The City of Annapolis announced the purchase of two BYD battery-electric K7M transit buses, which will be the first in its transit fleet, according to BYD's news release.

The BYD K7M seats up to 22 passengers and includes two optional ADA-compliant wheelchair positions.

BYD buses are equipped with iron-phosphate batteries and are built with low-floors to enhance accessibility and safety for its passengers.

“BYD is proud to join Annapolis as it starts down the path toward electrification,” said Patrick Duan, BYD SVP. “Annapolis is such a beautiful city, full of rich history and it’s an honor to be a part of its journey toward a greener, cleaner future.”

The Annapolis Department of Transportation, which operates Annapolis Transit, said it plans to enhance the quality of life through making environmentally conscious decisions with clean energy transit.

“We all have to make changes in our lives and routines to become less reliant on energy sources that contribute to climate change and sea level rise,” said Mayor Gavin Buckley. “Migrating our transit fleet from fossil fuels to electric is a step the City of Annapolis can take. We are very happy to be moving forward with this acquisition.”

The buses will be built by members of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation (SMART) Workers Union, Local 105, in BYD’s manufacturing facility located in Lancaster, California.