The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (SDMTS) has awarded New Flyer of America Inc. a contract for six battery-electric, heavy-duty transit buses.
The 40-foot, zero-emission Xcelsior CHARGE buses are equipped with 480 kW batteries, on-board video surveillance systems, enhanced wheelchair restraint systems with forward-facing safety barriers and electric air conditioning. The buses are expected to arrive in 2019 and will be tested along various existing routes as part of MTS’ zero-emission pilot program, supporting California Climate Action goals.
The purchase was supported by state grants, California’s cap-and-trade program, and the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. The MTS board of directors unanimously approved the purchase earlier this year, which also includes nine depot chargers from New Flyer.
“New Flyer is proud to offer zero-emission solutions for the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System,” comments Wayne Joseph, president of New Flyer of America. “We are thrilled to continue partnering with California transit agencies in pursuit of cleaner air and environmental preservation, and we commend MTS on its climate leadership through continued commitment to delivering emission-free solutions to San Diego and the surrounding community.”
The San Diego MTS operates bus and trolley routes that deliver over 90 million rides per year. It has also deployed other alternative fueling including compressed natural gas and propane autogas.
“We’re pleased to introduce New Flyer’s zero-emission technology to the San Diego region and to compare its performance, capabilities and charging infrastructure with our existing low-emissions fleet,” says Paul Jablonksi, CEO of MTS.
