CTA electric buses hit the streets of Chicago – and more in the years to come

CTA electric buses hit the streets of Chicago – and more in the years to come

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CHICAGO – The Chicago Transit Authority is testing CTA electric buses, part of a years-long effort to reform the city’s fleet.

CTA launched six “prototypes” of electric buses along Route 66 in Chicago, the agency announced on Friday. The buses are picking up passengers.

If the tests go well, CTA will launch another 17 electric buses, officials said.

CTA’s long-term goal is to replace all existing buses with electric buses by 2040. The city is looking to reduce emissions and improve air quality, but also to save money on fuel and maintenance. Electric buses also offer a “smoother and quieter ride,” officials said.

Credit: CTA
An electric bus at one of the newly installed charging stations in the city.

In a press release, CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. said the plan is “just an example of how CTA is committed to adding more green vehicles, addressing climate change and being more environmentally conscious”.

CTA is working with Proterra, a company that manufactures electric buses for more than 60 transit agencies and other customers. Each electric bus costs about $ 900,000, officials said.

CTA has also installed five “fast charging” electrical stations at Navy Pier, Chicago / Austin bus stops and the Chicago Avenue garage. A single charge allows buses to travel 75-120 miles, officials said.

CTA started testing electric buses in 2014. Both buses performed well, which led the city to buy more and continue on the path of replacing the city’s fleet.

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