The new 40-foot buses have USB charging ports on all double seats, as well as the capability for Wi-Fi.
SamTrans
1 min to read
The new 40-foot buses have USB charging ports on all double seats, as well as the capability for Wi-Fi.
SamTrans
San Carlos, Calif.’s SamTrans held a press conference on board one of its new electric buses, highlighting the features of this new piece of technology and laying out the agency’s plan to convert to a fully zero-emissions fleet.
The SamTrans Board voted in March to replace 10 of the oldest diesel vehicles in the fleet with new electric battery-powered buses, manufactured by Burlingame-based Proterra Inc. This is the first purchase of zero-emission vehicles in the agency’s history. SamTrans is currently looking to replace the entirety of its fleet with zero-emissions vehicles by 2032.
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SamTrans is currently looking to replace the entirety of its fleet with zero-emissions vehicles by 2032.
SamTrans
The new 40-foot buses have USB charging ports on all double seats, as well as the capability for Wi-Fi. In addition, they have a low floor design, which will mean that the buses will be equipped with ramps rather than lifts, and Q-Pod wheelchair restraint systems to secure wheelchair users that are easier for operators and include additional safety features beyond the existing ratchet-based system.
“Improving our environment is a fundamental part of SamTrans’ mission statement,” said SamTrans GM/CEO Jim Hartnett. “As state government contemplates setting 2040 as the deadline for transit agencies going zero emission, it’s our responsibility to stay ahead of the curve so we can continue to serve our riders and push back against traffic congestion.”
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.
