In January 2011, the Indianapolis Public Transportation Corp. (IndyGo) plans to welcome 22 new 40-foot, low-floor Gillig LLC buses into its fleet. Of those 22 buses, 11 will incorporate the latest electric-hybrid technology.

"We're very excited about adding these 'green machines' to our fleet as they will further accelerate our companywide 'Go Green' sustainability initiative," said IndyGo President/CEO Mike Terry. "Bus service, in general, is a 'greener' way to travel, but these hybrids will do even more to reduce the environmental impact on the city as well as lessen our dependence on fossil fuels."

IndyGo managed to procure the 22 replacement buses from Gillig using grant dollars, local funds and stimulus money designated through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) formula grant program as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The decision to convert 11 of the buses to hybrid came after IndyGo received an Electric Hybrid Grant initiated by Sen. Richard Lugar (R-Ind).

Each IndyGo hybrid bus combines a diesel-fueled combustion engine, made by Columbus, Ind.-based Cummins, with a battery-powered electric motor, allowing it to deliver better fuel economy as well as generate 99.84 percent fewer emissions than a conventional bus. A Hoosier-built Allison transmission sends the power from the engine to the drive wheels.  

In early 2011, the 22 new IndyGo buses will hit the streets as each model applies a Gillig cosmetic bus rapid transit variant to enhance its appeal, differentiate service and make a noticeable impact on the community, according to IndyGo. They will join 133 other IndyGo buses, which include two 2004 hybrid models, and replace 25 Gillig 29-foot buses from 2000 that have met the retirement requirements set forth by the FTA.

The hybrid designs will be easily identifiable via the IndyGo "Green" logo with the leaf.