King County Metro Transit (KCM) has completed an accelerated durability and reliability test of the Proterra Catalyst 40’ FC battery-electric bus. Simulating one year of operation with a constant 97 passenger equivalent load, this was the most rigorous test of its nature ever performed in the industry.
The Results:
Operating 24 hours per day over the 106-day period, the Proterra Catalyst vehicle achieved 32,545 total miles—nearly twice the distance of standard industry tests at Altoona. And the bus was hauling 14,500 pounds of water ballast during the entire test period, which represents 125% of a normal full load of 77 passengers with standees.
The vehicle averaged 325 miles each day, with a maximum mileage of 572 miles in one day, and was charged more than 1,750 times during the test period.
From mid-October to the end of January 2016, the bus achieved 98% uptime. It was out of service for only 6 days, including 3 holidays, preventative maintenance checks summing to 1 day, and 2 days of quick maintenance to resolve minor issues. The vehicle experienced some basic wear and tear, but nothing out of the ordinary.
Fuel Economy:
Average fuel economy was 15 MPGe over this testing period, 213% more efficient than current KCM 40' diesel buses. This is projected to improve to 18 MPGe at normal loads.
Maintenance Costs:
Total estimated cost of maintenance for this test, including parts & labor was approximately $0.20/mile.
