Shuttle Buses

Like transit buses, shuttle buses reduce the number of cars on the road. Shuttle buses are typically "return-to-base" fleets—they start from a central location and return to that same location at the end of the shift—and are therefore capable of centralized fueling. This makes them well suited to alternative fuel operation, as does their high-mileage operation. Many shuttle fleets have realized the benefits of alternative fuels and hybrid electric technologies and have begun to convert their fleets.

Shuttle Bus Benefits

Alternative fuel and advanced technology shuttle buses provide important benefits, including the following:

*They reduce emissions. Because shuttle buses typically accumulate many miles each day, alternative fuel and advanced technology models provide more emission reduction benefits than most other vehicles.

*They can be eligible for significant funding from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and excise tax credits. For more on these incentives, see Federal and State Incentives and Laws. Also learn about other funding opportunities.

*They help shuttle bus fleets reduce operational and maintenance costs while displacing petroleum use.

*They can enhance public relations when they are cleaner, quieter, and less expensive to operate than conventional buses.

For help reaping the benefits of alternative fuel and advanced technology shuttle buses, see Shuttle Bus Implementation Considerations.