becoming increasingly popular in urban areas with a focus on sustainability.
- Hydrogen Fuel Cell Buses: These buses use hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, producing only water vapor as a byproduct.
Accessibility
Modern buses are increasingly designed with accessibility in mind to accommodate passengers with disabilities:
- Low-Floor Buses: These buses have a low floor height, making it easier for passengers to board and exit.
- Ramps and Lifts: Many buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to provide access for wheelchair users.
- Priority Seating: Buses typically have priority seating designated for elderly and disabled passengers.
- Audio and Visual Announcements: Buses often feature audio and visual announcements to provide information about stops and routes.
Environmental Impact
Buses play a significant role in reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality in urban areas. By carrying a large number of passengers, buses can reduce the number of individual vehicles on the road, thereby decreasing emissions and fuel consumption. The adoption of alternative fuels and electric buses further reduces the environmental impact of public transportation.
Bus Technology
Advances in technology have significantly impacted the design and operation of buses:
- GPS Tracking: GPS tracking systems allow transit authorities to monitor the location and performance of buses in real-time.
- Automatic Passenger Counters (APCs): APCs automatically count the number of passengers boarding and alighting at each stop, providing valuable data for route planning and optimization.
- Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS): ITS technologies, such as real-time passenger information systems and traffic management systems, can improve the efficiency and reliability of bus services.
- Autonomous Buses: Autonomous buses are being developed and tested in various locations around the world. These buses have the potential to improve safety, reduce operating costs, and enhance the accessibility of public transportation.
Notable Bus Manufacturers
See Also