United in their commitment to enhancing the sustainability of the bi-state St. Louis region, representatives from Bi-State Development, Metro Transit and several partners and regional stakeholders gathered on June 29 for the official launch of the first electric buses into service on the MetroBus system. The launch marks one of the largest initial electric bus fleet deployments in the nation.

“This project will provide tremendous cost-saving and environmental benefits for the bi-state community,” said Taulby Roach, President and Chief Executive Officer at Bi-State Development. “Metro Transit will be leaner and greener by introducing this battery electric bus technology, not just with the buses on high volume routes, but also through the charging infrastructure and operating facilities. We’re proud to celebrate this win for our region with our many partners who helped to make it possible.”

Rose Windmiller, Chair of the Bi-State Development Board of Commissioners, speaking at the event:

Metro purchased four 40-foot battery electric buses made by GILLIG, with six more of those GILLIG vehicles to follow later this year. All of the vehicles are zero-emission buses funded through various FTA grants (70-80%) and local sales tax sources (20-30%) and will offer similar cost savings and environmental benefits.

“We’re honored to partner with Metro to bring innovative, zero-emission transit to St. Louis communities,” said Bill Fay, GILLIG Vice President of Sales. “We’ve delivered over 600 reliable and durable buses to the agency since we began partnering more than 20 years ago. With our battery electric product, Saint Louis is operating a high-performing, safe bus that is consistently on route, transporting customers efficiently and helping the region provide for environmental sustainability.”

Click here for more information about Metro Transit’s Electric Bus program.