Big Blue Bus (BBB) has announced it will receive $870,000 from the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee’s (MSRC) Near Zero Engine Incentive Program. The funds will be used to upgrade the agency’s compressed natural gas (CNG) engines, which will further reduce emissions and extend the lifespan of its vehicles.
Big Blue Bus will use the grant approved by the MSRC to partially fund the purchase of fifty-eight new Cummins-Westport 8.9L ISL G Near-Zero 0.02 NOx engines; the first mid-range engine in North America to receive emission certifications from both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (ARB), that meet the 0.02 g/bhp-hr optional Near Zero NOx Emissions standards. The new engines will be installed over a period of 3 to 4 years, at a rate of 12 to 18 buses per year.
In June 2015, Big Blue Bus was awarded $5.9 million from the Federal Transit Administration, to purchase nine new CNG buses. The recent procurement of both CNG buses and engines will help the agency reduce its current nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions by over 90% in 2018.
“The funding provided by the FTA will strengthen BBB’s vigorous pursuit of sustainable and environmentally responsible practices, in virtually every facet of our operations,” said Ed King, Director of Transit Services for Big Blue Bus. “It will also enable us to make long-term investments in new technologies that ensure the efficiency of service to our customers and the future scalability of the agency.”
“Big Blue Bus’ steady procurement of low-emitting, alternatively-fueled vehicles is very much indicative of an ongoing, citywide commitment to sustainability, while providing a strong, affordable, reliable regional transit system. Their efforts continue to play a significant role in reducing the City’s carbon footprint, including its greenhouse gas emissions, while mitigating the adverse effects of climate change in our region,” said Santa Monica Mayor Tony Vazquez.
