So far, clean air requirements have been a driving force behind the move to alternative-fuel buses. But putting such buses on the road requires government leadership. Federal research programs to continue developing these technologies, as well as transit funding programs that help purchase advanced buses, are critical. Some local transit authorities have already made a commitment to purchase the cleanest buses available. These forward-thinking agencies offer an excellent model for transit authorities nationwide.
Clean buses are a reality today.
Nearly 1 bus in 20 is now powered by alternative fuels. Combustion buses using natural gas are transporting people in Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, and Portland. Fuel cell buses will be cleaning the air in Chicago this summer and in Vancouver, British Columbia, within the year. As more cities join the caravan, advances in bus technology will draw all our vehicles toward a cleaner future.