Electric bus transitions show varying progress in Bermuda and New York

Bermuda’s Department of Public Transportation has received its latest shipment of 10 electric buses from Golden Dragon Bus Company. This arrival is part of a multi-stage effort to reach a total fleet of 110 electric buses by 2027, with the goal of achieving 100 per cent electrification by 2030. The government intends to retire older diesel vehicles as the new fleet expands to improve service reliability and reduce operating costs.

In contrast, a state comptroller audit indicates that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York City is unlikely to meet its goal of an all-electric bus fleet by 2040. The audit cited production delays, a heavy reliance on single manufacturers, and reliability issues with currently deployed electric models. MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber stated that current electric buses have ‘not been up to standards,’ noting that reliability must be met before further purchases continue. The transition in New York City faces significant financial hurdles, with electric buses costing approximately 60 per cent more than diesel alternatives.