Princeton University's first all-electric bus made its inaugural debut in late October, one of  17 slated to arrive through February as the University transitions to a fully electric bus fleet. 

The remainder of the fleet will be delivered and introduced into service between December and April, with the last remaining diesel vehicles scheduled to be removed before the start of the next academic year. The electric fleet is part of a campus plan for the university to reach net-zero emissions by 2046, its 300th anniversary. 

The Xcelsior battery electric buses are manufactured by New Flyer. They can seat 26 passengers and include 14 USB chargers for riders’ devices. They also are fully accessible with state-of-the-art features for riders who use wheelchairs or need similar accommodations, and feature audio-announced stop information.

“Taking steps now to demonstrate scalable fossil-free systems is the journey we’re on as a society, and it’s exciting to see Princeton squarely in that space,” said Shana Weber, director of the Office of Sustainability. “While the entire life cycle of products, including buses, is not yet fossil-free, transitioning to electric vehicles while regional electric grids decarbonize is part of that journey and builds momentum, supports better local air quality, new industries, helps to educate and informs policy.”