The Ride - Ann Arbor Transportation Authority

PRESS RELEASE

Friday, December 23, 2011

Ann Arbor Transportation Authority Adds 10 New Buses, Over 50% of Fleet Now Hybrid

Ann Arbor, MI – The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (TheRide) is proud to announce the addition of 10 new hybrid buses which are expected to be on the road next week. The arrival of the hybrid buses will allow TheRide to retire aging and less efficient buses that were originally purchased in 1996. In January, 2012, two of the new vehicles will also be used to provide improved frequency along Washtenaw Avenue, contributing to the county’s Reimagine Washtenaw Project.

“With 41 buses (51% of our fleet) now using hybrid technology, TheRide now stands out as one of the greenest transit agencies in the nation,” said TheRide CEO Michael Ford. “Not only will they help us save on fuel, operating and maintenance costs, but our community will be able to enjoy the benefits of reduced emissions and quieter buses.”

The $6.4 million cost for the hybrid electric-diesel buses was paid through a combination of a $1.697 million Federal Transportation Administration Clean Fuels Grant, federal formula funds, and state matching funds. Last year, hybrid vehicles saved TheRide 95,000 gallons of bio-diesel, and $283,000 in fuel costs.

The more environmentally and economically responsible, passenger and community friendly buses were manufactured by California-based Gillig, LLC and meet all Buy America requirements stipulated in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. All of the iron, steel and manufactured materials used in the buses were produced in the United States.

The latest information on AATA routes, schedules and detours is available at 734.996.0400 and on the AATA Routes and Schedules page.