CA: RTA Unveils First Near Zero Emission Engine

The Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) has unveiled its first near-zero natural gas vehicle. The agency’s latest push for cleaner air has resulted in a near-zero engine aboard a 40-foot bus. On the outside, the 40-foot bus looks similar to others in the fleet. It has the same 280-horsepower and runs on compressed natural gas. But what sets this bus apart is its suped-up engine which takes thinking green to a whole new level.

The ISL G 280 NZ engine was installed in December. The new engine has a 90 percent reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions and 15 percent reduction in greenhouse gases, compared to RTA’s already clean-burning engines.

The new engine gets better performance due to an enhanced control system that monitors sensors, and fuel and ignition systems. Other factors include a three-way catalyst that’s packaged as part of the muffler and provides consistent emissions control, and closed crankcase ventilation system that reduces emissions.

“RTA is proud to be a long-time advocate of cleaner, greener technologies,” said RTA Chair Linda Krupa. “This is another example of how we are exploring new and innovative ways to travel.”

The 1,625-pound super engine, made by Vancouver-based Cummins Westport Inc., was made possible by a $10,000 grant from the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

In 1988, prior to today’s laws that regulate bus emissions, RTA was among the first transit systems in the nation to operate low-emission methanol buses. When RTA’s Riverside headquarters was built in 1986, it included a separate fueling system for alternative clean fuels. The drive for cleaner fuel didn’t stop there. In 2001, the agency took its biggest step by replacing its entire fleet of diesel buses with compressed natural gas buses.