Milwaukee County Transit System contracts Nova Bus to create all-electric buses
Drake Bentley
The Milwaukee County Transit System has awarded a contract to Nova Bus, a North American transportation manufacturer that’s part of the Volvo Group, to produce up to 15 all-electric buses.
The first 11 all-electric buses will run exclusively on the upcoming East-West Bus Rapid Transit line and four additional buses will be used along regular routes, MCTS said in a press release.
The all-electric buses provide a quieter ride, comfortable seating, USB charging ports and off-board fare collection.
The transit system believes the new clean-air buses will strengthen accessibility and improve the experience of riders with disabilities since riders who use mobility devices can enter the bus through the front or back door. The buses also include wider aisles and level boarding via new platforms.
Battery-electric buses are nearly silent when operating at low speeds. Exterior and interior chimes will sound when the vehicle slows to under three miles per hour to ensure that passengers who are visually impaired know the bus is approaching a stop.
“Alternative-fuel buses represent the future of public transportation,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley.
“We’re excited to transition towards greener, more sustainable, and more efficient transit for our community. Innovative technologies like this help in our mission to advance racial equity and enhance the quality of life through great public service.”
The buses can operate up to 247 miles on a single charge. Batteries will be recharged at transit system maintenance garages and at a designated charging station along the new East-West Bus Rapid Transit line.
Several components of the buses will be built and assembled at businesses in Pleasant Prairie, Racine, Greendale, Pewaukee, Elkhart Lake and Manitowoc.
“As MCTS makes its first step to alternative-fuel vehicles, Nova Bus will be there to support the technology that keeps Milwaukee moving,” said Martin Larose, Nova Bus vice president and general manager.
Contact Drake Bentley at (414) 722-3811 or DBentley1@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @drake_bentley.