CARTA announced today that it will place its’ new all-electric transit buses into service this week. These brand new 35-foot all-electric transit buses will be added to CARTA’s fixed route service fleet.
These electric buses were manufactured by BYD (Build Your Dream) in Lancaster, CA. Founded in 1995, BYD is known as “the official sponsor of Mother Nature”.
CARTA’s Executive Director Lisa Maragnano states, “Through our partnership with BYD and Momentum Dynamics, that produces the inductive wireless charging system for the buses, CARTA is excited about our new 35-foot electric buses. They charge fast and efficiently and can travel up to 150 miles on a single charge and run emissions free all day. CARTA has a 27-year history of providing service with all-electric vehicles on our Downtown Shuttle. It was the obvious next step to transition from diesel buses to all-electric buses on our fixed route service because of the lessons learned and the successful program that is currently in place.”
"BYD’s 35-foot battery-operated electric transit bus is the first of its kind in service worldwide," officials said.
"What sets BYD apart is the high performance of its vehicles, the long-lasting battery life, its commitment to being eco-friendly, the affordability of its vehicles compared to diesel, CNG and hybrid alternatives and its safety features."
“CARTA is excited about this opportunity to expand our electric bus fleet,” Mrs. Maragnano said. “The addition of these vehicles will enhance the services provided to the citizens of Chattanooga and Hamilton County for a better quality of life.”