Long Beach unveils "E-Power" buses
California agency debuts new buses with propulsion system resembling the Toyota Prius.
Long Beach (Calif.) Transit (LBT) will begin service on 15 new “E-Power” buses Monday, representing the world’s first hybrid gasoline-electric buses to be used in regular transit service.
With improved gas mileage, cleaner emissions and a quieter ride, the buses will replace older, ultra low-sulfur diesel buses in the LBT fleet. The agency ordered a total of 47 of the new vehicles, which will all be delivered by summer’s end.
Other Southern California transit agencies are awaiting delivery of these vehicles, which are very similar to hybrid passenger cars — such as the Toyota Prius. Others that will use the E-Power buses include the Orange County Transportation Authority, Gardena Municipal Bus Lines, Montebello Bus Lines and Norwalk Transit.
The price tag for each hybrid bus is $550,000.
More Management
Stadler Marks 10 Years in the U.S. with Salt Lake City Expansion
The expansion is expected to create up to 300 new local jobs, some of which are youth apprenticeships, said Stadler officials.
Read More →
Hitachi Rail Completes Acquisition of Intelligent Transportation Systems Provider Clever Devices
The acquisition expands Hitachi Rail's North American presence and multimodal capabilities, combining rail and bus technologies to deliver more integrated digital solutions for transit agencies.
Read More →
Utah Transit Authority Adopts New Governance Model
State leaders said the changes will improve oversight, coordinate transportation investments, and support expanding transit service across the Wasatch Front.
Read More →
Federal Highway Administration Seeks Public Input on Future of Interstate System
The initiative invites feedback on new routes, major upgrades, and emerging transportation needs, including issues that could affect public transit and motorcoach operations.
Read More →
New York MTA to Replace Three East End LIRR Bridges
Each structure, built between 1895 and 1921, serves vehicular traffic over the LIRR’s Montauk Branch.
Read More →
Transit Pilot Offers Lessons for Expanding Mobility Access
An Urban Institute evaluation found that a fare-free transit program increased ridership, reduced transportation barriers, and improved access to jobs, healthcare, and other essential services.
Read More →
Tolar Manufacturing Marks 35 Years in Transit Infrastructure Industry
Founded in 1991 by Gary Tolar, the Corona, Calif.-based company has expanded from its first major transit contract in San Diego to projects in cities throughout the US and Canada.
Read More →
SEPTA Board Approves FY2027 Budget Amid Funding Challenges
The spending plan represents an increase of just 1.9% over the current year and includes investments in new buses, additional full-length fare gates, and other customer enhancements.
Read More →
North Carolina CATS Approves Fare Modernization, Fare Ambassadors Programs
The initiatives will introduce new payment options, fare capping, and rider education as the Charlotte transit agency looks to simplify fares and improve the customer experience.
Read More →
Executive Order Aims to Improve Transit Access Across California
The order directs state agencies to streamline transit project delivery, improve coordination, and expand access to bus and passenger rail services across California.
Read More →