The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) awarded a contract for 30 30-foot hybrid-electric E-Z Rider II model heavy-duty transit buses for its Municipal Railway (Muni) bus service through ENC’s California based dealer, Creative Bus Sales.

The SFMTA is a department of the City and County of San Francisco responsible for the management of all ground transportation in the city. It has oversight over Muni public transit; the first major, publicly owned and municipally operated transit agency in the nation and known as the “People’s Railway” since opening day on Dec. 28, 1912. The diverse Muni fleet — including cable cars, streetcars, light rail, electric trolley coaches, and hybrid buses — and its significance as the first municipal system, give Muni a special place in San Francisco history and the story of American transportation.

“We are thrilled to bring these new hybrid-electric buses to the streets of San Francisco,” said Julie Kirschbaum, SFMTA director, transit. "These small but mighty buses will greatly improve service and reliability to our hilltop residents — making a big difference in dependability and crosstown connections.”

The new E-Z Rider II buses are part of SFMTA’s ongoing effort to modernize its Muni fleet to benefit customers and reduce maintenance costs. The heavy-duty E-Z Rider II 30-foot low-floor buses will be specifically designed to accommodate the unique operating routes which have up to a 21% grade. The short wheelbase design is ideal for navigating the congested neighborhoods and downtown areas where a conventional 40-foot bus cannot fit or is not desired.