Seattle’s King County Metro launched a new fleet of battery-electric buses to enhance transit operator safety, reduce harmful emissions, and prioritize deployment in south King County communities disproportionately affected by air pollution.

Rolling out in electric yellow and seafoam blue, the first battery-electric buses purchased from GILLIG will begin serving riders in south King County on February 2. 

Metro is prioritizing south King County routes for the initial deployment, where many communities experience higher-than-average levels of traffic-related air pollution. 

Deploying zero-emission buses in these neighborhoods improves air quality and expands access to cleaner transit options, according to agency officials. Additionally, the new operator safety partitions are the first to enter service following commitments made after the death of Metro operator Shawn Yim.

The new buses are the first in Metro’s fleet to enter service with new operator safety partitions installed. The partitions include a reinforced lower metal panel extending to the operator’s platform, along with a two-part sliding glass system. A larger, extendable glass panel provides increased coverage and visibility, while an additional polycarbonate panel extends to the ceiling for added protection.

The partition will remain closed at all times except when transit operators are assisting customers with mobility devices, and it will meet industry safety standards for vehicle windows and operator compartments.

“Safety is our top priority, and these new buses are designed with enhanced steel and glass operator safety partitions to protect our drivers better while they serve the public every day,” said Metro GM Michelle Allison. “Our investment in these buses also reflects our values: protecting the people who operate our system and transitioning to clean transportation. Enhanced safety partitions improve operator security, while zero-emission technology helps build healthier communities now and for future generations.”

King County’s Next Gen ZEBs

Equipped with larger batteries than Metro’s current battery-electric fleet, the new 40-foot buses will travel an estimated 240 to 280 miles on a single charge, according to the manufacturer, and carry up to 69 people, including the transit operator. Metro will monitor performance as buses enter service and operations ramp up.

The new vehicles will join Metro’s existing fleet of 40 battery-electric buses. Charging will begin at Tukwila Base this spring, with service expanding as additional buses are delivered. Once complete, the base will support up to 120 battery-electric buses, serving tens of thousands of riders across south King County.

The GILLIG buses also debut Metro’s new exterior design, known as “The New Energy,” a bright, modern look that reflects the agency’s transition to a zero-emission fleet and a more sustainable future for public transportation.