New buses haven't reduced heat complaints on Ljubljana public transport

Despite introducing new buses, Ljubljana's public transport operator LPP has recorded the same number of passenger complaints regarding heat as last year. This suggests that the new fleet has not significantly alleviated issues with onboard temperatures during hot weather. Both public transport providers in the city acknowledge that extreme heat places a considerable strain on air conditioning systems, particularly affecting older vehicles. Passengers frequently report discomfort due to overheating on buses and trains, even when equipped with climate control. LPP emphasizes that all its buses are fitted with air conditioning or ventilation systems, and the fleet has been recently updated with 38 new vehicles. Nevertheless, the number of heat-related complaints received by the end of July remained at 126, identical to the same period last year. The operator attributes potential individual malfunctions to the continuous, maximum-capacity operation of air conditioning units during heatwaves. LPP assures that they investigate every complaint, perform technical checks, and replace buses if necessary. They also conduct additional on-site checks of air conditioning systems before morning departures. The company denies limiting air conditioning for energy conservation, stating its primary purpose is to ensure passenger comfort. Issues are reportedly more common in older buses, where climate control systems are more susceptible to wear and tear from age and prolonged use. External factors like high ambient temperatures, passenger load, and frequent door openings also impact cooling efficiency. Additionally, the practice of turning off diesel engines at terminal stops, a legal requirement, can cause vehicles to heat up faster while stationary, prolonging the subsequent cooling period.