In a recent government meeting, discussions surrounding the challenges of electric school buses (EV buses) highlighted significant concerns regarding their reliability and performance in various weather conditions. Presenters noted that extreme temperatures adversely affect the operational range of EV buses, with cold weather reducing range by up to 50% due to the need for cabin heating and frequent stops. Conversely, high temperatures can lead to battery degradation and slower charging times, with a reported 31% range loss at 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

The meeting revealed alarming statistics regarding the operational status of EV bus fleets across several cities. For instance, New York's fleet has experienced a 20% failure rate, while Edmonton reported that 45 out of 60 buses are out of service after just seven years. Other cities, including Philadelphia and Austin, echoed similar issues, with many buses being unreliable and difficult to maintain. The head of EV bus infrastructure at Metro Transit in Minnesota noted that, despite four years of use, the cost per mile for electric buses remains higher than that of diesel buses.

Concerns were also raised about the fire hazards associated with EV batteries, as there is currently no effective fire suppression agent for these incidents, posing risks to students and staff. In light of these challenges, some attendees urged the board to require binding performance agreements from vendors like Schneider Electric before investing taxpayer money in EV technology.

Critics of the meeting process pointed out a lack of public transparency, citing the absence of written comments during the audience call and the timing of the meeting as barriers to community engagement. Overall, the discussions underscored the need for careful consideration and oversight before committing to the purchase of electric school buses, as many districts are grappling with the hidden costs and operational difficulties associated with this technology.