Get AI Briefings, Transcripts & Alerts on Local & National Government Meetings — Forever.
Simi Valley unveils first zero-emission transit bus; city to add five more
Summary
City staff displayed the first New Flyer 35-foot zero-emission transit bus — the first of six — and told council it meets California's Innovative Clean Transit rule with an estimated range up to 270 miles and seating for 32 passengers.
The Simi Valley City Council received a demonstration of the city's first zero-emission transit bus during Monday’s meeting.
Deputy public works director for transit Ben Gonzalez showed council a 2026 New Flyer 35-foot electric bus, described as a charge model with an estimated range of up to 270 miles and seating for 32 passengers. Gonzalez said the vehicle can be charged using curbside or overhead systems and that one of six buses is already on site; five remaining vehicles are expected to arrive in the next three weeks.
Gonzalez framed the purchase as a step toward complying with California’s Innovative Clean Transit (ICT) regulation requiring transit fleets to transition to zero-emission vehicles. He said the city plans charging at the transit maintenance facility initially and hopes to add overhead charging at the future transit center near the library.
Council members asked about seating capacity and disposition of the buses being replaced; Gonzalez said seat counts are similar to current vehicles and that retired buses will be sold at public auction, with proceeds returned to vehicle replacement funds. Council recessed for a 10-minute public viewing of the bus before returning to the meeting.
No vote was required; staff said six vehicles are expected and charging infrastructure plans will continue as the transit center project advances.
