Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is investing in CNG buses while NFI Group and Nova Bus are fulfilling contracts for zero-emission buses.
DART
DART has purchased 476 compressed natural gas (CNG) buses from GILLIG. The agency says the order was supplemented by $103 million in federal grant funds.
DART Transform is the agency’s commitment to modernize its transit system during the next decade through investments that enhance safety, reliability and accessibility while elevating the customer service experience. The largest piece of DART Transform is the addition of new buses and light-rail vehicles to replace the oldest units in the agency’s aging fleet.
The agency notes the new CNG buses include advanced safety features and enhanced passenger comforts, creating a more enjoyable and secure ride for DART’s riders.
“This significant fleet upgrade represents our unwavering commitment to transforming DART into a safer, cleaner and more modern transit system for North Texas,” said DART Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer Dee Leggett. “Working with GILLIG allows us to provide a superior experience for our riders while advancing our sustainability goals. Together, we’re setting a new standard for mobility in the region.”
“We are honored to partner with DART on this transformative project,” said GILLIG Vice President of Sales Bill Fay. “These CNG buses exemplify GILLIG's dedication to delivering safe, reliable and cost-effective transit solutions that empower communities and enhance the passenger experience. We look forward to supporting DART in their mission to serve North Texas.”
DART and GILLIG are working through the final design and manufacturing phase of the bus order. DART notes passengers can expect to see the new buses on North Texas routes by spring of 2026, prior to the region serving as host to the FIFA World Cup.
NFI Group
NFI Group Inc. (NFI), a subsidiary of New Flyer of America Inc. (New Flyer), has picked up an option order for 265 zero-emission buses from the New York Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA). The order is part of a contract between New Flyer and the MTA signed in Q1 2024 and allows for the purchase of 193 Xcelsior CHARGE NG™ 40-foot buses and 72 Xcelsior CHARGE NG™ 60-foot buses (144 equivalent units). In 2023, MTA unveiled a plan to fully transition its 5,800-bus fleet to zero-emission vehicles by 2040.
“Our 25-year partnership with the MTA has been built on trust, innovation and delivering reliable transportation solutions,” said NFI President Chris Stoddart. “This builds upon MTA’s original firm order of 205 Xcelsior CHARGE NG buses.”
NFI says New Flyer’s Xcelsior CHARGE NG™ bus incorporates three distinct technology advancements:
- High-energy batteries.
- Advanced protective battery packaging for easy installation and simpler serviceability.
- A lightweight electric traction drive system with up to 90 percent energy recovery.
Nova Bus
Nova Bus has been awarded a contract for the production of 80 fully electric LFSe+ urban buses for The Regional Municipality of York. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2026, with the buses being manufactured at Nova Bus’s Saint-Eustache (Québec) plant.
“We are thrilled to have been awarded a contract because it not only demonstrates our expertise in electric bus manufacturing, but also reinforces our position as a leader in sustainable public transit solutions. Being at the forefront of the electrification of public transport is a commitment we take very seriously, and this new contract serves as strong evidence of that,” said Nova Bus President Paul Le Houillier.
Nova Bus says the York Region will continue to purchase and deploy electric buses to help support their goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. The region aims to have a fully electric bus fleet by 2050 and once in service, the whole electric bus fleet is expected to reduce emissions by approximately 15,982 metric tons annually.
The LFSe+ buses feature fully electrified accessories. Equipped with two charging options, the LFSe+ buses support overhead charging via a pantograph, as well as a plug-in system, ensuring complete adaptability to existing charging infrastructure and facilitating efficient route planning. Nova Bus notes the modular battery design allows storage of up to 564 kWh of onboard energy, optimizing operational efficiency and sustainability.
Brandon Lewis | Associate Editor
Brandon Lewis is a recent graduate of Kent State University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Lewis is a former freelance editorial assistant at Vehicle Service Pros in Endeavor Business Media’s Vehicle Repair Group. Lewis brings his knowledge of web managing, copyediting and SEO practices to Mass Transit Magazine as an associate editor. He is also a co-host of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast.
