Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority

New York State's Second Largest Transit System Reports on Its Electrification Journey

With nearly 300 transit buses and very cold climates to manage, Western New York’s NFTA offers an encouraging look at its zero-emission progress.

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) is a large, multi-modal transit operator committed to providing safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation throughout the Buffalo-Niagara region. NFTA operates a diverse fleet of 275 transit buses that are diesel, diesel hybrid, compressed natural gas (CNG), and battery electric. Increasing its fleet of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) is a collaborative, multi-step process that will help bring cleaner air to the region.

Recently, NFTA shared a behind-the-scenes look at how it’s going. They discussed who they work with, and shed some light on specifics, including charging, user experience, and more.

The Team

NFTA works closely with NYSERDA, which provides funding and administers the NYTVIP. NFTA has worked occasionally with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and has collaborated with New York Power Authority (NYPA) on the charging infrastructure. For training, NFTA works with New Flyer, its original equipment manufacturer (OEM). New Flyer also sends trainers directly to the facility to work with NFTA mechanics on electronics and maintenance.

NFTA reports that collaborating with the dealer, manufacturer, and various State authorities has been smooth and successful.

How’s the Charge?

The Buffalo region is known for its cold winters. But, according to Michael Haniszewski, NFTA’s equipment engineer, the electric buses have plenty of charge to complete 80–90-mile bus routes.

The charging schedule (mostly done overnight) ensures that buses are fully charged in the morning and get the mileage range they need to meet their duty cycle. Occasionally, a bus needs to “top off” during the day. (“Topping off” is a term for giving an energy boost to an electric battery during vehicle downtime. Topping off prevents a battery from draining completely.)

While the electric buses have been performing well in cold temperatures, NFTA would like some extra insurance, too, for sure-to-come weather extremes. They are considering upgrading to bigger battery packs (from 550 to 700 kWh) and looking into "opportunity charging stations" along some routes.

NFTA reports a 90% charge success rate. Most charging issues (so far) have been related to learning new technologies, and those have been quickly resolved with the help of the OEM.

A Futuristic Charging Depot

The video above shows how automated charging is orchestrated. A driver pulls into a charging space and a sleek overhead pairing system glides into action. This system was completed with guidance from NYPA.

Point of View: Mechanics, Drivers, Riders

• Mechanics report it’s a cleaner vehicle to work on, without fluids or greases, and they are responding well to new EV training.
• Drivers love them for the smooth, quiet ride.
• The public has commented on the ride quality and quiet experience. Compared to combustion vehicles, there’s no vibration, shifting, or tail pipe exhaust.

Looking Ahead

NFTA is currently focused on transit buses but sees additional need to electrify other service vehicles in the future. They’re also considering hydrogen fuel cell technology.