HONOLULU – A significant milestone in sustainable transportation has been achieved in Hawaiʻi with the unveiling of new all-electric, zero-emission buses.
The state Department of Transportation (HDOT), in collaboration with four counties, introduced these battery-electric buses, manufactured by Gillig, to be deployed on Kauaʻi, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island.
Governor Josh Green emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “The arrival of these new alternative energy, low-emission buses will provide our residents and visitors with additional transportation options that will help keep our communities connected.
This milestone is another step in the state’s continuing effort to reduce Hawai‘i’s dependence on imported fossil fuels while enhancing the Islands’ energy security.
We appreciate the Federal Transit Administration’s support in providing the grant funding to secure these buses and allow the counties to invest in improvements and infrastructure upgrades needed to transition their fleet to electric buses.”
The delivery of these new buses will see 12 diesel buses on Kauaʻi, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island replaced with battery-electric alternatives.
This conversion is expected to result in significant environmental benefits, including a reduction of approximately 17.34 tons of greenhouse gas emissions over the lifetime of the new buses, with each bus responsible for an estimated 1.445 tons of nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions reductions.
The project received $11.2 million from the Federal Transit Administration as part of its “Low or No Emissions” competitive grant and “Buses and Bus Facilities” formula program, covering a portion of the overall cost of $16.6 million.
Additionally, the Hawai‘i State Energy Office contributed $3.53 million from the Volkswagen Settlement funds, with the remaining expenses supported by the counties involved.
Aiming for sustainability, all counties in Hawaiʻi have set a goal to transition their public bus fleets to 100% renewable fuels by 2035.
Honolulu is also progressing towards this goal by planning to purchase new zero-emission buses to enhance TheBus fleet.
Currently, Honolulu operates 17 zero-emission buses throughout Oʻahu and has secured funds for the acquisition of up to 78 additional buses within the next three years.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi remarked, “These battery-electric buses have been a game changer for Honolulu.
They are quiet and efficient, with top-notch performance ensuring our riders a safe, comfortable, and high-quality ride.
Our riders love them. Our bus drivers love driving them.
I’m proud that our city and the state are taking steps together toward a cleaner transportation future.”
To support the new electric buses, the City and County of Honolulu is also developing new and additional charging stations at key locations including the Alapaʻi Transit Center, Kalihi Transit Center, Pearlridge Mobility Hub, and the Pearl City Bus Facility.
Kaua‘i Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami expressed pride in this initiative, stating, “Today marks an important milestone, not only for the County of Kaua’i but for the entire State.
This marks a significant step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.
The introduction of electric buses into our County’s fleet is more than a transportation upgrade; it is a clear commitment to environmental responsibility in our County and State.
We understand the importance of caring for our Earth, and transitioning to electric buses helps us reduce emissions, lower long-term costs, and lead by example in the fight against climate change.
These vehicles show our continued commitment to investing in technology that aligns with our values.
Mahalo to our partners at the federal and state levels, our dedicated County team, and our community for supporting this effort.
We look forward to continuing this momentum and building a transit system that future generations will be proud of.”
Maui Mayor Richard Bissen added, “We look forward to seeing these buses on the road as we continue to prioritize energy efficient resources.
Every ride on one of these buses helps reduce emissions and protect our environment.”
On Hawaiʻi Island, Mayor Kimo Alameda also praised the initiative, stating, “These new electric buses are a significant step toward reducing our emissions and expanding sustainable transportation options for our residents.
They are a win both for our environment and the people of Hawaiʻi.
Mahalo to our federal and state partners for helping us make this forward-thinking investment possible.”
The new electric buses are set to enhance air quality and public health in areas vulnerable to air pollutants, as their use leads to a decrease in diesel particulate matter and greenhouse gas emissions.
The initiative is seen as a positive movement towards improved environmental conditions and sustainable living in Hawaiʻi.
image source from：hidot
