There have been improvements in electric school bus options within the last 2 years that make them worth considering. Here is some information to help dispel many of the myths about these buses.
The upfront cost of an electric school bus is approximately $350,000. The thing that makes electric buses cost effective is the fact that maintenance and fuel costs are significantly lower than diesel buses. This makes them cost-competitive over the life of the bus if you consider the total cost of ownership.
There are financial incentives available in Illinois to purchase electric school buses. The state has allocated $10.9 million of the VW settlement money for electric school buses. Grants were awarded for the purchase of 3 buses – one in Chicago and 2 in the western suburbs – leaving Illinois with almost $10 million in funding for this program. The grant funds pay for 75% of the cost of the bus.
Electric buses perform well in the cold. The most electric school buses in North America are in Canada, there is one operating in Minnesota and 5 in White Plains, NY. Regarding range, one of the first pilots in Massachusetts (where it gets cold) ran 3 tests – urban, rural and suburban. They assumed they would have to recharge midday, but it wasn’t necessary. Instead, most electric buses are able to charge at night when electricity costs are cheaper. Current bus batteries should serve 80% or more of all school district runs in the country, and batteries may need to be replaced after 8 years.
There are health benefits to riding electric buses. According to this study by the University of Michigan School of Public Health, kids riding diesel buses contributes to school absences, slower lung development and asthma. Electric buses are not only cleaner, but also quieter, calmer, and more pleasant, which may help to improve ridership experience and increase the number of kids riding the bus to school.
Technology keeps improving. There are more electric buses coming out all the time. They come in all sizes and types, and from many manufacturers. These buses are cost-effective and a fiscally and environmentally responsible option for schools. I encourage school districts to look into electric school buses before making any further purchases for their fleets.
