COMET is keeping Columbia moving, but it may not hit the gas. The transit system unveiled four new zero-emission buses: two New Flyer Xcelsior CHARGE electric battery buses + two New Flyer 40' Xcelsior hydrogen fuel cell buses.
These are COMET’s first-ever zero-emission vehicles and will replace four diesel buses that have reached the end of their lifespan. The effort is powered by a $2.9 million grant awarded by the Federal Transit Administration’s Low or No Emission Grant Program in 2021 and is supported by Richland County’s Transportation Penny Sales Tax Referendum.
The new vehicles are expected to eliminate 540 tons of annual greenhouse gas emissions, leading to healthier air, but the benefits don’t stop there. The vehicles also enhance the transit experience with:
- Lower operating costs, including cheaper fuel and fewer service needs.
- Fewer service outages due to the reduced likelihood of maintenance.
- A quieter experience compared to diesel fuel buses.
Want to take a ride? The zero-emission buses will be integrated into daily routes beginning in May. Vehicles can be spotted with their blue designs and “zero emission” labels on the back.
The clean energy buses are part of state-wide objectives to reduce carbon emissions, as outlined in its Momentum 2050 plan, making the Midlands a leader in the effort.
Along with the buses, COMET has used funding to install infrastructure to refuel vehicles, and the technology will allow them to go the distance. Electric buses get up to 254 miles per charge, while the hydrogen fuel cell buses get up to 370 miles per refill.
