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Board backs zero‑emission school bus resolution, asks questions about costs and infrastructure
Summary
Lodi Unified approved a resolution to pursue a zero‑emission school bus and infrastructure grant after staff and the transportation director fielded questions about per‑bus cost, battery warranties, range limits and charging infrastructure. Vote was unanimous.
The Lodi Unified School District board voted unanimously to authorize participation in a zero‑emission school bus and supporting infrastructure grant after staff outlined grant details and transportation staff answered board questions about cost, maintenance and infrastructure.
Staff identified the opportunity as ‘stackable’ with other grants and said the district is pursuing additional funding to reduce local cost exposure. Board members pressed staff on per‑bus acquisition costs (acknowledged as typically 'over $500,000' per bus), battery replacement and warranty coverage, and operational concerns such as range and charging on longer routes.
The transportation director said some battery warranties last two to four years for components while the overall vehicle life is comparable to diesel (estimated 10–15 years). The director noted that battery packs constitute one of the most expensive components and cited an example battery cost figure discussed in the meeting (the presenter referenced up to $10,000 for some battery components in the record). Staff emphasized coordination with the local utility (PG&E) for infrastructure approvals and that fast‑charging stations were included in grant planning. They also said training from manufacturers would be used to make mechanics and drivers proficient in electric vehicle systems.
Board members raised operational scenarios (field trips, long routes, mountainous terrain) and staff replied that electric buses are better suited to shorter routes (under about 100 miles) and that the district is exploring shared charging solutions and inter‑district arrangements to mitigate limitations. After the Q&A, the board adopted Resolution 2025010 authorizing grant participation and related steps to apply for infrastructure funding.
The district recorded a unanimous vote in favor. Next steps include finalizing grant applications and coordinating infrastructure approvals with energy providers and vendors.
