Nonprofit organizations interested in creating and leading research, demonstration, testing, and evaluation projects of zero emission and related technology for public transportation may apply for FTA funding through February 21, 2017 as part of the agency’s new Zero Emission Research Opportunity (ZERO). Since 2008, FTA has provided more than $150 million to support the research, development and deployment of cleaner, more efficient transit vehicles, including battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell buses. The purpose of ZERO is to support the industry as it examines the potential of larger fleets and improved vehicles.
In implementing ZERO, FTA will use a cooperative research model similar to FTA’s successful National Fuel Cell Bus Program. Research and demonstration projects are defined and conducted by selected nonprofit consortia that, under FTA direction, manage teams comprised of transit agencies, vendors, suppliers, and others. Through ZERO, FTA seeks to create a research environment that results in greater industry involvement and more innovative and successful projects. FTA intends to enter into cooperative agreements with up to three nonprofit consortia. Eligibility for future ZERO funding opportunities in fiscal years 2017-2020 will be limited to nonprofit consortia selected under the initial fiscal year 2017 notice.
