Seattle is setting a remarkable precedent in the United States, embracing the future of public transportation with an innovative leap. The city is gearing up to introduce double-decker electric buses equipped with state-of-the-art inductive wireless charging technology, marking a first in the nation’s journey towards sustainable urban mobility.

A Leap Towards Green Transit

In an ambitious move, Sound Transit, Seattle’s leading public transit authority, has confirmed the purchase of 33 Alexander Dennis Enviro500EV electric double-decker buses, alongside 15 articulated electric buses, all designed to revolutionize the way the city moves. These buses will be powered by cutting-edge 300 kW in-ground inductive chargers from InductEV, a pioneering force in wireless electric vehicle charging based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.

“This initiative not only positions Seattle as a trailblazer in eco-friendly transportation but also underscores our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and fostering a sustainable future,” stated a Sound Transit spokesperson.

Innovative Features and Deployment

The double-decker buses are set to be a game-changer for urban transit, featuring:

  • The Voith Electrical Drive System for unmatched efficiency
  • Increased energy storage capacity to extend range and reduce charging times

Scheduled for delivery in 2026, these buses will be manufactured in the US by Big Rig Manufacturing, a partner of the UK-based Alexander Dennis, ensuring quality and reliability.

Serving the Stride Bus Rapid Transit

These electric marvels will ply the new Stride bus rapid transit system, developing a seamless network along Interstate 405 to connect communities around Lake Washington. With plans to charge the buses en route and at depots, Sound Transit is leveraging the region’s renewable energy prowess, with nearly half of the Puget Sound area’s electricity sourced from green sources.

The Environmental Edge

Sound Transit’s initiative is a significant step towards a greener future, with the following benefits:

  1. Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, thanks to the electric nature of the buses
  2. Decrease in noise pollution, enhancing the urban soundscape
  3. Energy efficiency, with the adoption of wireless charging technology

InductEV’s technology is not just a blueprint but a reality, with about 100 electric buses across Washington State set to benefit, alongside the installation of 35 wireless charging pads.

Extending the Story

For further reading on advancements in electric public transportation and sustainable urban development, explore related news and information:

  • Innovations in Electric Vehicle Charging Technology
  • Global Trends in Sustainable Urban Mobility
  • Case Studies on Green Public Transportation Initiatives

Seattle’s bold stride towards integrating double-decker electric buses with wireless charging is more than a transportation upgrade; it’s a commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future. As cities around the globe watch and learn, Seattle’s pioneering spirit in green transit sets a benchmark for others to follow.

References and Facts

  • Seattle will deploy double-decker electric buses with inductive wireless charging technology, a first in the US. Sound Transit has ordered 33 Alexander Dennis Enviro500EV double-decker electric buses and 15 60-foot articulated electric buses powered by 13 300 kW in-ground inductive chargers made by InductEV1.
  • The electric buses will serve Sound Transit’s new Stride bus rapid transit along Interstate 405, linking areas north, east, and south of Lake Washington. They are scheduled for delivery in 2026 and will be charged on route and in depots due to the region’s significant renewable energy sources1.
  • Seattle is set to introduce double-decker electric transit buses with inductive in-ground wireless charging along their routes, aiming to enhance sustainable public transportation3.
  • Sound Transit’s initiative will make Seattle the first location in North America to deploy double-decker electric buses with inductive wireless charging technology, marking a significant step towards eco-friendly public transportation4.