The first solar bus in the city of Lhasa has passed inspection and recently been put into use. Since the 27 all-electric buses began to carry passengers in July, by this time solar buses have proven as a breakthrough development.

The exterior of the new solar bus is exactly like those previously applied all-electric buses, the only difference is on its roof. With 32 solar photovoltaic panels on the roof the bus is able to run on electric energy transferred from solar energy. The bus driver can monitor the charge from his operator panel.

Based on the regular period of time of sunlight in Lhasa this solar bus will be able to run without electric charging. As long as the bus is running under the sunlight it will be charged. In the winter time, if the sunlight is not strong enough to keep it running, the bus still can switch to battery power.

Compared with regular buses, although a solar bus has a higher purchasing price, its operating cost is quite low. Once the bus is fully charged it is able to run for 260 kilometers. Moreover, solar buses are much more environmentally friendly, and the application of these green public vehicles will make a great contribution to the environmental protection of Lhasa.