MTM Transit integrates electric vehicles into California and Oregon fleets

MTM Transit has integrated electric vehicles into its Tracy, Calif., fleet, and will be doing the same for its fleet in Bend, Ore., beginning Sept. 1.

In Tracy, two Nissan Leafs are currently on the road for supervision and support activities. In Bend, MTM Transit will deploy two Chevy Bolts, accompanied by a Level 2 charging station, for similar functions.

"Going green and electrifying our fleet just makes sense," said MTM Transit President and CEO Alaina Maciá. "Hybrid and electric vehicles bring great value to our organization and our clients—specifically, better fuel economy, reduced operating costs and significantly lower scheduled maintenance. With exciting new vehicles and technology like improved battery life and hydrogen fuel cells hitting the market, we look forward to contributing to a greener future for transportation systems nationwide."

Looking to the future, MTM Transit's goal is to begin incorporating electric and hybrid vehicles into its fleets as often as possible. As minivans and cutaways within its fleets retire, the company plans to replace them with hybrid options like the Chrysler Pacifica and Toyota Sienna, as well as fully electric cutaway options like the Ford E-Transit.

"The transit industry has never been more ripe for partners capable of launching flexible, sustainable, and scalable transportation options, and MTM Transit is on a mission to be the industry's premier green partner," Maciá added. "From integrating electric and hybrid vehicles, to installing solar lighting in our facilities, to utilizing re-refined fluids in our vehicles, this is just the start as we continue exploring opportunities for going green and making a difference in our industry and on our environment."