The Challenge

It is estimated that there are nearly 500,000 school buses in the United States. These buses travel 4.3 billion miles annually and consume approximately 2.3 billion gallons of diesel fuel, making them a significant source of emissions. In fact, school buses account for nearly 4% of all on-road diesel emissions 

The Solution

Midwest Transit Equipment, the largest bus dealership in the United States, has partnered with Sea Electric, an Australian electric vehicle manufacturer, to provide electric school buses to American school districts. The buses will be manufactured at Midwest Transit’s facility in Kankakee, Illinois and will be powered by Sea Electric’s proprietary battery system. 

The Benefits

  • Reduced emissions – Sea Electric’s battery system emits zero emissions, meaning there will be a significant reduction in emissions from the school buses.
  • Reduced operating costs – Electric buses are cheaper to operate than diesel buses, since they require less maintenance and have lower fuel costs.
  • Improved air quality – By reducing emissions, electric buses will help improve air quality, especially in areas where school buses travel.
  • Quieter operation – Electric buses are much quieter than diesel buses, which will be a benefit for students, parents, and communities.

The Future

Midwest Transit Equipment and Sea Electric are working together to provide American school districts with electric school buses, which will reduce emissions, operating costs, and improve air quality. In the future, the partnership plans to provide electric buses to other markets as well, such as airports, hotels, and other businesses.