Knoxville Area Transit to Add New Flyer Electric Buses

Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) has awarded New Flyer a five-year contract for 12 Xcelsior battery-electric, 35-foot heavy-duty transit buses, with options to purchase up to 13 additional zero-emission buses in 35- or 40-foot lengths throughout the remaining term of the agreement.

“This contract includes charging infrastructure encompassing six depot chargers, one portable trailer-mounted charger, and design-build support from New Flyer Infrastructure Solutions, including installation services, software and software services, training, warranties, and commissioning,” said Chris Stoddart, New Flyer’s President. “Working with KAT on a comprehensive mobility solution, including both buses and infrastructure, will ensure an optimized approach to the design and deployment of zero-emission mobility.”

KAT delivers approximately three million passenger trips per year in Knoxville, Tenn.

In December 2019, KAT celebrated the purchase of its first New Flyer battery-electric transit bus during a ribbon cutting ceremony featuring the Mayor and councilmembers. With over 44% of the community’s emissions coming from transportation, KAT and the City of Knoxville have been transitioning to sustainable mobility over recent years, with over 30% of its current fleet as hybrid electric vehicles.

To provide support in planning and transitioning to electric, New Flyer Infrastructure Solutions will work closely with leading firms Siemens, ABB, ChargePoint, Burns & McDonnell, and Black & Veatch.

Originally posted on Metro Magazine