Today, CTE celebrates 30 years of working on the cutting edge of vehicle technology to advance clean transportation solutions.Founded in 1993 as the Southern Coalition for Advanced Transportation, the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) was one of the original regional consortia organizations formed under the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Program. In the 1990s, CTE contributed to the development and commercialization of both hybrid and CNG technologies. However, for the past 15 years, our focus has been squarely on advancing zero-emission transportation technologies for the good of our climate and communities. With a project portfolio totaling more than $1 billion over our 30-year history, CTE has provided technical and management support to over 100 medium and heavy-duty fleets that have deployed, or will soon deploy, more than 700 zero-emission vehicles.

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Clockwise from top left: CTE staff and board members in front of Chattanooga's
first electric bus (1996), CTE staff (2013), CTE staff (2022)

CTE has been a critical player in forming essential partnerships between fleet operators and some of the most innovative companies in the US zero-emission transportation industry. With more than 100 member organizations representing the entire spectrum of zero-emission solutions, CTE has its fingers on the pulse of the medium- and heavy-duty battery electric and fuel cell electric markets. We have consistently served the zero-emission transportation industry as an independent, unbiased broker, addressing the challenges and barriers facing the industry and advocating for solutions. Our team of engineers and planners have always placed technical expertise at the forefront, ensuring that our policy recommendations are informed by hands-on experience in the field.

As we reflect on our 30-year history, we are proud of our many accomplishments and grateful for the support of our staff, board, members, and partner fleets. We look forward to continuing to advance a complete transition to zero-emission vehicles in the U.S. and beyond.