FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE‍

August 6, 2026

CONTACT
Kate Mason
kate@cte.tv
(615) 419-5185

MONTEBELLO, CA — 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.

“Montebello Bus Lines has long been committed to providing safe, reliable, and innovative transportation services for our community,” said City Manager Raul Alvarez. “The introduction of our first hydrogen fuel cell electric buses represents a significant investment in the future of public transit and environmental sustainability. This transition will help improve air quality, reduce emissions, and ensure that our riders continue to receive dependable service for years to come.”

MBL operates eight fixed-route lines, along with commuter and paratransit services, providing nearly 3 million rides annually across Montebello and 14 surrounding cities. The agency’s new hydrogen buses will operate across the entire service network and run complete shifts without needing to refuel, keeping service consistent and reliable for riders throughout the day.

“As a city, we are proud to lead by example in advancing clean transportation solutions that benefit both current and future generations.,” said Mayor Georgina Tamayo. “These hydrogen-powered buses reflect Montebello’s commitment to sustainability, public health, and regional mobility. We are excited to bring this cutting-edge technology to our residents and visitors while helping build a cleaner, greener future for our community.”

Hydrogen FCEBs offer several key benefits, including fast fueling times , allowing for uninterrupted service; longer range capabilities well-suited to MBL’s full-day operations; and quiet, smooth rides with zero tailpipe emissions. These vehicles help reduce air pollution, supporting public health and climate resilience in local neighborhoods. Each FCEB avoids approximately 52 tons of CO₂ emissions each year—roughly equal to the carbon sequestered annually by 48 acres of U.S. forest.

As part of the rollout, MBL is preparing both temporary and permanent fueling stations and upgrading its maintenance facilities to support safe and efficient hydrogen operations. MBL is also proactively engaging community stakeholders, especially those near the fueling site, to share information and ensure transparency.

MBL’s transition to hydrogen is supported in part by funding from FTA’s Urbanized Area Formula Program, which provides federal resources for transit capital, operating assistance, and transportation planning in urbanized areas. Montebello is one of the first small-to-midsize transit agencies in the country to deploy hydrogen FCEBs and supporting fueling infrastructure at this scale, demonstrating that leadership in clean mobility is not limited to large cities.

Technical support and project management are being provided by the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE), a national non-profit engineering and planning firm with more than 30 years of experience advancing sustainable transportation solutions. CTE is supporting the agency by providing vehicle and infrastructure procurement and deployment planning support along with overall program management services to help ensure a smooth transition to hydrogen operations.

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About the Center for Transportation and the Environment

The Center for Transportation and the Environment is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to improve the health of our climate and communities by bringing people together to develop and commercialize clean, efficient, and sustainable transportation technologies. CTE collaborates with federal, state, and local governments, fleets, and vehicle technology manufacturers to complete our mission. If interested in learning more about CTE, please visit cte.tv.

About the City of Montebello

The City of Montebello was founded in 1920 and is located eight miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. Its history dates back to the days of the Franciscan missionaries and today boasts a full array of services, including police, fire, and one of the region’s largest public transportation systems, Montebello Bus Lines. The City’s multi-cultural resident population is approximately 65,000, covering a footprint of approximately four-square miles. For more information, visit www.montebelloca.gov or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.