Phoenix public transit hybrid buses offer a better way to do public transit
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Officials at the Phoenix Public Transit Department continue to work toward its zero-emissions bus fleet goal by 2040 as the first group of hybrid buses have passed all tests and are now running on Phoenix roads, City Hall officials report.
The buses use a combination of a hybrid-electric motor and batteries and a biodiesel-fueled engine, meaning they have a higher fuel economy, pollute less, and drive more quietly and efficiently, according to a press release.
“Phoenix is proud to lead the charge towards a greener future where our residents can breathe cleaner air while getting them to their destinations,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said in a prepared statement.
“As we aim to be the most sustainable desert city in the world, we are doing our part to cut emissions, adopt the latest technology, and encourage residents to make climate-conscious decisions. I’m excited to see our brand-new buses hit the road to serve Phoenicians.”
The New Flyer Xcelsior Hybrid-Electric bus can accommodate 35 passengers (53 with maximum standing capacity), has three wheelchair areas, and has a driving range of more than 500 miles, the release states.
“We do our best to serve our riders with a reliable public transit service to get them where they need to go,” said Public Transit Director Jesús Sapien. “And providing cleaner energy buses to our existing fleet is yet another way we are adding to that service.”
Phoenix Public Transit has a fleet of 500 heavy-duty buses that run on alternative fuels, including natural gas and biodiesel. In August 2022, the Federal Transit Administration awarded Phoenix Public Transit a grant for low and no-emissions buses and supporting infrastructure.
