Featured News

CTE has launched a new project under the FTA-sponsored Transit Vehicle Innovation Deployment Centers (TVIDC) program to analyze maintenance costs for zero-emission buses (ZEBs) in public transit. This initiative will provide transit agencies with critical insights into the maintenance expenses of battery electric buses (BEBs), fuel cell electric buses (FCEBs), and traditional diesel, hybrid, and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses.

CTE is pleased to announce the release of the Zero-Emission Bus Transition Planning Guidebook authored by CTE Senior Managing Consultant, Niki Rinaldi El-Abd, with funding provided by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the National Transit Institute (NTI). This first-of-its-kind transition planning guidebook is designed to equip public transit agencies with the knowledge and tools necessary to plan and implement a successful transition to a zero-emission bus fleet.

The IIJA has transformed the zero-emission transportation landscape, laying a strong foundation for industry growth, U.S. job creation, and technological advancement. As we look to the surface transportation reauthorization in 2026, CTE encourages Congress to continue to support efforts that bolster American innovation, strengthen energy independence, create U.S. jobs, expand zero-emission transportation options, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

CTE has launched a battery-free Fuel Cell Dominant Proof of Concept project under the FTA-sponsored Transit Vehicle Innovation Deployment Centers (TVIDC) program. This groundbreaking initiative, featuring fuel cell technology patented by Nimbus Power Systems, aims to transform zero-emission public transit by introducing a more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system to the transit bus market.

CTE joins the Port of Oakland in celebrating a $322 million grant from the EPA’s Clean Ports Program to drive a large-scale transition to zero-emissions port operations. This initiative, the largest federal grant for Bay Area emission reduction, is part of the transformative “Community Led, Business Supported, Proven and Ready to Go!” project, designed to eliminate virtually all diesel-powered equipment at the Port of Oakland, replacing it with advanced zero-emission technology.

On October 21 & 22, the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) hosted our Annual Meeting in Atlanta, GA. The event brought together Members, the Board of Directors, Policy Board, and Staff for strategic networking and exclusive updates on CTE's latest initiatives and future direction.

The Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) is excited to announce its official partnership with the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus Council, taking on a key role in providing administrative support to this influential organization within the public transit industry. This partnership reinforces CTE’s commitment to advancing clean transportation solutions by helping the Council expand its reach and impact.

In a rapidly evolving industry, agencies are increasingly focusing on fleet diversification to boost flexibility and resilience, all while addressing their unique operational needs. The event featured six industry innovators who shared valuable presentations on their latest offerings, demonstrating how these solutions can aid in planning and managing mixed fleets.

CTE was awarded $2.5 million to develop and demonstrate two zero-emission fuel cell electric top loaders (FCETLs) and introduce zero-emission hydrogen wet-hose mobile refueling services (WHMR) at the Port of Oakland. This project builds on the success of a 2022 initiative led by CTE at the Port of Los Angeles, which first demonstrated the viability of FCETLs.

The 12th annual Zero-Emission Bus Conference (ZEB Con), hosted by CTE, took place in Philadelphia from August 27-29, 2024, bringing together industry leaders to advance the electrification of public and private transportation fleets.