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DASH Adds First Proterra Buses to Growing Electric Fleet

DASH Adds First Proterra Buses to Growing Electric Fleet

July 30, 2021
This page was published on July 30, 2021 and may be out of date.

DASH introduces three new 40-foot, battery-electric Proterra buses to revenue service.

As a part of DASH’s ongoing commitment to the transition to a 100% zero emission fleet, the company introduces three new 40-foot, battery-electric buses to revenue service. Today marks the first full day of revenue service for these buses, manufactured by Proterra. They are the first Proterra buses to be purchased by DASH and the first to operate in Northern Virginia.

“DASH is proud to partner with Proterra, a leading manufacturer of battery-electric buses as a part of our ongoing commitment to building a 100% zero emission bus fleet. The system has already seen great success with our existing electric vehicles, and we are excited to see how these perform in our community. The addition of these buses is just one more step towards our goal of a sustainable fleet and zero emissions.” said Josh Baker, DASH CEO/General Manager.

The new Proterra buses join three zero-emission buses built by another leading manufacturer that were introduced into regular service in September 2020. In addition to these first six, DASH has secured funding for 20 additional electric buses through 2025 thanks to funding from the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority and Department of Rail and Public Transportation. The agency is also planning to expand and upgrade its facility in the coming years to accommodate the growing fleet of electric buses.

Battery electric buses rely completely on rechargeable batteries and do not emit any harmful tailpipe emissions or other greenhouse gasses. In addition to reducing the carbon footprint of public bus service in Alexandria and helping all Alexandrians breathe a little easier, electric buses offer passengers a better experience than conventional or hybrid diesel buses. The engine of an electric bus is more reliable, less costly to maintain, has fewer moving parts, is quieter, and creates a smoother ride for passengers.

“Proterra is proud to support DASH as it accelerates the transition to clean, quiet transportation for all,” said John Walsh, Proterra Senior Vice President. “Our industry-leading electric transit buses have been proven through more than 20 million miles driven across North America. Now, we are excited to bring the benefits of our latest technology and fifth-generation ZX5 electric transit bus to Northern Virginia.”

DASH remains committed to helping to build a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Alexandria. Additionally, DASH is committed to supporting the City’s Eco-City Alexandria initiatives including the Environmental Action Plan 2040 which focuses on climate change mitigation and adaptation through a number of policies including the addition of electric vehicles.