The Capital Metro Board of Directors on Monday approved the purchase of 197 new electric buses, which the agency said is the largest electric vehicle procurement in U.S. history.
“Today’s announcement is a major milestone for CapMetro as we strive to provide safe, clean and equitable transportation for our community for generations to come,” said Cap Metro President and CEO Randy Clarke on Monday. “Public transportation has a bright future in Central Texas as we continue to bring Project Connect to life in the coming years. With this electric bus procurement, we are showing our dedication to a cleaner tomorrow.”
The new buses will include various amenities such as USB charging ports, plug-in and overhead charging, and an open seating floor plan and passenger digital display.
The electric buses, which are being manufactured by Proterra and New Flyer, will replace regular buses and expand the fleet for the new Expo Center and Pleasant Valley MetroRapid line.
“Proterra is incredibly proud to build on our strong partnership with CapMetro and deliver our newest, fifth-generation electric bus technology to help Austin realize its important goal of 100% zero-emission transportation,” said Josh Ensign, president of Proterra Transit. “Through its embrace of next-generation electric bus technology and charging infrastructure, CapMetro is setting a model for others to follow in the transition to clean, quiet transportation for all.”
The first shipment is scheduled to arrive by the end of 2022.
