The SunLine Transit Agency in Thousand Palms, CA, unveiled the “American Fuel Cell Bus,” a seventh-generation hydrogen-fueled vehicle that the agency notes is the first such vehicle to meet Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Buy America requirements, at ceremonies Nov. 14 at its headquarters.

FTA Deputy Administrator Therese McMillan, keynote speaker at the event, said of the vehicle: “We now have a prototype that can continue to advance in the areas of global warming and energy independence. We’re very excited to see that happen.”

The 40-foot fuel cell bus—with an exterior design of flowing stars and stripes, representing its U.S. birthplace, and the bald eagle, symbolizing strength and freedom—will operate on various SunLine routes, serving passengers throughout the Coachella Valley.

“SunLine’s leadership in hydrogen technology continues today with the unveiling of the American Fuel Cell Bus, marking a significant milestone for the agency and for the entire nation,” said SunLine General Manager C. Mikel Oglesby. “Commercialization of these advanced technologies is part of the agency’s ongoing strategy to lead this industry and serve our communities in the Coachella Valley and beyond.”

While Buy America certification only requires 60 percent domestic content, the new vehicle features more than 90 percent American-made components.

Private and public funds for the development of the American Fuel Cell Bus came from BAE Systems, FTA, the California Air Resources Board, the South Coast Air Quality Management District, and El Dorado National as well as the transit agency. CALSTART is serving as contract administrator for the federal funds used in the project.

SunLine has invested in seven generations of hydrogen fueled vehicles in addition to other infrastructure efforts that include onsite hydrogen production and fueling capabilities. Further, the California Division of Measurement Standards is conducting a Type Evaluation Program of SunLine’s hydrogen dispensing system that may establish the agency as a commercial public fueling site for hydrogen.

Posing in front of SunLine Transit Agency’s American Fuel Cell Bus are, from left, SunLine board members Glenn Miller, Yvonne Parks, and Chairman Eduardo Garcia; FTA Deputy Administrator Therese McMillan; SunLine General Manager C. Mikel Oglesby; and board members John J. Benoit and Bill Powers.

 

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