Now is an excellent time for K12 “yellow” school buses, college campus transportation, and public transit systems to transition to zero-emission electric buses instead of traditional gas or diesel-powered models.
Key factors driving this shift include substantial federal and state financial incentives that cover a significant portion of the price, the availability of U.S. manufactured electric buses, and advancements in engineering and battery technology that have dramatically improved ranges and lowered initial investment costs.
Decades ago, the reputation of school buses as gross polluters was well deserved. For many, yellow school buses evoke memories of black smoke belching from the tailpipe, backfires, and noxious fumes wafting into the air—not to mention the main cabin. Those older diesel engines emitted up to 20 times more air pollution, such as hazardous air toxins and asthma-inducing particulate matter, compared to modern engines with advanced pollution controls.
Electric buses offer a quiet, clean transportation experience for both students and riders. With zero tailpipe emissions, they significantly reduce air pollution and operate with minimal sound, reducing noise pollution. Depending on the region’s electricity mix, electric buses can produce 1.4 to 7.7 times fewer emissions.
Recent advancements in battery technology have increased ranges to 100-150 miles per charge, making buses a prime candidate for electrification.
Compelling rationale
K12 school routes in urban and suburban areas typically span 5–15 miles per trip, while routes in some rural districts can range from 50–75 miles daily. Similarly, university transportation systems, including shuttle services connecting main campuses and health science campuses, are ideal for such applications. Private and public transportation providers across the U.S. and Canada also stand to benefit significantly.
The financial rationale for electric buses is extremely compelling, as both federal and state authorities provide substantial incentives, including EPA grants, rebates, and voucher programs, to offset the initial investment. In many cases, application procedures have been simplified and disbursement of funds expedited for the replacement of existing buses.
One of the most notable subsidy programs is the Clean School Bus Program, created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to lower school bus emissions, enhance air quality and protect children’s health.
Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the program allocates $5 billion over five years to replace existing school buses with zero-emission and low-emission models. Each fiscal year, $500 million is available for zero-emission buses, and an additional $500 million is available for zero-emission and other low-emission buses.
In June 2024, one manufacturer of electric commercial vehicles announced it had sold a fleet of its buses in Arkansas and Texas in conjunction with an EPA award. The buses are available with standard or extended-range battery pack options that provide a range between 150 and 200 miles on a fully charged battery.
U.S.-based manufacturers have moved beyond concepts and early prototypes to full production. Like the most popular consumer electric vehicles, the electric school bus utilizes a combination of aluminum for the body and high-strength steel in its construction.
Aluminum reduces vehicle weight by approximately 20%, which means less energy is required to move the bus and increases vehicle range. A lighter vehicle also enhances acceleration, braking, and handling.
The aluminum body is 95% recyclable, much like a large soda can. Aluminum can be repeatedly melted and reshaped without any loss of its core characteristics or material quality. Recycling aluminum helps prevent additional greenhouse gas emissions in the future.
‘Cost savings is a big driver’
Texas’ Kopperl Independent School District (Kopperl ISD), which is about 90 minutes southwest of Dallas, was awarded three electric school buses to transport students along regular routes.
Superintendent Katrina Adcock believes it was an opportunity to upgrade the bus fleet and that Kopperl ISD was able to save substantial money as a recipient of the award. “The total for the district for three buses is less than what we would have had to pay for one gas-powered bus. The cost savings is a big driver,” she said.
According to Adcock, she has already been asked by a neighboring school district superintendent what they need to do to get electric buses.
Some noteworthy programs include California’s Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project, which offers significant rebates. Maryland’s efforts in Montgomery County highlight a major investment in electric buses through a public-private partnership.
The electric school bus market is growing, with thousands of units deployed or on order globally. The time is now. Electric school buses are available and federal and state money are waiting for applicants to apply for the funds.
