New Phoenix hybrid-electric bus, stopped by a shaded bus stop on Central Avenue in Downtown Phoenix.
First Group of Phoenix Public Transit Hybrid Buses Hit the Road
As the Phoenix Public Transit Department continues working toward its zero-emissions bus fleet goal by 2040, the first group of hybrid buses have passed all tests and are now running on Phoenix roads. 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.
“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. “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. ?
“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.”
Currently, Phoenix Public Transit has a fleet of 500 heavy-duty buses that run on alternative fuels, includ?ing 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. The grant is being used to replace aging buses with battery electric and hydrogen fuel-cell buses, install new infrastructure, and assist in workforce development to maintain newer bus fleets.
About the Phoenix Public Transit Department: The Phoenix Public Transit Department provides Phoenix residents a variety of transit options and is the largest member of the Valley Metro regional transit system. Services range from local and commuter buses to alternative transportation for senior citizens and special needs. The City of Phoenix funds public transit, and other transportation improvements, through Transportation 2050 (T2050) – a local sales tax approved by Phoenix voters in 2015 – as well as county and federal funds. T2050 allows for enhanced bus service, transit-related technology improvements and fare media upgrades under the leadership of the Citizens Transportation Commission.
