Embracing innovative technologies
Building on our success with CNG, MARTA is now fully embracing battery-electric bus technology, a critical step in our journey toward zero emissions. We have successfully integrated six battery-electric buses into our fleet, and we’re planning to continue investing in new vehicles along with necessary infrastructure in the coming years. These buses reflect our commitment to sustainability and represent a transformative chapter in MARTA’s strategy to reduce our carbon footprint and enhance service for Atlanta residents.
To support this initiative, we are developing a robust infrastructure, including high-capacity charging stations at key facilities like the Laredo garage and a new multi-purpose operations and maintenance bus facility in Clayton County. With additional chargers on order, this proactive approach ensures that MARTA’s electric bus program can scale effectively, maximizing operational efficiency and minimizing disruptions.
Strategic partnerships drive progress
The success of MARTA’s zero-emissions program is bolstered by our strategic partnerships. Collaborating with federal agencies has been essential in securing the necessary resources to advance our initiatives. Additionally, support from local utility providers and industry innovators has played a crucial role in developing the infrastructure required to support our transition to electric buses.
By working closely with thought leaders in energy and transit innovation, we are building a sustainable transportation network for the future. These collaborations enable MARTA to meet its ambitious sustainability goals while continuing to provide reliable transportation service to Atlanta. As a result, our community benefits directly from these efforts, experiencing cleaner air and quieter streets.
Engaging utility partners early in our planning processes streamlines infrastructure development and offers valuable insights beyond traditional route planning. Our utility partners have also assisted us in managing electric battery charging to lower electricity costs, taking advantage of off-peak pricing, and better understanding our charging behavior for improved equipment maintenance. This collaborative approach not only optimizes operational efficiency but also positions MARTA to assume a broader leadership role in the transit industry.
Mindful of our responsibility to address industry-wide challenges, MARTA has partnered with organizations such as the Center for Transportation Excellence, the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, the American Public Transportation Association and the Getting to Zero Coalition. Together, we are advancing battery technology and supporting manufacturers in scaling up production to meet the growing demand.
As we engage with key partners to drive industry-wide progress, we are also committed to tracking our own sustainability advancements. Our dashboard, which integrates fuel management data, enables us to measure the impact of our battery-electric buses compared to traditional diesel vehicles. By quantifying the reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, we provide our research and sustainability teams with actionable insights to guide decision-making and report progress to our stakeholders.
Collie Greenwood