NJ TRANSIT has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the purchase of eight battery-powered electric buses, which will be used as part of a limited deployment in the City of Camden.

The acquisition of the buses is part of an overall effort by Gov. Phil Murphy’s Administration to combat the impacts of climate change by transitioning to zero-emission vehicles. The Camden limited deployment will enable NJ TRANSIT to study the benefits and challenges of using zero-emission vehicles in a real-world setting. NJ TRANSIT will retain a third party to monitor the program’s progress and the battery-electric bus performance.

“These new electric buses, and their deployment in Camden later this year, represent just one aspect of our overall strategy to transition to a 100 percent zero-emissions bus fleet consistent with Governor Murphy’s Energy Master Plan,” said NJ TRANSIT President/CEO Kevin S. Corbett. “In addition to a new Northern Bus Garage that will be constructed with the necessary charging infrastructure to support a fleet of up to 500 buses, NJ TRANSIT will play a significant role in improving the air quality for many of the communities in our service area who disproportionately bear the burden of the ongoing effects of climate change.”

In January 2020, Gov. Murphy signed legislation establishing goals to increase the use of zero-emission vehicles in New Jersey.

• By Dec. 31, 2024: at least 10% of new bus purchases will be zero-emission buses.

• By Dec. 31, 2026: at least 50% of new bus purchases will be zero-emission buses.

• By Dec. 31, 2032: 100% of new bus purchases will be zero-emission buses.

In September 2020, NJ TRANSIT’s Board of Directors awarded a $3.235 million contract to Scalfo Electric of Vineland to renovate the Newton Avenue Bus Garage with electric vehicle charging stations and other associated infrastructure modifications. That project is targeted to be completed summer 2021.

The transition to zero-emission vehicles advances NJ TRANSIT’s goal outlined in the 10-year Strategic Plan to “Promote a More Sustainable Future for Our Planet.”