FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 10, 2021

MEDIA CONTACT:
Maureen McCarthy
Whatcom Transportation Authority
maureenm@ridewta.com
360-788-9303
http://www.ridewta.com

Whatcom Transporation Authority's First Two Zero-Emission Buses Arrive in Whatcom County

Whatcom Transporation Authority (WTA) has been fielding calls and questions on social media, regarding sightings of big, blue, new, 100% electric buses on local Whatcom County roads. While not yet in service, these buses are out and about as WTA Transit Drivers get trained on how to operate them. These are WTA’s first two zero-emission electric buses, and they’ll soon be serving transit routes throughout Whatcom County.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xs-T_qjaz4Q

WTA received eighty percent of the funding for these buses through a “Low or No Emissions Bus Program” grant from the Federal Transit Administration, submitted in 2018. In addition to two electric buses, the grant funded the purchase and installation of two electric bus chargers.

With a battery capacity of 444 kWh, WTA anticipates these buses’ range to be 150 miles, with an energy usage of 2.3 kWh per mile. The buses can be fully charged in under four hours. They feature a direct-drive traction motor and use energy recovered from a regenerative braking system. The buses seat 36 passengers, with a total capacity of 75. Like the rest of WTA’s fleet, they are built on a low floor platform manufactured by GILLIG. In addition to allowing for safer, faster, and easier boarding for passengers, this creates efficiencies in training (both for Transit Operators and Fleet Mechanics), as well as in the inventory of parts.

WTA’s most recent Strategic Plan calls for the agency to protect and preserve the environment by reducing its net carbon output. The plan sets clear direction for WTA to pursue alternative fuels and cleaner sources of energy. WTA’s Board Chair and Bellingham City Council Member Michael Lilliquist said, “Transitioning to zero-emission buses is part of a long-term vision. These electric buses support safe, reliable service for riders while reducing greenhouse gasses, and improving air quality for everyone.” 

Electric buses are expected to enter service in June of 2021.  For a short video, click here.

WTA provides fixed route, paratransit, rural dial-a-ride, and vanpool service in Whatcom County, Washington. WTA’s mission is to enhance our community by delivering safe, reliable, efficient and friendly service. For route and schedule information, call (360) 676-7433 or visit www.ridewta.com.


        We acknowledge that Whatcom County is located on the unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples. They cared for the lands that included what we’d call the Puget Sound region, Vancouver Island and British Columbia since time immemorial. This gives us the great obligation and opportunity to learn how to care for our surrounding areas and all the natural and human resources we require to live. We express our deepest respect and gratitude for our indigenous neighbors, the Lummi Nation and Nooksack Tribe, for their enduring care and protection of our shared lands and waterways.
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