Nova Bus announced it passed the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) new model bus test with a great score of 80%. The tests were conducted in Altoona, Pa., and are required for any company selling buses in the U.S. that are purchased with federal funds. It is the first all-electric bus to pass the new test protocol implemented in 2016.

The Altoona program provides performance information and ensures the safety and reliability of new transit buses through a battery of tests that receive an objective analysis and breakdown. The Nova Bus LFSe model stood out as especially durable and reliable, completing the required 15,000 miles in a record time of 195 days. Another record was broken for distance; 1,118 miles in a week, that is more than 220 miles per day. That is unprecedented for an electric bus, and proof that OppCharge and best bus reliability provide the most in-service availability. The Nova Bus LFSe also easily passed the stability test in double lane change and has the best braking distances in its category.

This excellent performance is due in large part to optimization of the quantity of traction batteries and weight distribution on the vehicle to allow it to safely transport more passengers.

“We are extremely proud to be the first to complete the Pass/Fail standard with an electric bus”, said Ralph Acs, president, Nova Bus and Prevost, and sr. VP, Americas, of Volvo Bus. “Our Nova Bus LFSe buses are already in service in Montreal and are known to offer distinct advantages both environmentally and economically. This certification — and especially being the first to do it with a fully electric bus — just goes to show that Nova Bus can meet the challenge of electric urban mobility.”