Augusta Transit launches first electric transit buses in the CSRA

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)- Augusta Transit will be hosting a ribbon cutting for the official launch into regular service of battery electric buses.

It’s the first transit agency in the CSRA with electric transit buses.

This is all a part of Green Augusta initiative, transitioning twenty percent of its non emergency vehicles to zero emission by 2030.

There will be five battery electric transit buses used in Augusta, providing cleaner air, lower operating cost, better performance and improved riding experiences.

The drivers are specifically trained to drive these buses for more efficient battery use.

Augusta Transit’s deputy director says the buses won’t run out of battery because they are monitored at all times.

“It’s monitored in real time. I’d be up to monitor it. We have dispatch staff who’ve been monitoring it transmits a lot of information. One of the information it transmits is the how it’s using the battery, how the driver, the bus operator was actually operating the bus,” said Dr. Oliver Page.

He also, said only four routes will be initially taken to begin with.

“We have assigned four routes. Route three, the Gold Line, East Augusta. Route five, the Green Line, Washington Road. Route seven, The Pink Line, Augusta Mall. And Route eight, The Orange Line, Barton Chapel.”

These buses will begin its routes starting Monday October 20th.

The ribbon cutting will be held here at Augusta Transit today at noon.