Authored by Alyssa Fritts, ZEBRA Manager & CTE Managing Consultant
On May 15–16, Mountain Line in Missoula, MT welcomed 21 transit agencies from across the country to its hometown for the Innovations in Zero Emission Transit roundtable—an intimate, highly interactive event organized and executed by the Zero Emission Bus Resource Alliance (ZEBRA).
Over the course of two days, more than 30 attendees dove into real-world solutions for the transition to zero emissions. These roundtables are known for their unique format: brief and informative presentations tailored specifically to ZEB applications, moderated conversations led by CTE subject matter experts, and peer-driven learning in a vendor-free audience setting. As ZEBRA’s technical assistance provider, CTE brings decades of industry experience to the table—helping members navigate planning, deployment, and policy challenges across the zero-emission landscape.
• Day one focused on emerging companies using real-world data to tackle core ZEB challenges—fleet optimization, charging, yard management, and operational efficiency. Presenters shared case studies demonstrating how their software solutions and system integration can improve fleet performance and scalability.
• The second day turned toward bus OEMs and the expanding market. Attendees explored the newest zero-emission transportation solutions in the U.S. bus OEM market, including new products and suppliers to tackle operational challenges.
A Small Footprint, A Big Impact
A highlight of the event was the site tour of Mountain Line’s Operations and Administration Base (MOAB) and downtown transfer center. Mountain Line is on track to reach 90% battery-electric fleet conversion by the end of 2025. Set against Montana’s rugged mountain backdrop, the agency continues to lead by example—demonstrating that cold winters don’t have to stand in the way of electrification.
Peer Leadership in Action
A new feature of this roundtable was a panel featuring ZEBRA’s Executive Council—transit leaders from TriMet, King County Metro, Foothill Transit, Regional Transit Service, Victor Valley Transit Authority, and host agency Mountain Line. These agencies, each at different stages of ZEB transition, shared candid insights on innovative approaches in a fast-changing industry.
Collaboration Drives Progress
As always, the most powerful takeaway from the roundtable was the peer-to-peer exchange. ZEBRA members are often on the front lines of adopting new technology—and their willingness to share experiences, challenges, and results helps move the entire industry forward.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
A heartfelt thank you to our event sponsors and speakers: BetterFleet, ZeroMission, CarMedialab, EO Charging, Arcadis, Gillig, ENC, Solaris, Complete Coach Works, and Spheros. And a special thank you to Mountain Line for hosting an inspiring and productive event in one of the most scenic settings to date.
Next Up: Everett, WA
Didn’t make it to Missoula? Join us September 29–30 in Everett, Washington, for the next ZEBRA roundtable. Registration opens in June—visit www.zebragrp.org to learn more.
