Montebello Bus Lines (MBL) is taking a major step toward a cleaner, more connected future with the introduction of its first hydrogen fuel cell electric buses (FCEBs). These advanced technology vehicles mark the beginning of MBL’s long-term plan to convert its entire 66-bus fleet to zero-emission technologies—delivering cleaner air, quieter streets, and more reliable transit to the communities MBL serves.

Representatives from 45 public transit fleets gather to discuss zero-emission technology, workforce readiness, safety, and fleet operations

Seven innovative zero-emission suppliers and 22 transit agencies from across the country gathered in Urbana, Illinois June 3 and 4 to discuss one of the biggest topics in the transit industry today: Hydrogen for the Long Haul. Organized by the Zero Emission Bus Resource Alliance (ZEBRA) in collaboration with the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus Council (HFCBC) and Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (CUMTD), this intimate event was the setting for innovative, collaborative conversations over two days of information sharing. Attendees learned and shared insights about overcoming challenges and scaling opportunities for fuel cell electric buses (FCEBs).

CTE is celebrating the successful adoption of Amendment #67 to the BUILD 250 Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill, a bipartisan, five-year transportation package that invests in America’s roads, bridges, transit, rail transportation, and highway and motor carrier safety programs.

Transit agencies across California are planning for and implementing zero-emission bus (ZEB) deployments in response to regulatory requirements, climate goals, and changing operational needs. While ZEB technologies offer significant environmental and public health benefits, they also come with new planning, procurement, infrastructure, and operational considerations that differ from conventional bus deployments. A successful transition and deployment begin with an understanding of ZEB technology and its impact on operations, as well as early coordination across agency stakeholders.

The Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) is celebrating the successful adoption of Amendment #099 to HR 8748, the Surface Transportation Research and Development Act of 2026. This amendment, authorizing the Transit Vehicle Innovation and Deployment Centers (TVIDC) Program, will have tangible, positive impacts on transit agencies across the country. CTE thanks Representative Suzanne Bonamici of Oregon for her introduction of the measure, and Science and Technology Committee Chair Babin and Ranking Member Lofgren for their support of the amendment’s passage. CTE looks forward to continued partnership with congressional leaders as the bill advances to the House floor.

As transit agencies across the country work to modernize fleets and reduce emissions, Valley Regional Transit (VRT) is continuing to build momentum in Boise, Idaho. Through a successful award under the Federal Transit Administration’s 2022 Low or No Emission Vehicle Program (Low-No), VRT partnered with the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE), Jacobs, and Heliox to deploy seven new 35-foot GILLIG battery electric buses (BEBs) and the charging infrastructure necessary to support them.

This white paper outlines the unique fire risks associated with battery electric buses (BEBs) and the strategies needed to manage them effectively. While BEBs offer major benefits—like improved air quality, quieter operation, and lower maintenance—they introduce different safety challenges than traditional diesel or natural gas buses, primarily due to lithium-ion batteries and high-voltage systems.

While America’s coasts frequently command the narrative around zero-emission vehicles, the Greater Lafayette Public Transportation Corporation (CityBus), a transit agency in Lafayette, Indiana, is quietly advancing the first hydrogen bus deployment in Indiana.

On November 20, 2025, the Federal Transit Administration announced over $2 billion in funding for the Low or No Emission Vehicle (Low-No) and the Bus and Bus Facilities discretionary funding programs. This funding will support over 160 transit projects across 45 states and Washington, D.C. CTE is proud to share that six partner agencies that CTE supported on their Low-No applications received funding—a nearly 50% success rate for CTE-supported applications overall. We are thrilled to be able to continue supporting transit agencies in accessing grant funds from federal and state programs.