Fuel Cell Project is Underway

News Articles
05/06/2003

AC Transit has gained support from federal, state and regional sources to initiate a major industry road-test of a new zero-emission fuel cell bus engine that is vying to become the clean-air transportation solution of tomorrow.

With more than $14 million in grants in hand, the District is acquiring at least seven fuel cell buses and setting up the infrastructure necessary to operate and service them. AC Transit plans on undertaking a major road test, slated for 2003, to demonstrate the practicality and marketplace viability of this space-age clean-air technology.

A wonder of the 21st century, the fuel cell engine emits only pure water from the tail pipe, combining renewable resources of hydrogen and oxygen to generate electric power that, quietly and smoothly, propels the bus.

The fleet-sized road-test will operate zero-emission buses in real world conditions, transporting passengers for thousands of miles of revenue service on the hills, highways and byways of the East Bay. With the supporting infrastructure in place, the District will be ready to rapidly expand the zero-emission fleet.

AC Transit is active in California’s Fuel Cell Partnership, a unique collaboration of public and private sector agencies and organizations working to advance this new clean-air technology, moving the world to practical, affordable environmental solutions.

Low-Emission Diesels Hit the Road

In an innovative “repowering” program that will advance regional clean-air efforts, the District’s Central Maintenance Facility is replacing conventional diesel engines with new state-of-the-art low-emission diesels.

A dozen aging buses have now been updated with installation of the powerful new engines plus the electrical and fueling systems necessary to operate them. As it replaces the mechanical and electrical systems, CMF also puts the coaches through the bodywork and paint shops.

Initiated by a $659,000 grant from the Port of Oakland, this important program has now been expanded through a $1.8 million allocation from the regional Metropolitan In addition to their contributions to cleaner air, refurbished buses provide better fuel mileage (and thus lower operating costs), improved drivability and greater durability.