Electric School Buses Roll into Atlanta’s Future

Electric school buses parked at an Atlanta school

News Summary

Atlanta Public Schools is transforming its fleet by introducing electric school buses, thanks to a $9.9 million grant from the EPA. This initiative aims to reduce emissions and improve air quality for students. Schools in neighboring counties are also joining the effort, with substantial funding to purchase electric buses and install charging infrastructure. The shift not only supports sustainability but promises significant cost savings on fuel and maintenance. With electric buses already in service, feedback has been positive, creating a quieter and cleaner environment for school transportation.

Electric School Buses Rolling into Atlanta and Beyond!

Atlanta and its neighboring counties are gearing up for an exciting and eco-friendly transformation in school transportation. The Atlanta Public Schools (APS) is leading the charge by partnering with The Lion Electric Company to replace its fleet of 400 diesel-powered school buses with shiny new electric buses. Thanks to a generous $9.9 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program, this ambitious transition is finally coming to life!

Goodbye, Diesel – Hello, Green Technology!

APS has already placed an order for the first 25 LionC electric buses—a modern marvel when it comes to school transportation. Designed to improve visibility and reliability, these buses look like traditional school buses but come packed with amazing benefits like zero emissions and whisper-quiet operation even when fully loaded. Talk about a double win for the environment and a peaceful ride!

So far, 23 electric school buses are already in service within APS, and the feedback from drivers has been overwhelmingly positive. They appreciate the calm atmosphere that these new electric vehicles bring to their daily routes. With the delightful silence of the buses, the sounds of the school day can take center stage instead of the typical rumble of diesel engines!

A National Initiative Taking Flight

This electric bus initiative forms part of a broader effort tied to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which allocates a whopping $5 billion over five years to help school districts across the country transition to electric fleets. And Atlanta isn’t the only place in Georgia making strides in this direction. Other districts like DeKalb, Clayton, and Douglas counties are also jumping on the electric bandwagon, receiving federal funds through the same program.

Charging Ahead

What’s even more exciting? APS plans to install over 50 charging ports for these new electric buses with the help of ChargePoint, known for its state-of-the-art charging stations. This infrastructure will not only support the new buses but also set the stage for an electric future in student transportation.

Big Savings Ahead!

Switching to electric doesn’t just help the environment; it also brings substantial financial benefits to the districts. Estimates suggest that electric buses could cut fuel and maintenance costs by up to 80%. Imagine the savings that can be redirected into educational programs and resources! Plus, these electric buses have the added perk of doubling as generators during emergencies, offering yet another layer of financial benefit to the school districts.

DeKalb County Gets on Board!

25 electric school buses under the Clean Bus Program. These buses will be specifically assigned to routes serving underserved zip codes, further enhancing support for the community. The district anticipates saving thousands of dollars each year thanks to this initiative.

Clayton County’s Commitment

Over in Clayton County, they’ve received a notable $8.6 million to acquire 25 electric buses, aligning with their goals to boost sustainability and cut down on emissions. Remarkably, maintenance for these electric buses will require minimal routine tasks compared to the extensive upkeep that traditional diesel buses need. It’s a win-win all around!

Georgia’s Electric Future

285 electric school buses? This impressive number puts the state among the leaders in electric bus adoption in the United States! The latest wave of funding from the Clean School Bus Program has allocated $900 million to benefit over 1,000 communities nationwide, and Georgia is making sure it gets its fair share. And other counties, such as Atkinson, Baldwin, Brooks, Jeff Davis, Madison, and Oglethorpe, are also receiving support for similar projects.

The Bright Side for Our Kids!

With companies like Blue Bird, a leading bus manufacturer based right in Georgia, also gearing up to meet the growing demand for electric buses, it’s safe to say that the future is looking bright. The programs in DeKalb and APS are just the beginning in a nationwide push toward cleaner transportation options for schools.

So buckle up, Atlanta! A cleaner ride to school is on the way.