Lightning Systems, a global developer of zero-emission drivetrains, delivered the first two units on an initial order of six Lightning Electric Ford Transit 350HD wheel-chair accessible passenger vans to Freebee, an operator of on-demand public transportation in the South Florida region.

Freebee serves local communities through municipal transportation contracts, using a microtransit model which provides passengers with free door-to-door rides.

Many of Freebee’s vehicles are in the low-speed electric class, but the requirement for higher passenger capacities and on-freeway operation has led Freebee to evaluate and deploy electric Transit vans. After an extensive evaluation, Freebee selected Lightning Systems.

Unlike scheduled transit buses, Freebee’s routes are not consistent. This makes it critical to know the vehicles’ locations and state of battery charge at all times. Lightning Analytics, the sophisticated data capture and analysis platform implemented on all of Lightning’s vehicles, is key. 

Freebee’s choice of battery-electric vehicles aligns with their mission of reducing the carbon footprint associated with local transportation. This also contributes to municipal sustainability goals, as well as providing cleaner air on the roads.

The vans delivered to Freebee went into service almost immediately after delivery.