Austin transit agency orders 197 electric buses

Capital Metro, the transit agency serving Austin, Texas, has approved the purchase of 197 new electric buses, which will expand its zero-emission bus fleet to more than 200 units. The agency’s eventual goal is to convert its entire fleet of more than 400 buses to zero-emission.

The new buses, from Proterra and New Flyer,  support both plug-in and overhead charging, and come with modern features such as USB charging ports and digital displays for passengers. They will replace legacy diesel buses and expand the fleet for the new Expo Center and Pleasant Valley MetroRapid lines.

Austin’s first shipment of e-buses is scheduled to arrive by the end of 2022.

The order includes 26 Proterra ZX5 Max 40-foot buses, each with 675 kWh of energy storage and up to 329 miles of range. This procurement is Capital Metro’s third and largest from Proterra. The agency currently operates 6 Proterra e-buses, and its North Operations electric bus yard uses Proterra Energy’s interoperable charging infrastructure.

“Proterra is proud to deliver our fifth-generation electric bus technology to help Austin realize its goal of 100% zero-emission transportation,” said Josh Ensign, President of Proterra Transit. “Through its embrace of next-generation electric bus technology and charging infrastructure, CapMetro is setting a model for others to follow in the transition to clean, quiet transportation for all.”

New Flyer’s newest electric buses offer “lighter weight, longer range, and better energy recovery than ever before,” said New Flyer President Chris Stoddart.

“Using zero-emissions buses adds to the quality of life of the Austin community,” said District 3 Council Member Pio Renteria. “Once these buses are in service, they will be used for new bus routes in underserved areas of East Austin.”

Sources: Capital Metro, Proterra

Comment
Create Account. Already Registered? Log In

EV Engineering Webinars

The free webinar sessions from our Fall Virtual Conference are now available to view on-demand. Register for a session below to watch the recording and download the presentation.

LOAD MORE SESSIONS

Webinars & Whitepapers

EV Tech Explained