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CATA hybrid buses celebrate 10 years

Posted at 9:49 PM, Jan 23, 2017
and last updated 2017-01-24 09:15:20-05

CATA celebrated the tenth anniversary of its switch to hybrid buses by adding the 60th to its fleet on Monday.

CATA stopped buying traditional diesel buses in 2006 and has driven more than ten million miles on hybrids.

The newest bus brings the fleet total to 67% hybrid. They're significantly more expensive than diesel buses,but Steve Lewis says they save money in the long run.

"It costs about $200,000 more for the hybrid but that's because of the electrics and the transmission drive, the batteries and the extra components to make it work. So it takes a few years and, again, the more the fuel costs the faster you recoup your money."

Cata's hybrid buses cut emissions by 90-percent compared to diesel buses.

They also have a quieter and smoother ride because there's no mechanical shifting while they accelerate.