The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) released their comprehensive guidebook, “Modernizing Transit Fleet: A Guide to Low- and Zero-Emissions Transit Buses.” 

The guide aims to provide DRPT and its partners with the necessary information and tools to decide on how and if to transition to low- and Zero-emission vehicles.

Zach Trogon, Acting Director of DRPT emphasized the significance of this resource, stating, “This guidebook is a critical tool to help transit agencies make informed decisions as they consider a shift to low- and zero-emission vehicles. It simplifies a complex process, giving agencies clear guidance on everything from funding to deployment.”

DRPT's Guidebook

The guidebook is divided into five parts, allowing both smaller and larger agencies to easily access the topics most relevant to them. It covers essential areas such as workforce development, funding and procurement, utility coordination, infrastructure considerations, and vehicle deployment.

To further support agencies in their transition, DRPT also developed the Fleet Lifecycle Value Evaluation and Electrification Tool (FLEET).

FLEET includes a readiness checklist and provides a framework for agencies to develop their required transition plan for funding applications. It also offers financial analysis and emissions reduction tools to help agencies calculate and summarize their fleet’s capital and operating costs, as well as estimate vehicle emissions.

Throughout the project DRPT engaged with various stakeholders, including transit agencies, state departments of transportation, industry partners, and utilities.

The department conducted listening sessions, interviews, and technical working group meetings to gather insights and ensure the guidebook and tools address the needs and challenges faced by the industry.

"Our goal is to support Virginia’s transit agencies in building a cleaner, more sustainable future," said Trogdon. "This guide, along with the FLEET tool, provides the practical resources they need to take that next step."

The guidebook and Fleet Tool are available now on DRPT's website.