Battery Electric Buses to Return to Service on Connecticut’s Roadways
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced today that battery electric buses (BEB) operated by CTtransit will return to service this coming Monday, July 31, 2023.
Connecticut is planning to decarbonize its entire bus fleet by the year 2035 to reduce air pollution and dependency on fossil fuels, creating a brighter tomorrow for all of Connecticut’s residents. A battery electric bus uses batteries to power an electric motor for propulsion as well as the bus's auxiliary systems. Connecticut’s battery electric buses are classified as zero-emission vehicles, meaning the bus does not emit any tailpipe emissions. CTtransit’s battery electric buses have been out of service since July 2022 following a thermal event caused by a defect in the design of the bus that was part of a national recall. The manufacturer recalled the buses, and repairs were made to correct the defect.
“The return of these battery electric buses is part of Connecticut’s comprehensive effort to improve the quality of life in Connecticut by keeping our air clean,” stated CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “These buses operate in areas that are disproportionately burdened by air pollution, and removing diesel emissions is vital to the health and wellbeing of all our residents. In addition to having no emissions, these buses are quieter, provide a smoother ride, and have lower maintenance costs than diesel vehicles.”
To safely return the BEBs into service, CTDOT worked closely with the bus manufacturer New Flyer, the charger manufacturer ABB, and CTtransit. This work included enhanced training and procedures for operators as well as for those in the maintenance and charging units. In addition, enhancements were made to the battery thermal management systems and monitoring software.
In anticipation of the service return, each battery electric bus underwent a thorough inspection followed by comprehensive road testing to ensure the system updates and enhancements meet the needs of Connecticut's extensive public transportation network.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
860-594-3062
CTDOTMedia@ct.gov
Public Backed Service Expansions Now Underway!
New Bus Routes Available in New Britain, Berlin, Meriden, Plainville, Southington, and Stamford
When the public talks, CT transit listens.
In March of this year, the Connecticut Department of Transportation implemented new bus routes, now serving communities in New Britain, Berlin, Meriden, Plainville, Southington, and Stamford. These new bus routes will bolster connectivity and amplify coverage throughout central Connecticut.
“Public transit is more than just a mode of transportation; it is a lifeline that connects individuals to career opportunities, businesses to customers, and communities to growth,” said General Manager of CT transit, Thomas Stringer. “A robust public transportation system is essential for driving economic impact and supporting local businesses.”
But wait, there’s more!
This service expansion is just the beginning of a series of upcoming expansions, totaling more than $18 million, proposed by Governor Ned Lamont and supported by local legislature. These new routes will provide greater access to a broader range of employment centers and career opportunities across the region, ultimately enhancing residents' career prospects and improving their quality of life.
“This major bus service expansion is the latest effort to connect customers with critical jobs, housing, and services while expanding opportunities for Transit Oriented Development (TOD)—allowing people to live and commute with ease,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Deputy Commissioner Karen Kitsis. “CTDOT is grateful for the support of Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut General Assembly, which responded to customer needs by investing in the expansion of our transit system.”
These new routes were, in part, discovered through feedback from community members, frontline transit workers, and key government officials.
Public Service by the Numbers:
- 4,300 community members surveyed online
- 36 community events across Connecticut
- 29 interviews with transit providers, councils of government, and transit district reps
- 10 customer focus groups
CTDOT’s Customer Experience (CX) Action Plan team gathered this wealth of responses. Based on insights from those we serve, they lead the initiative to develop public transportation innovations throughout the state. This energized team will continue responding to the needs of the people—the customers and supporters of public transit—and propose new paths forward.
Pictured left to right: Samaia Hernandez, Alicia Leite, Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, Lisa Rivers, and Karen Kitsis.
“As Connecticut works to be a leader in delivering major new transit investments, including CTfastrak and CTrail Hartford Line, we recognize the support and input of our transit providers and customers across Connecticut,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Public Transportation Bureau Chief Benjamin Limmer. “We look forward to launching new transportation services in communities across Connecticut in the months ahead.”
home text