Battery Electric Buses to Return to Service on Connecticut’s Roadways

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced today that battery electric buses (BEB) operated by CTtransit will return to service this coming Monday, July 31, 2023.

Connecticut is planning to decarbonize its entire bus fleet by the year 2035 to reduce air pollution and dependency on fossil fuels, creating a brighter tomorrow for all of Connecticut’s residents. A battery electric bus uses batteries to power an electric motor for propulsion as well as the bus's auxiliary systems. Connecticut’s battery electric buses are classified as zero-emission vehicles, meaning the bus does not emit any tailpipe emissions. CTtransit’s battery electric buses have been out of service since July 2022 following a thermal event caused by a defect in the design of the bus that was part of a national recall. The manufacturer recalled the buses, and repairs were made to correct the defect.

“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,” stated 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.”

To safely return the BEBs into service, CTDOT worked closely with the bus manufacturer New Flyer, the charger manufacturer ABB, and CTtransit. This work included enhanced training and procedures for operators as well as for those in the maintenance and charging units. In addition, enhancements were made to the battery thermal management systems and monitoring software. 

In anticipation of the service return, each battery electric bus underwent a thorough inspection followed by comprehensive road testing to ensure the system updates and enhancements meet the needs of Connecticut's extensive public transportation network.  

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