First Group of Phoenix Public Transit Hybrid Buses Hit the Road

As the Phoenix Public Transit Department continues working toward its zero-emissions bus fleet goal by 2040, the first group of hybrid buses have passed all tests and are now running on Phoenix roads.

“Phoenix is proud to lead the charge toward a greener future where our residents can breathe cleaner air while getting them to their destinations,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “As we aim to be the most sustainable desert city in the world, we are doing our part to cut emissions, adopt the latest technology, and encourage residents to make climate-conscious decisions. I’m excited to see our brand-new buses hit the road to serve Phoenicians.”

The New Flyer Xcelsior buses can accommodate 35 passengers (53 with maximum standing capacity), have three wheelchair areas, and a driving range of more than 500 miles. ​The buses use a combination of a hybrid-electric motor and batteries and a biodiesel-fueled engine.

“We do our best to serve our riders with a reliable public transit service to get them where they need to go,” said Public Transit Director Jesús Sapien. “And providing cleaner energy buses to our existing fleet is yet another way we are adding to that service.”

Currently, Phoenix Public Transit has a fleet of 500 buses that run on alternative fuels, including natural gas and biodiesel. In August 2022, FTA awarded the agency a grant​ for low and no-emissions buses and supporting infrastructure. The grant is being used to replace aging buses with battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell buses, install new infrastructure, and assist in workforce development to maintain newer bus fleets.