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Durham, N.C. — The City of Durham will unveil the first of 20 new hybrid diesel-electric buses next week on various Durham Area Transit Authority (DATA) routes. 

“This bus represents one of many sustainable initiatives being implemented by the City of Durham,” said Deputy City Manager Theodore Voorhees. “Thanks to a partnership with the Federal Transit Administration and the North Carolina Department of Transportation, this bus serves as a representation of the City’s long-term commitment to promoting environmental responsibility in our operations.  DATA has also recently begun installing solar-powered lights in bus shelters and will continue to explore new opportunities for environmental leadership.”

In tests comparing hybrid-electric buses to conventional diesel models, hybrid buses typically use 20 to 45 percent less fuel and are up to 50 percent quieter.  Hybrid buses do not require special fueling or other infrastructure changes. 

The new hybrid bus features many accessible features such as wheelchair securement, an entrance ramp and kneeling feature.  It also includes a video surveillance system, talking bus features for the visually impaired and bike racks. 

The total cost for the 20 hybrid buses is $10.7 million.  The FTA contributed $8.5 million and the NCDOT contributed $1.1 million with the City paying the remaining $1.1 million.

The remaining 40-foot hybrids will enter service in February 2010 with a new look that was decided by staff recommendations and an online public survey conducted during the fall of 2008.

DATA is also anticipating the arrival of 24 new vans for the ACCESS paratransit system this winter. 

About the Durham Area Transit Authority
Durham Area Transit Authority (DATA) provides safe, reliable, convenient and accessible transportation for the residents and visitors of Durham.  DATA contracts the operation of its fixed route and paratransit services.  The fixed route system includes 52 buses serving over 15,000 passenger trips daily on 18 different bus routes.  The paratransit system includes 43 vans transporting qualified passengers throughout the City of Durham.  DATA strives to provide traffic congestion relief, cleaner air, and economic development—all in comfort and safety.  For additional information about DATA, call (919) 485-RIDE or visit the City’s Web site at http://data.durhamnc.gov/.