WORK WE'RE DOING

Modernizing Transit Fleets

Overview

The Modernizing Transit Fleets project aims to create a comprehensive resource guide and toolkit for Virginia’s transit agencies that wish to transition their fleets to low- and zero-emission vehicles. This project builds on the analysis conducted through the House Joint Resolution 542 Transit Modernization Study, with a focus on gathering resources for rural and small-urban transit agencies that may have fewer resources to take advantage of technological advancements and federal funding opportunities.

The project explores a variety of topics related to low- and zero-emissions bus deployment and heavily engages with industry, utility, and agency stakeholders. The project is motivated by continued interest from partner agencies to transition to low- and zero-emission fleets and Federal Transit Administration’s ongoing funding opportunities.

Alexandria DASH

Process

DRPT’s comprehensive guidebook for planning zero-emissions fleet transitions will be published in the summer of 2024, including:

  • Agency readiness checklist
  • Utility engagement and planning guidance
  • Workforce development best practices for change management
  • Transit agency financial analysis tool
  • Transit agency emissions reductions modeling tool using EPA’s MOVES4 model
  • FTA-compliant agency transition plan template

Contact Information

To reach out to the project team, please contact Daniel Wagner via email or mail.

Email: daniel.wagner@drpt.virginia.gov and include ‘Low- and Zero-Emission Bus Guide’ in the subject line.

Office Address:

Richmond Office Headquarters
Attn: Daniel Wagner
600 East Main Street, Suite 2102
Richmond, VA 23219

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a zero-emission bus? What is a low-emission bus?

A low-emissions bus includes vehicles such as hybrid electric buses or natural gas buses that have a lesser environmental impact than traditional diesel and gasoline counterparts. This includes both fossil-fueled vehicles and those powered with renewable fuels.

A zero-emissions bus uses charge from an on-board battery to power an electric motor and releases zero harmful tailpipe emissions. This includes battery-electric buses and fuel cell electric buses (powered by hydrogen).

What are the desired project outcomes?
The project aims to provide DRPT and its partner agencies with information and tools to advance the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles. Specific outcomes include:

  • An evaluation of readiness for both the electric grid and other alternative fuel distribution systems within and nearby the Commonwealth
  • An evaluation of the financial hurdles and opportunities of low- and zero-emissions bus transitions
  • An understanding of needs and opportunities to support workforce development
  • A comprehensive toolkit that aids agencies in stakeholder engagement, understanding the process and technical requirements for low- and zero-emissions transition, and conducting their own FTA-compliant low- and zero-emissions transition plan

How can I get involved?
If you are a zero- and low-emission bus industry stakeholder, utility provider, and/or a transit agency providing services in the Commonwealth, please reach out to our project team to get involved.

If you are a member of the public, all project updates and materials will be posted to this website. Please visit back at project milestones to review final documents.