In a historic event attended by state of California Gov. Jerry Brown, BYD unveiled the first California-made, all-electric, long-range, 40-foot rapid transit bus.
The ceremony was held in Lancaster, Calif., at BYD’s first ever electric bus factory in the United States, which has created more than 60 new jobs for American workers.
“The city of Lancaster strongly believes in the importance of building solid private-public partnerships, such as our ongoing relationship with BYD. Together, we were recognized internationally for our innovative solar programs at the 2012 World Energy Globe Awards," said city of Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris. “BYD continues to bring much-needed manufacturing jobs to our community, having already brought more than 60 new jobs to our region. We look forward to their continued growth, and the resulting economic prosperity they bring to the Antelope Valley and the State of California.”
BYD expects to increase the number of new jobs created to 100 by the end of the year, while adding 200 more by the end of next year. The company hopes this will be the first of many cities where BYD will provide clean energy electric buses, while creating more jobs for Americans.
“This event is truly historic with the unveiling of the first California-made, all-electric, long-range, 40-foot rapid transit buses lasting up to 24 hours on a single charge,” said CEO of BYD Motors, Stella Li. “BYD has a long and solid commitment to provide zero-emission, superior technology transportation vehicles in the United States. We are starting out here in Lancaster, California with the goal of providing clean energy electric buses, throughout the United States creating even more jobs for Americans. BYD is proud to deliver this breakthrough environmentally friendly technology to California.”
Brown stated, “This is a small beginning – a few buses – but it holds the promise of something very big and very important.”
