CapMetro buses stressed out by heat

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Hot temperatures are putting a strain on Capital Metro buses and it could be affecting performance, passenger
comfort and even fuel efficiency.

Some vehicles have mechanics working overtime making trying to minimize passenger discomfort and keep them on schedule .

And the company garage is staying pretty busy this time of year. As temperatures increase, so do mechanical failures. Batteries go out. Radiators overheats. And, even worse for commuters who've already boarded, sometimes the air conditioner goes out.

"Particularly the AC system really takes a toll in the summer," said Misty Whited of CapMetro, "Because not only does the AC have to be on, and (it has to) be cranked up pretty high".

Overtaxed mechanical and hydraulics systems aren't the only concern. Hotter days also burn a hole in fuel budgets.

"During the summer, we see fuel mileage go down about 10 percent just because of the harsher operating environment," Whited said.

CapMetro has been testing a new hydrogen hybrid bus in this hot weather, but runs limited hours and only around the University of Texas campus.

As for the results, Whited said it's too soon to tell.