UM to Become First US Campus to Launch Fast-Charging, Zero-Emission Electric Buses
MISSOULA – The Associated Students of the University of Montana will launch its first zero-emission vehicles on Friday, Sept. 30, following a decision to “go electric” with its fleet.
“After years of planning and anticipation, we’re proud to unveil our first electric bus to the campus community,” said Jordan Hess, director of the ASUM Office of Transportation. “The UDASH service and this electric bus project are testaments to the advocacy, involvement and entrepreneurial spirit of our student body. In the long run, these vehicles will reduce our carbon footprint while delivering substantial cost savings to the University.”
Vehicle manufacturer Proterra offers fast-charging electric vehicles, and ASUM is its first university client. ASUM Transportation ordered two 40-foot Catalyst fast-charge buses and a charging station for its campus routes in February following years of planning. The first of those vehicles arrives in Missoula this week, and Homecoming parade watchers will get to see the new vehicle with its lively graphic design and near-silent operation.
“As stewards of everything ‘under the big sky,’ we all have a responsibility to protect our planet and our communities from the heavy impact of diesel pollution,” said Ryan Popple, president and CEO of Proterra. “We salute the University of Montana as the first college in the nation to adopt Proterra zero-emission buses. We hope this example inspires other academic institutions to follow suit.