CATS modernizes fleet with addition of new electric buses

 CATS modernizes fleet with addition of new electric buses

June 21, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CATS adds three new electric buses to fleet as agency expands focus on service reliability and environmental sustainability 

BATON ROUGE, La. (June 21, 2021) – The Capital Area Transit System (CATS) has secured three new electric buses, doubling the agency's electric bus count. The new electric buses are now in operation across all routes, upholding CATS' dedication to improved service and environmental sustainability.

“Adding new electric buses to our fleet contributes to our goal of having one of the most modern and reliable transit fleets in the nation,” said CATS CEO Bill Deville. “Not only do we expect performance to increase, but these buses also aid in reducing carbon emissions so CATS can continue to do its part in creating a cleaner, more environmentally friendly Baton Rouge. These buses are the direct result of our continued focus on aggressively pursuing and securing federal funds to support local transit operations and infrastructure.”

The new electric buses are all zero emission and powered by iron-phosphate liquid cooled batteries. At 35 feet in length and with 32-passenger seating capacity and 28-passenger standing capacity, the buses also feature COVID-19 safety features such as driver barriers.

CATS secured the electric buses through competitive federal grant funding from the FTA. Eventually, the buses will operate on the state’s first bus rapid transit (BRT) corridor, which when completed in 2024, will be supported entirely by electric buses.

CATS is the public transportation provider for the cities of Baton Rouge and Baker and delivers more than 200,000 passenger trips each month. The agency provides service seven days a week, 363 days a year. For more information, visit brcats.com.

###