This grant will purchase 4 electric buses total - 2 articulated and 2 battery electric buses along with the associated charging equipment/infrastructure

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded the City of Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) $8.16 million under the Buses and Bus Facilities Formula, Competitive, and Low or No Emissions Programs (CFDA 20.526) on August 22, 2025, for the procurement of electric transit vehicles and supporting infrastructure. The project will deliver four electric buses—two articulated and two battery electric buses—along with associated charging equipment and infrastructure for operation within DDOT's service area. This procurement serves dual purposes: meeting immediate service demand for additional vehicle capacity and establishing a pilot program to expand DDOT's operational knowledge and technical capabilities related to battery-powered fleet technology.

The anticipated outcomes include improved transit service capacity and enhanced customer satisfaction for DDOT riders, alongside environmental benefits through reduced energy consumption as electric buses replace conventional diesel-powered vehicles. The project is expected to be completed by July 31, 2029, providing Detroit residents and transit riders with modernized, environmentally sustainable public transportation options while positioning DDOT to evaluate and potentially expand electric vehicle integration across its broader fleet operations.

Activities

Ddot will purchase 4 electric buses and associated charging infrastructure for operation in ddot service area.

Expected outcomes

Purchasing 4 new electric buses will provide for additional needed vehicles to meet capacity while improving customer satisfaction for transit riders. Additionally by further introducing electric buses into the fleet ddot will improve the overall energy consumption by reducing the amount of energy required to operate buses.

Intended beneficiaries

Ddot riders and citizens residing in and traveling about the service area.