Sensitivity in the operation of conventional and alternatively fuelled public service vehicles on Merseyside

Abstract

This paper compares the sensitivity in the operation of conventional and alternatively fuelled Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) in operation across Merseyside. Each fuel is compared on a life cycle assessment (LCA) basis, with the addition of landfill gas (LFG) as a viable alternative. On a complete life cycle basis, LFG powered vehicles compare favourably with gas-powered vehicles and generally cause less pollution than the liquid-fuel powered vehicles, with electric vehicles generally producing the least pollution overall. In the majority of cases, the sensitivity analysis has revealed that the most significant stage in the life cycles of each fuel and vehicle is the end-use (fuel combustion) stage. In some cases this stage alone contributes to 90% of the total life cycle emissions. Daily and annual changes in vehicle operation have a large influence on the amount of pollution released into the atmosphere.