Amtrak Introduces First Electric Bus on Cascades Route, Advancing Sustainable Transit

Amtrak, in partnership with the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT), has taken a significant stride in eco-friendly transit by replacing a diesel-powered bus on the Pacific Northwest’s Cascades route with its inaugural electric bus. The new electric bus is set to operate between Seattle and Bellingham, bridging the gap between morning and evening train services on the Cascades route. This initiative aligns with Amtrak’s broader strategy of employing buses nationwide for scheduled connecting services that integrate seamlessly with its train network.

The pioneering electric bus, a 45-foot Van Hool CX45e, showcases a 660 kWh Proterra lithium-ion battery system and boasts an impressive range of 260 miles. Owned by coach operator MTRWestern, the bus is capable of completing the nearly 200-mile round trip on a single charge. The charging infrastructure, equipped with ABB EV chargers, is located at MTRWestern’s Seattle facilities, previously used for storing large petroleum tanks.

Amtrak estimates that the deployment of this electric bus on the Cascades route will yield substantial environmental benefits. With an anticipated annual saving of approximately 10,000 gallons of diesel fuel, the initiative will contribute to a reduction of 109 tons of CO2 emissions each year. This endeavor is in line with Amtrak’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2045.

Recognizing the success of this venture, Amtrak is actively exploring the viability of integrating electric vehicles (EVs) and alternative fuels across other routes within its National Network.

President of MTRWestern, Jeremy Butzlaff, emphasized the company’s dedication to a future dominated by electric vehicles, stating, “The future is electric, and we are committed to delivering carbon-free intercity and group transportation throughout the Pacific Northwest. We consider the collaboration on this route a transformational step towards even greater EV regional transit.” This collaboration underscores the significant progress towards sustainable transportation in the region.