The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) returned its CTtransit battery electric buses to service on Monday.
The buses have been out of service since July 2022. The manufacturer recalled the buses after a thermal problem caused by a design defect prompted a national recall. The buses had monitoring software and battery thermal management systems installed to correct the defect.
Before returning to service, the buses were thoroughly inspected and road tested to ensure their system updates and enhancements meet the public transportation network needs.
Bus operators and workers in the maintenance and charging units received enhanced training and procedures.
“The return of these battery electric buses is part of Connecticut’s comprehensive effort to improve the quality of life in Connecticut by keeping our air clean,” CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said. “These buses operate in areas that are disproportionately burdened by air pollution, and removing diesel emissions is vital to the health and wellbeing of all our residents. In addition to having no emissions, these buses are quieter, provide a smoother ride, and have lower maintenance costs than diesel vehicles.”
CTDOT worked closely with CTtransit; New Flyer, the bus manufacturer; and ABB, a charger manufacturer.
The buses are classified as zero-emission vehicles.