Beyond the Bus

Imagine a future where your bus ride is as clean as the air you breathe — no fumes, no emissions, just smooth, quiet rides. CATA is accelerating its drive toward sustainable public transit and making significant progress toward an all-electric future. While existing hybrid-electric buses are a step in the right direction, electrifying the fleet will further reduce carbon emissions and help achieve CATA’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2035. 

With support from federal grants, CATA has ordered two all-electric, 40-foot buses, which will be the first full-size buses powered entirely by electricity to roll out on area roads. The first one is slated to enter service this year, with the second joining in 2026. Both buses are purchased from U.S. manufacturers and will complement the eight other electric vehicles — four Chevy Bolts and four Chevy Equinoxes — already in the fleet.

Getting these state-of-the-art buses on the streets is more than just a new ride. It also involves building out charging infrastructure and training mechanics for maintenance. Bill Frarey, CATA’s maintenance superintendent, emphasizes the importance of transitioning to electric: “We don’t have an infinite supply of fossil fuels. We need to start looking for alternative energy in every area of our lives, not just in transportation.”

With the commitment to sustainable transit solutions, CATA is not just driving buses — it’s driving the change needed for a cleaner, greener future.

Related Stories:

• Progressing toward fleet electrification
• U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin awards CATA $1M for zero-emission bus
• Electrifying CATA’s Fleet

This content has been published in the 2025 Community Report.