New hybrid buses debut on WSU campus routes

hybrid bus
 
Photo by Shelly Hanks, WSU Photo Services
 
 
PULLMAN, Wash. – Three hybrid buses will hit the streets as Washington State University students hit the books on Monday, Aug. 19, the first day of classes. Wrapped in the familiar Go Cougs design with a twist of green, the Pullman Transit gas-electric hybrids will be cleaner and quieter – and welcomed by neighbors and bus drivers alike.
 
“These buses are amazing, the easiest I’ve ever driven,” said Rod Thornton, manager of Pullman Transit. “They’re clean, quiet and smooth.”
 
Pullman Transit received a $1,512,000 federal grant in 2011 to help purchase three hybrid buses at $630,000 each. A recent grant of $500,000 will be used to convert an older bus to an electric vehicle.
 
Pullman Transit is the most used alternative transportation option available to WSU students, staff and faculty. Last year, it provided in excess of 1.4 million rides.
 
“The green buses are a great compliment to the fleet that provides the Pullman community with one of the most highly utilized public transportation systems in the nation,” said Taylor Hennessey, Associated Students of WSU president. “Thanks are in order to the city of Pullman for their continued partnership to keep WSU ‘World Class.'”
 
 
 
 
Contacts:
Rod Thornton, Pullman Transit, 509-332-6535
Bridgette Brady, WSU Transportation Services, 509-335-5105, b.brady@wsu.edu