The Federal Transit Administration awarded $84.9 million in grants to 38 projects in 38 states on July 26 via its Low- or No-Emission or “Low-No” program that funds transit bus projects centered around “advanced propulsion” technologies.

Eligible projects include the purchase or lease of buses powered by technologies such as hydrogen fuel cells, battery-electric engines, and related infrastructure investments such as charging stations.

“Since its establishment, FTA’s Low-No program has funded over $300 million in new buses, infrastructure, and training,” noted FTA Acting Administrator K. Jane Williams in a statement.

[Here’s an on-the-ground look at how one transit agency – Dallas Area Rapid Transit – is putting all-electric buses into operation.]



State departments of transportation receiving funds from this latest round of “Low-No” program grants include:

• The District Department of Transportation is getting $2.6 million to purchase battery electric buses that will replace diesel-powered models now reaching the end of their useful life.


• The Maryland Department of Transportation is receiving $2.2 million to purchase battery electric buses and charging stations to determine the effectiveness of incorporating electric vehicles into a 95-vehicle fleet operating in Prince George’s County.


• The Massachusetts Department of Transportation gets $2.2 million to purchase electric buses and install charging infrastructure.