Arlington Introduces 2 New Electric School Buses

ARLINGTON, MA — The Town of Arlington officially launched two new electric school buses late last month, according to officials.

The buses are part of Arlington's Net Zero Action Plan, which is designed to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Eventually, the town hopes to electrify the entire school bus fleet.

According to town officials, the new electric buses, which were launched at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 23, will displace approximately 4,300 gallons of diesel fuel annually and prevent emissions of 48.24 tons of carbon dioxide.

"Electrification of Arlington's school bus fleet is critical to student health, as well as to the town's efforts to mitigate climate change," said Dr. Elizabeth Homan, superintendent of Arlington Public Schools. "We are committed to ensuring that our students can learn and thrive in healthy environments, and the school system is proud to contribute to Arlington's electrification goals."

The new buses, officials said, will have a 135-mil range and the ability to charge in approximately three to four hours. Two new, direct-current fast chargers have been installed at the Ottoson Middle School.

The buses and charging stations were purchased with nearly $900,000 in state and federal grants, according to officials.