RTA rolls out the first of four prototype dual mode electric trolley vehicles on Route 8 on Monday, January 5, at Wright Stop Plaza in Downtown Dayton. Dubbed NexGen for Next Generation, RTA is striving to innovate public transit at home and the industry with the launch of the much anticipated vehicles that can operate on or off RTA’s overhead electric system with the press of a button.
Built in California, with three vehicles delivered to Dayton and the last one expected by mid-January, RTA is working to provide both passengers and operators with safe, quiet and dependable ride. RTA plans to test the prototypes initially on routes 4, 7 and 8 and eventually expanding to many other routes to analyze the off-wire capacity of the units. Throughout the test period data will be gathered and compared to RTA’s existing trolleybus and well as diesel and hybrid fleets.
In preparation for the launch, RTA has pushed NexGen through strenuous performance evaluations and road tested the vehicles for over 6 weeks while providing additional training to selected operators. With more than 24 years’ experience, operating RTA diesel buses and electric trolley vehicles, Tod Johnson, will greet customers for the first ride on Monday afternoon. Also onboard will be RTA Operator Natisha Hogan to answer any questions.
NexGen stands ready to transform public transit in the Miami Valley region.
