CTDOT announces return of Connecticut’s battery electric buses

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has announced the return of battery electric buses (BEB) to CTtransit’s service as of 31 July 2023. This move is part of Connecticut’s ambitious plan to decarbonise its entire bus fleet by 2035, aiming to combat air pollution and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, leading to a greener and healthier future for the state’s residents.

CTtransit’s BEBs have been out of service since July 2022 due to a thermal event triggered by a design defect, which had led to a national recall by the manufacturer. Following the necessary repairs to address the issue, these buses are now ready to resume operations.

“The return of these battery electric buses is part of Connecticut’s comprehensive effort to improve the quality of life in Connecticut by keeping our air clean,” said CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “These buses operate in areas that are disproportionately burdened by air pollution, and removing diesel emissions is vital to the health and wellbeing of all our residents. In addition to having no emissions, these buses are quieter, provide a smoother ride and have lower maintenance costs than diesel vehicles.”

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The safe return of BEBs to service required close collaboration between CTDOT, bus manufacturer New Flyer, charger manufacturer ABB and CTtransit. The teams worked on enhanced training and procedures for operators, maintenance personnel, and charging unit staff. Furthermore, they improved the battery thermal management systems and monitoring software to ensure the utmost safety and efficiency.

To guarantee the reliability of these electric buses, each one has undergone rigorous inspections and comprehensive road testing. The tests evaluated the effectiveness of the system updates and enhancements, ensuring that the battery electric buses are fully ready to meet the demands of Connecticut’s extensive public transportation network.

With the re-introduction of battery electric buses, Connecticut takes a significant stride towards achieving its sustainable transportation goals, setting an example for other regions to follow. By embracing eco-friendly solutions and prioritising cleaner air and a healthier environment, Connecticut is paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future for its residents.