Zeroing in on Zero-Emission Buses

Updated annually, Zeroing in on Zero-Emission Buses (ZEBs) provides the number of funded, ordered, delivered, and/or deployed transit ZEBs within the United States. These vehicles offer lifecycle cost savings for transit agencies while providing cleaner air for the communities they serve—and this series is the definitive resource for those seeking up-to-date counts of both full-size and small transit ZEBs adopted across the country.   

Latest Report

U.S. transit agencies continued to deploy transit ZEBs during 2024, with notable growth from both battery–electric and hydrogen-powered technologies. Despite industry headwinds, such as lingering supply chain issues and a smaller transit vehicle manufacturer pool, 2024 saw a consistent rate of growth compared to 2023.   

Insights

As of July 2024, full-size transit ZEB adoptions in the country have grown to 7,028—an increase of 14% from 2023. If this pace of adoption continues, the United States will surpass 15,000 full-size transit ZEBs by the year 2030. Other notable takeaways from the latest edition include:  

• California remains the top state with full-size ZEBs at 2,285, followed by New York (779), Florida (516), Washington (356), and Massachusetts (292).  
• Adoption of fuel cell electric buses increased overall by 55% compared to 2023.  
• The number of small ZEBs added to public transit fleets grew by 25% compared to 2023. Small ZEBs in private fleets also increased by 13%, and small ZEBs in university fleets increased by 121%.   
• Nearly 600 ZEBs were funded, representing 48% of all buses awarded, by the Federal Transit Administration’s Low and No Emission (Low No) Program and the Grants for Bus and Bus Facilities Program. Awards went to transit agencies in 47 states and territories. 

Past Editions

Access the full library of Zeroing in on ZEBs reports.