California, Long Beach Transit orders 30 electric buses from New Flyer

Long Beach Transit (LBT) has signed a contract for 30 battery-electric Xcelsior CHARGE NG 40-foot buses (12-meter long).

New Flyer announced in late 2024 it will be relying on MAN-made bus axles for another five years (until the end of 2029). Two major contracts were awarded in 2024 in Boston and New York for up to 460 and over 200 e-buses respectively.

MAN electric buses for Long Beach Transit

New Flyer’s Xcelsior CHARGE NG bus “incorporates three distinct technology advancements: high-energy batteries, advanced protective battery packaging for simplified installation and serviceability, and a lightweight electric traction drive system with up to 90% energy recovery”, New Flyer states.

LBT is a provider of public transportation across southeastern Los Angeles County and northwestern Orange County, a service area of over 100 square miles that includes 14 cities. LBT’s fixed-route bus services complete more than 6.9 million annual service miles each year, providing over 17 million annual passenger trips. In 2022, LBT celebrated its transition to an entirely diesel-alternative fuel fleet.

“New Flyer has partnered with Long Beach Transit for nearly 30 years, delivering over 300 buses, and we are thrilled to continue this meaningful collaboration.” said Chris Stoddart, President, North American Bus and Coach, NFI. “This latest order showcases LBT’s commitment to innovative vehicles that leverage cutting-edge technologies for superior performance, furthering their transition to greener alternatives.”