For The Transit Fans: Manufacturer Profile: Proterra
Proterra Inc, is an American manufacturer of all electric-powered transit vehicles and on route fast charging systems for those vehicles.
Foothill Transit Proterra BE35 Ecoliner
Manufacturer Quick Facts:
Proterra Inc
Founded: 2004, in Golden, Colorado
Main Office: Greenville, South Carolina
Notable Product: BE35 Ecoliner
The Proterra Ecoliner is a zero emissions transit bus with fast charging capabilities. The Federal Government in its push to lower the carbon footprint sets aside money for the development of transit vehicles with zero or reduced emissions. Receiving funding through private investors and the Government, Proterra aims to provide transit vehicles to major agencies across the US and Canada. Proterra has taken a demonstrator to various transit agencies across the US and a few have taken orders for the bus.
Equipment Profile: Ecoliner 40/V2
Type: Zero Emissions Single Deck Low Floor
Chassis: 40 or 35 Feet. Removable rear axle battery packs
Engine: 2 Low Voltage Group 31 700 12V Batteries, Separated Battery Temperature Management
Horsepower: 0-20 in 6.8 Seconds
Seating Capacity: 77, 40 Seated 37 Standing
Transmission: 220 kW Peak Permanent Magnet Drive Motor, 2 Speed Automatic
Length: 42 feet 6 inches
Width: 102 inches
Proterra hopes to eventually replace all other transit buses on the market by promising to save transit operators money. The bus itself is not what saves money but lower operating costs by saving money overtime. By not having to spend money on Diesel fuel, spare parts and maintenance usually associated with engine repair, Proterra claims their product will save companies money. The buses work by quick charging two very powerful rear axle mounted batteries. Roof mounted equipment makes contact with a charging station which can be placed on route at bus stops and charges in 5 minutes providing 26 miles per charge or 300 miles a day.
Proterra Ecoliner 40 V2
On tour cross country Proterra has been only mildly successful as many transit operators are skeptical of the untested technology in a practical setting. Others cannot accept orders for a few years due to contracts with other companies for bus procurement. The only notable investor in this technology and Proterra being General Motors it will take time for it to catch on if it ever does.
Proterra Ecoliner 40 on Demonstration with SEPTA in Philadelphia
Proterra BE35's in use with Foothill Transit
My guess is that this bus will only be feasible by smaller transit agencies such as Municipalities due to the fact that charging will be an issue for larger metropolitan agencies.
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