Seattle’s King County Metro contracted with European bus builder Solaris to buy up to 16 zero-emission buses. 

The award marks Solaris’ first contract with a U.S.-based transit agency and represents the company’s effort to expand its presence in the North American market.

The partnership also reflects a broader push to diversify the number of transit suppliers in the region. 

Metro’s procurement will help increase the bus manufacturing competition in the U.S. market, where bus manufacturing shortages have created supply chain challenges for all transit agencies.

From Europe to the US

Poland-based Solaris has been a supplier of zero-emission buses for over a decade and provides battery-electric buses, hydrogen fuel cell buses, and electric trolleys. 

Solaris buses are in service in over 30 countries and Solaris-built buses were recognized in 2017 and in 2024 as Europe’s Bus of the Year.

Metro will initially buy four battery-electric buses, with the option of purchasing a total of 16 vehicles.

“At Metro, we are deeply committed to building a sustainable future through innovation and collaboration,” said King County Metro GM Michelle Allison. “Our goal is to create a zero-emission fleet that not only enhances our communities but also leads the way in environmental responsibility. Metro’s partnership with electric and hydrogen bus manufacturer Solaris will help overcome the bus manufacturing shortage and potentially provide more options for other transit agencies in North America, too.”

King County Metro’s New ZEBs

Metro is purchasing two 40-foot buses and two 60-foot buses with an option to procure 12 additional vehicles. The first of the vehicles is scheduled to arrive in 2026. 

The buses are designed specifically for the North American market and feature the most progressive battery bus technology developed by Solaris.

Metro will put these vehicles through vigorous testing and evaluations including shadow service. This comprehensive testing will allow Metro to evaluate Solaris’ ability to meet the requirements of the North American market and has the potential to add a competitor to the North American battery-electric, hydrogen, and trolley bus market for 40-foot and 60-foot buses.

Metro’s Current Fleet

Metro’s current zero-emission fleet includes battery-electric buses manufactured by New Flyer. 

The first of 89 new battery-electric buses purchased from GILLIG are scheduled to be delivered by the end of the year and are expected to go into service in 2026 when Metro’s Tukwila Base is scheduled to open.