IndyGo Making Progress on Transit Upgrades

Originally posted to indymidtownmagazine.com on October 24, 2018 by Thomas P. Healy.

As construction work continues on the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit corridor, IndyGo has taken delivery of the first of thirteen battery electric buses slated to go into service in 2019.

The K11 is a 60-foot battery articulated electric bus that holds up to 46 seated and 57 standing passengers and meets IndyGo’s requirements that it have a range of 275 miles on a single charge. Assembled in Lancaster, CA by BYD Coach & Bus LLC, the American affiliate of China-based BYD Company Ltd., 70 percent of its components are manufactured in America, according to Michael Austin, vice president of U.S. operations for bus manufacturer and complies with “Buy America” requirements stipulated by the use of Federal funds.

“This vehicle is fully Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards approved, which means it is fully approved by the United States Department of Transportation to drive on roads,” he said. Results from the “Altoona” stress test are due early in 2019.

Bryan Luellen, vice-president of public affairs and communications said the coach is currently being used for training of IndyGo trainers who will, in turn, train their colleagues. “All drivers will receive training on the battery electric bus,” he said. Driver education is important since operations differ from a diesel bus and operators will have to adjust the way that accelerate and brake to maintain passenger comfort and optimum battery performance.

For the full article, visit indymidtownmagazine.com/indygo-making-progress-on-transit-upgrades.