GM to invest in innovative green transit buses14 June 2011

General Motors Ventures is to invest $6 million in Proterra, the zero-emission commercial transit bus manufacturer.

The automotive giant says its move is part of its mission to buy into next-generation technologies in transport, and adds that its cash is part of the investment group's total cash of $30 million for the bus manufacturer.

Proterra's EcoRide BE-35 battery electric bus is averaging up to 24mpg (diesel equivalent) in service, a more than 600% improvement over a conventional diesel bus. Also, using technology developed by Proterra, the lightweight, composite-body bus recharges in about 10 minutes.

"This equity investment further demonstrates GM's commitment to electric propulsion and supports our commitment to identify and invest in technology solutions that help advance the global transportation industry," comments Jon Lauckner, president of GM Ventures.

"While this investment will help Proterra commercialise its electric bus and fast-charging technology, it also helps to address the future challenges of urban mobility," he adds.

Three EcoRide BE-35 buses are currently in a test fleet in California, with additional buses to be added, and new buses and charging stations are also headed to San Antonio and Tallahassee, Florida, later this year.

Proterra says the investment allows it to complete federal validation testing of its bus, roll out additional pilot fleets and complete initiatives to significantly reduce costs and increase volume production at its manufacturing plant, which will have the capacity to produce 400 buses annually.

"With the support of GM's automotive expertise and technology leadership, we can achieve a better, cleaner future for public transportation," states Jeff Granato, president of Proterra. "We are proud to have General Motors on board."

Author
John Challen

Related Companies
General Motors Ltd (UK & Ireland)

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