METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

BAE Systems Brings Power for Hybrid-Electric Buses in San Francisco

SFMTA is installing new Gen3 electric drives on 42 buses for their new hybrid-electric fleet from New Flyer.

BAE Systems Hybrid Electric Bus

SFMTA's new buses from New Flyer are being equipped with BAE Systems' Gen3 electric drive systems to help create cleaner, quieter rides for transit riders.

Photo: BAE Systems

2 min to read


BAE Systems is providing 42 electric drive systems to the San Francisco Municipal Transpiration Agency’s (SFMTA) new hybrid-electric bus fleet.

Getting BAE Gen3 Drive Systems

The company will deliver its Gen3 electric drive systems to New Flyer for integration into the vehicles, providing San Francisco with cost-effective technology that can reduce fuel use and emissions.

Ad Loading...

BAE Systems’ electric drive technology has been operating on SFMTA buses since 2007. The Gen3 system builds on proven components with next-generation developments, such as incorporating advanced materials like silicon carbide and designs to maximize electrical efficiency. 

With nearly three decades of continuous innovation, the system will help SFMTA maintain a reliable and efficient transit operation.

“BAE Systems’ Gen3 system will help the SFMTA achieve its goals by providing dependable, zero-emission capable technology,” said Bob Lamanna, vice president and general manager of Power & Propulsion Solutions at BAE Systems. “Hybrid buses equipped with our technology will deliver immediate benefits, such as reducing emissions and improving air quality, while advancing San Francisco toward a zero-emission transit system.”

Looking at What the New Drive Systems Provide

The Gen3 system includes a traction motor, onboard energy storage, and smart-power electronics to create a clean, integrated electric propulsion and accessory power system for the buses.

The simplified solution, which uses upgraded modular power control systems and electric motors that use fewer components, increases reliability and makes service easier.

Ad Loading...

Hybrid buses with BAE electric drive systems offer engine start-stop and geofencing technology to automatically switch to full electric mode in designated green areas.

BAE has nearly 30 years of experience developing and integrating electric poweto switch to full electric mode in designated green areas automaticallyr and propulsion systems for buses and heavy-duty vehicles. The company has more than 19,000 propulsion systems on transit buses worldwide.

More Bus

A Nova LFSe+ electric bus for STM
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsJune 18, 2026

Biz Briefs: Montréal Debuts Nova Electric Buses and More

In this edition of Biz Briefs, we spotlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility.

Read More →
Zero-emissions bus with FLEETWATCH technology
ManagementJune 17, 2026

The Hidden Cost of Fuel Data Inaccuracy in Public Transit Fleets

In today's transit environment, accurate fuel and mileage data are critical to reducing costs, minimizing downtime, and improving fleet performance.

Read More →
Six-Year Plan Boosts Virginia Transit, Rail Investments
Managementby StaffJune 17, 2026

Virginia's $28.5B Transportation Plan Targets Transit and Rail

Approved by the Commonwealth Transportation Board, the program supports ongoing infrastructure projects while providing new investments in transit, state of good repair and transportation alternatives.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Group announcing BUSES Act
Motorcoachby StaffJune 16, 2026

Bipartisan BUSES Act Seeks Changes to New York City's Bus Idling Enforcement Program

Backed by motorcoach operators, the legislation seeks to balance emissions goals with passenger safety by allowing limited idling for inspections, accessibility needs and extreme weather conditions.

Read More →
An LA Metro D Line train in Union Station
Managementby StaffJune 16, 2026

D Line Expansion Fuels Growth Across LA Metro's Rail System

Weekend rail ridership was especially strong, soaring 18% as riders embraced expanded access to jobs, entertainment, dining, and cultural destinations, said the agency. Total system ridership for May, including bus and rail, was 26,966,657.

Read More →
An ENC bus being manufactured in its facility.
Busby StaffJune 10, 2026

ENC to Deliver Three Clean Diesel Buses to Canada's York Region Transit

Since 2005, City View and ENC have supplied nearly 90 E-Z Rider II buses to YRT.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Frontrunner's new facility in Billerica, Massachusetts.
Busby StaffJune 8, 2026

Frontrunner Bus Group Expands with New Massachusetts Headquarters

The significantly larger facility will provide the infrastructure needed to support the company’s growing workforce, advanced technologies, and expanding product line.

Read More →
New MobilityJune 5, 2026

Joshua Schank on Transportation Innovation, Risk, and the Future of Mobility

In this edition of METROspectives, Joshua Schank discusses lessons from launching LA Metro’s Office of Extraordinary Innovation, the challenges of advancing new mobility technologies, and much more.

Read More →
A maintenance person with a tablet.
ManagementJune 5, 2026

Reinventing Fleet Maintenance with Real-time Visibility and AI

Transit leaders need to know what needs fixing, where to look, who is responsible, when work is completed, and what it costs without having to chase information across disconnected systems.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
SamTrans planning for ballot measure
Managementby StaffJune 4, 2026

SamTrans Sets Priorities for Potential Connect Bay Area Revenue

The board-approved framework allocates future funding to maintaining service, rider improvements, equity initiatives, and infrastructure repairs.

Read More →