Mayor Unveils First of Four LADOT Transit Pure Electric Buses; DASH Fleet Expands
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti recently unveiled a new 35-foot zero-emission, pure electric bus that will become part of the City of Los Angeles Department of Transportation’s LADOT Transit fleet. The addition of this pure electric bus is another example of LADOT Transit’s long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability. The electric bus will join LADOT Transit’s DASH Downtown fleet. The ceremony took place at LADOT’s contracted bus maintenance facility. The addition of the pure electric bus to the LADOT Transit fleet moves the city closer to achieving Mayor Garcetti’s Sustainable City pLAn goals.
The 35-foot heavy-duty bus was manufactured in Lancaster, California by BYD North America. It is one of four buses being added to the LADOT Transit DASH fleet. The buses are powered by a BYD proprietary iron-phosphate battery that allows for a range of up to 145 miles on a single charge.
“Reducing carbon emissions is an important part of modernizing L.A.’s transportation system, and adding this electric bus to LADOT’s fleet shows that we can improve service and stay true to the goals in my Sustainable City pLAn,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti. “When Angelenos board this bus, they can breathe easier — knowing that they can get where they’re going, while doing their part for the environment and helping to keep our air clean.”
"The addition of this new zero-emission electric bus to the LADOT fleet is the next step toward a cleaner and more sustainable future for Los Angeles," said Councilmember Mike Bonin, who chairs the Council's Transportation Committee. "I am thrilled that LADOT continues to lead the transit industry in championing new technologies and I am proud to that we will be able to provide DASH riders exceptional services without adding harmful pollution to our air."
“The entire LADOT Transit fleet already utilizes clean air fuels, and now it becomes one of just a handful of transit agencies in the US committing itself to pure electric technology,” said Councilmember José Huizar. “As the second largest city in the nation, the City of Los Angeles is absolutely dedicated to sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint at every level possible. These new electric buses are a reflection of our commitment and a welcomed addition to our Downtown Los Angeles fleet.”
Seleta Reynolds, LADOT’s general manager said, “LADOT Transit continues to be a source of innovation and inspiration for Los Angeles County. Today we are adding the cleanest technology available in public transit to our fleet of 400 vehicles to continue to thank our riders for choosing to ride LADOT Transit. Keep your eyes out for the special design on these beautiful buses; take a ride; and tell us what you think!"
“The California Energy Commission is pleased to see the long-term commitment of LADOT Transit to clean air, low emissions technologies. LADOT is showing itself to be a leader in the transition to zero emission vehicles that we encourage other transit agencies to learn from and follow,” said John Kato, deputy director of the fuels and transportation division of The California Energy Commission.
"This funding from the Energy Commission is playing a critical role in helping LADOT become a leader in the zero emission transit sector. LADOT's commitment to zero emission buses is helping to reduce harmful emissions and create local jobs," said CALSTART President and CEO John Boesel.
