Expections with regard to the acceptance of hybrid vehicles by British bus operators are a bit downgraded by Traction Technology, the company that is preparing to supply hybrid drivelines to Optare.

As a consequence of this development Traction Technology expects a lower revenue growth in 2008. It says that it now doesn't expect the hybrid Versa, being developed with Optare to be completed before the end of June. It states it as unlikely that it will be requested to supply its hybrid power pack system for a minimum of 10 vehicles to Optare under the Memorandum of Understanding announced last November. 'While a number of other potential orders and business opportunities are being pursued, these are unlikely to lead to significant revenues in 2008,' says the company. In response to the reduction in forecast trading activities, the company has implemented a range of measures to reduce costs while retaining its core skills. Traction Technology designs and manufactures hybrid power packs for the transport industry. With increasing pressure to reduce emissions, transport operators are now seriously considering alternatives to the standard diesel engine. Hybrid technologies are an increasingly effective option for inner city stop/start applications, the company expects.