When should bus engines be shut down?

Bus engines should be shut down during recovery time in loops and terminals to conserve fuel, reduce emissions, and minimize noise pollution. This practice also helps ensure the safety and comfort of passengers and employees by reducing the environmental impact of idling engines. When the bus is stationary for extended periods, like at terminal loops or while awaiting the next scheduled run, turning off the engine is an effective way to maintain operational efficiency and adhere to environmental standards.

While driving, the engine needs to remain on to power the vehicle safely and efficiently. Shutting down the engine at every stop, such as regular passenger pick-ups and drop-offs, is impractical since it would delay the service and increase the complexity of operations. Similarly, only turning off the engine during inspections does not address routine idle management practices essential for daily operations and environmental considerations.