This podcast discusses the problems with American buses, including their outdated design, discomfort, and hazards. The episode explores the physical and cognitive stressors faced by bus drivers, the challenges of COVID-19 for transit workers, and efforts to redesign buses for safety and efficiency. It also highlights the historical neglect of bus operators and the potential for a new bus design that improves air quality and safety.
Outdated bus designs result in discomfort for passengers and physical strain for bus operators, highlighting the need for a redesign that prioritizes safety and comfort.
The lack of innovation in bus design, influenced by factors like political requirements and cost reduction, has hindered the development of buses that meet the needs of both operators and passengers, but ongoing efforts are being made to rethink bus design and prioritize safety, comfort, and overall well-being.
Deep dives
Outdated bus designs and their impact on passengers and operators
American bus service is known for being inconvenient, unreliable, and uncomfortable. Outdated bus designs result in discomfort for passengers and physical strain for bus operators. The suspension, which dates back to World War II, provides a bumpy ride, and the seats amplify vibrations rather than providing a smooth experience. Bus drivers endure physical wear and tear, leading to high rates of injuries and health issues. Poor visibility, primitive mirrors, and cheaply built structures contribute to pedestrian accidents. These outdated designs have not improved in the past 50 years, resulting in a negative impact on both passengers and operators.
COVID-19 and its impact on bus drivers and transit systems
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted significant challenges for bus operators. Due to poor airflow and ventilation in buses, bus drivers faced a high risk of infection and experienced high rates of morbidity and mortality. Even before COVID-19, transit workers had higher rates of respiratory illnesses, such as COPD, due to the poor air quality in buses. The pandemic prompted the search for solutions to protect bus drivers, leading to the implementation of temporary barriers and positive pressure isolation using fresh air from the front of the bus.
Innovation deficit and challenges in redesigning buses
The lack of innovation in bus design can be attributed to various factors, including the political requirement to purchase American-manufactured buses, which has hindered competition and incentivized minimal innovation by manufacturers. The focus on cost reduction and maximizing seating capacity has led to neglecting the needs of both operators and passengers. However, there are ongoing efforts to rethink bus design, such as the push for battery-electric buses and addressing operational problems like whole body vibration. The aim is to create buses that prioritize safety, comfort, and overall well-being for everyone involved.
The vision of the bus of the future and its potential impact
The bus of the future holds the potential for transformative changes. Improved suspension systems could minimize whole body vibrations for a smoother and more comfortable ride. Redesigned barriers and control systems can enhance safety and visibility for operators. Creating an inviting and enjoyable environment within buses can attract more riders and contribute to reducing environmental impact. Innovative approaches, such as vertical airflow systems and effective air filtration, can enhance passenger safety and mitigate the spread of infectious diseases. By prioritizing innovation and considering the needs of operators, passengers, and the environment, the bus of the future can revolutionize the transit experience.
Buses are an inexpensive and easy-to-deploy form of mass transit that could help reduce traffic congestion and curb air pollution. But in the United States, no one wants to ride them—and for good reason: the design of the American bus has not changed much since World War II. The antiquated design is uncomfortable and creates hazards for riders, drivers, and pedestrians. How could the bus be transformed into a mode of transit that people actually want to use?
On this episode, host Lisa Margonelli talks to Brian Sherlock, a former Seattle bus driver and safety specialist at Amalgamated Transit Union International, the largest public transit union in North America. He explains what’s wrong with American buses, and how a redesign could make for a better urban future.