LA Metro Approves Purchase of 220 Non-Polluting Electric Buses
Landmark investment is second largest electric transit bus purchase in the nation
Contacts
Danielle Kelton, danielle@keltoncommunications.com
Today, LA Metro approved a historic investment in 220 non-polluting electric buses. This landmark investment is the second largest electric transit bus purchase in the nation, and will electrify over 10% of LA Metro’s bus fleet. Before this investment, LA Metro had electrified just under 7% of its buses. Once built, these buses will operate in El Monte and Carson, two communities overburdened with deadly air pollution.
“We enthusiastically support LA Metro for this historic investment in 220 new non-polluting buses,” said Earthjustice attorney Candice Youngblood. “Public transit is an essential piece of Los Angeles’ infrastructure, and transitioning the fleet from fossil fuels to non-polluting buses will deliver cleaner air and a more resilient transit system. Angelenos deserve this modern upgrade.”
Battery-electric buses cut harmful tailpipe emissions, are far quieter vehicles for both riders and neighborhoods, and help advance climate and clean air goals. These benefits are especially important for communities living near major bus routes and for Metro’s riders and bus operators.
This purchase is particularly urgent as Los Angeles prepares for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Games present a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase that Los Angeles is building a clean, modern transit system. This Metro procurement will provide cleaner, quieter service during the Games while delivering lasting public health benefits to the riders and operators who depend on buses long after the Games are over. Earthjustice joined several labor unions in supporting a new resolution to ensure good jobs in the clean energy economy.
Los Angeles is now on track to electrify 20% of its fleet and is within striking distance of keeping up with the rest of the world. Paris electrified nearly 1,000 buses by the 2024 Summer Games. Milan, which hosted the 2026 Winter Games, electrified half their bus fleet. Brisbane is setting an ambitious course for the 2032 Summer Games too.
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