Phoenix is off to a Flyer: New hybrid buses hit the road as city breathes a bit easier
Phoenix, Arizona: The Phoenix Public Transit Department's first group of hybrid buses are now running on city roads. The buses uses a parallel hybrid drive system that combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor. This setup allows the bus to operate using both power sources, optimizing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. The bus can operate in electric-only mode at low speeds or during idling, which helps in cutting down noise pollution and fuel consumption in urban environments.
“Phoenix is proud to lead the charge towards a greener future where our residents can breathe cleaner air while getting them to their destinations,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said.
“As we aim to be the most sustainable desert city in the world, we are doing our part to cut emissions, adopt the latest technology, and encourage residents to make climate-conscious decisions. I’m excited to see our brand-new buses hit the road to serve Phoenicians.”
The New Flyer Xcelsior Hybrid-Electric bus can accommodate 35 passengers (53 with maximum standing capacity), has three wheelchair areas, and has a driving range of more than 500 miles.
“We do our best to serve our riders with a reliable public transit service to get them where they need to go,” said Public Transit Director Jesús Sapien. “And providing cleaner energy buses to our existing fleet is yet another way we are adding to that service.”
Currently, Phoenix Public Transit has a fleet of 500 heavy-duty buses that run on alternative fuels, including natural gas and biodiesel. In August 2022, the Federal Transit Administration awarded Phoenix Public Transit a grant for low and no-emissions buses and supporting infrastructure. The grant is being used to replace aging buses with battery electric and hydrogen fuel-cell buses, install new infrastructure, and assist in workforce development to maintain newer bus fleets.