So if you’ve ever had to ride the bus around D.C. recently, you may already know how much a new and clean bus can improve the experience! This is because D.C.’s brand new series of “ZEB” buses started their first few routes this past November as part of their initial launch. The “ZEB” stands for Zero Emission Buses, the newest upgrade to the WMATA’s (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s) arsenal of transportation tools.
The new buses, which are 100% electricity reliant, are slated to take over the city’s bus route completely by 2042 at the latest, aiming to create a net-zero emission public use bus route for the city. Aside from being electric, there are plenty of other new things to be excited about, so let’s get into it!
D.C.’s new buses offer a better ride experience!
The new buses are packed with new technology and upgraded interiors! For starters, the new electricity-based buses are ostensibly silent, so compared to the buses of the past you don’t have to worry about the loud headache-inducing engines. Then, aside from a quieter ride, you also get to enjoy the upgraded interior, which will include redeveloped seats that are complete with USB charging ports and upgraded screen displays to announce upcoming stops along the bus’s route.
In addition to the improved seating and quieter ride, the boarding process for the bus has also been streamlined with an electronic “tap to scan” fare box, which will make getting on the bus faster and more convenient. What this means is that the bus spends less time waiting for people to board at each stop, ultimately allowing the bus to operate much faster and consistently than before.
While having nothing to do with the quality of the experience, it’s also worth noting that the new “ZEB” buses have a rather unique new design on them that makes them stand out. Aside from being a massive 60-foot bus, these buses are also going to have a unique green plug icon along with “Zero Emission Electric Bus” written out on the side.