Driving Environmental Awareness

Texas A&M is driving toward the future as the first university in the state to operate electric buses within its fleet.

In partnership with the Brazos Transit District, Texas A&M Transportation Services was able to share a $14 million federal grant, funding three electric buses as well as 24 new diesel buses to replace aging models.

Environmental friendliness is only one benefit of these new vehicles. Electric buses, while more expensive to purchase initially, are more cost-efficient in the long run with no emissions or fuel expenses. Without diesel engines, the buses also make very little noise, so as a safety feature, there is an audible chime announcing turns to pedestrians.

After almost a month of driver training and performance tests, the electric buses officially hit the road in a ceremony on Aug. 10 and can be seen around campus, sporting a green and maroon wrap proudly announcing their eco-friendly status. While it may take some time, Transportation Services Director Madeline Dillard said an all-electric fleet is a possibility for the future.

“These first three buses are a great start to electrification,” she said, “and so far, we are very pleased with their performance.”