With a range of approximately 150 miles on a single charge and a capacity of up to 32 passengers, depending on configuration, the K9S is ideally suited for the needs of Baton Rouge.
BYD announced a new order that will see three American-made BYD K9S electric buses deployed in Baton Rouge, La., under the authority of the Capital Area Transit System (CATS) later this year.
“In every corner of the continent, we are witnessing rapid growth in the electrification of bus fleets,” said Macy Neshati, BYD sr. VP. “Whether you are looking at the hot and humid climates of the ‘Deep South,’ the wet weather of the Northwest or the frigid climates of the North, BYD buses are workhorses that can handle any condition.”
With a range of approximately 150 miles on a single charge and a capacity of up to 32 passengers, depending on configuration, the K9S is ideally suited for the needs of Baton Rouge. BYD buses are projected to cost roughly one dollar less per mile to operate than the typical diesel-powered bus. The new buses produce zero emissions and make oil changes a thing of the past. The proprietary BYD Iron-Phosphate battery is non-toxic, 100% recyclable, fire-safe, and incredibly long-cycled. In fact, BYD is the first and only electric bus manufacturer to offer a full 12-year warranty on batteries.
“We are excited to incorporate electric buses into our planned bus rapid transit projects in Baton Rouge,” said Bill Deville, CATS CEO. “These buses will allow us to see how we can use electric buses to reduce the impact of our fleet on our environment and also control costs.”
CATS, which operates 29 bus lines, provides bus service to residents of and visitors to Baton Rouge. To CATS leaders, the new buses constitute an important opportunity to innovate.
A major goal of the pilot, which begins in April, is to test the speed, functionality, and durability of new handheld devices to scan Ventra and paper tickets.
Traditionally, bus lane enforcement has relied on manual processes carried out by transit police or parking enforcement officers. While it may be effective in certain municipalities, this approach is resource-intensive and very difficult to sustain.
A phased approach to technology, in-house capabilities, and workforce investment is helping transportation leaders break the reactive cycle and build more resilient, revenue-focused operations.
The landmark event empowers riders across six agencies in the Puget Sound region to tap-and-ride transit using a contactless credit or debit card or a mobile wallet.
Now in its latest edition, the awards recognize forward-thinking solutions that improve safety, operational efficiency, sustainability, rider experience, and overall system performance.
Menard discusses how data-driven signal prioritization is improving efficiency, reliability, and ridership, while offering insight into the innovations driving the next generation of smart mobility. Together, they explore how technology and collaboration are paving the way for a more connected, sustainable future in transit.
The pilot program showcases two companies’ technology at eight bus stops. The companies submitted their ideas through the Transit Tech Lab, which is backed by the Partnership Fund for New York City and provides an accelerated pathway for early to growth-stage companies to solve public transportation challenges for the largest transit agencies in North America.
