METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

SunLine adding 5 New Flyer fuel cell-electric Xcelsior buses

In its partnership with CARB, SunLine will be testing one full-year of revenue service, measuring environmental impact and sustainability of the fuel cell-powered heavy-duty transit buses.

December 12, 2017
SunLine adding 5 New Flyer fuel cell-electric Xcelsior buses

 

2 min to read


Thousand Palms, Calif.’s SunLine Transit Agency awarded New Flyer with a contract for five Xcelsior® fuel cell-electric 40-foot, heavy-duty transit buses.

The new order, which was supported by the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Low Carbon Transportation and Air Quality Improvement Program, and the Federal Transit Administration’s Low or No-Emission fund, supports fleet expansion aligned to SunLine’s mandate to provide safe and environmentally conscious public transportation and alternative-fuel solutions in the Coachella Valley. SunLine is also upgrading its on-site hydrogen generation fuel infrastructure to support this goal.

Ad Loading...

In its partnership with CARB, SunLine will be testing one full-year of revenue service, measuring environmental impact and sustainability of the fuel cell-powered heavy-duty transit buses.

“With a focus on advancing innovative transportation and alternative fuel technologies, SunLine has established itself as a leader in the evolution of American public transportation,” said Wayne Joseph, president, New Flyer of America. “We are proud to support this advancement toward greater sustainability, and to deliver buses with the environment and surrounding community in mind. We look forward to innovating sustainable growth in transit together.”

SunLine Transit Agency provides public bus service in the Coachella Valley and Riverside-Downtown areas of California, and moves over 3.5 million passengers per year. The NFI Group has over 50 years of experience in manufacturing zero-emission buses.

This project is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide program that puts billions of cap-and-trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment - particularly in disadvantaged communities. The cap-and-trade program also creates a financial incentive for industries to invest in clean technologies and develop innovative ways to reduce pollution. California Climate Investments projects include affordable housing, renewable energy, public transportation, zero-emission vehicles, environmental restoration, more sustainable agriculture, recycling, and much more. At least 35% of these investments are made in disadvantaged and low-income communities.

More Technology

A screenshot of a Clever Devices product
Technologyby StaffApril 2, 2026

Hitachi Rail Strikes Deal to Acquire Clever Devices

The proposed acquisition of a company with deep digital expertise and expected 2026 revenues of over $220 million marks a significant step in Hitachi Rail’s strategy to operate as a leading global digital mobility player, the company said.

Read More →
A white, blue, and black graphic with a black and white image of hands tapping a fare card and text reading "Transit Fare Systems Reimagined."
Technologyby Elora HaynesApril 1, 2026

Why Transit Agencies Are Rethinking the Farebox, and the Technology Behind It

The farebox is no longer just a payment machine. Learn how agencies are using new tech and pricing strategies to rethink how riders pay for transit.

Read More →
DART bus approaching waiting passengers
Technologyby StaffMarch 30, 2026

DART Approves Major Investment to Upgrade Bus Stop Amenities

The board authorized a five-year contract, with two one-year options, to Tolar Manufacturing Company Inc., for the fabrication and installation of upgraded passenger amenities at bus stops across the DART Service Area.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Coach USA, Samsara cover shot
Technologyby Alex RomanMarch 30, 2026

How Coach USA Is Using AI to Prevent Bus Accidents

As motorcoaches navigate increasingly congested urban corridors filled with pedestrians, cyclists, scooters, and distracted drivers, safety leaders across the industry are confronting a growing challenge: visibility.

Read More →
A Houston automated people mover manufactured by Alstom.
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsMarch 26, 2026

Biz Briefs: Alstom in Houston, DATTCO Makes Acquisition, and More

In this edition of Biz Briefs, we highlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility — from manufacturers and technology providers to transit agencies and motorcoach service operators.

Read More →
A screenshot of ZeroEyes AI gun detection technology.
Railby Staff and News ReportsMarch 24, 2026

ZeroEyes Launches ZeroLink to Expand AI Gun Detection Beyond Traditional Networks

New edge-based solution enables real-time threat detection and situational awareness in remote, mobile, and infrastructure-limited environments.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Opening text art for METRO's Product Roundup
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsMarch 23, 2026

Product Roundup: Transportation Software and More

In this product roundup, METRO highlights transit software platforms designed to optimize scheduling; harness actionable data; and support flexible, on-demand operations.

Read More →
A Go Durham bus
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsMarch 20, 2026

TSI Delivers North Carolina Refurbs, Expanded SilverRide Partnerships Highlight Biz Briefs

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →
A Chicago Metra train on rail tracks
Technologyby StaffMarch 20, 2026

Chicago's Metra to Launch Fare Collection Tech Pilot

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.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
An ABQ RIDE bus going through a Westmatic wash system.
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsMarch 16, 2026

Biz Briefs: Westmatic in Albuquerque, New Fare Payment Systems, and More

In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at the latest news from suppliers including Alstom, Modeshift, and more.

Read More →