Phoenix has taken a significant step towards becoming more environmentally conscious with the recent rollout of its first group of hybrid buses. These vehicles, a blend of hybrid-electric motors and batteries complemented by a biodiesel engine, debuted on the city streets with a nod towards achieving a zero-emissions bus fleet by 2040. With improved fuel economy and reduced pollution, these hybrids are a quieter, more efficient mode of transportation.
In a bold move aiming to reduce the city's carbon footprint, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego hailed the introduction of the green buses, stating, "Phoenix is proud to lead the charge towards a greener future where our residents can breathe cleaner air while getting them to their destinations." As informed by the City of Phoenix's official newsroom, the mayor shared her excitement over these buses serving the community while steering the city towards sustainability.
The New Flyer Xcelsior Hybrid-Electric bus, now operating in Phoenix, offers accommodations for 35 passengers, which, with maximum standing capacity, goes up to 53, and includes three wheelchair areas. According to the city's public transit department, these new additions to the fleet come with a driving range that exceeds 500 miles, setting a higher standard for public transit comfort and efficiency.
Jesús Sapien, the Public Transit Director, recognized the importance of reliable transportation, particularly when it translates into a boon for the environment. "We do our best to serve our riders with a reliable public transit service to get them where they need to go," he told the City of Phoenix's official newsroom, acknowledging the enhanced service provision due to cleaner energy buses. The current fleet includes 500 heavy-duty buses that leverage alternative fuels such as natural gas and biodiesel.
Back in August 2022, the Federal Transit Administration supported Phoenix's green transit initiative, awarding a grant tailored for low and no-emissions buses. The grant will aid in replacing older models with new battery electric and hydrogen fuel-cell buses and expanding infrastructure, signifying further steps towards an eco-friendlier urban transport system. Such advancements are part of Phoenix's larger transit strategy under Transportation 2050 (T2050), which is funded by several sources including a local sales tax passed in 2015. For more updates, follow @PhoenixMetroBus or search for the hashtag #HybridElectricBuses on social platforms.
