Transit authority rolls out $3M zero-emission buses in Columbia

The Midlands region has new environmentally friendly buses roaming its streets.

The Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority (The COMET) has deployed its new zero-emission buses into passenger service, according to a news release. Funded by a $2.9 million grant awarded by the Federal Transit Administration in 2021, the project brings two battery-electric and two hydrogen fuel cell buses to The COMET’s fleet — marking a major milestone in clean transit for the Midlands, the release stated.

The new vehicles are now in pilot service and will be fully integrated into daily routes starting in May 2025.

“This is a moment of celebration for our community and a major leap forward in sustainable transit,” said Allison Terracio, Chair of The COMET board of directors in the release. “Our commitment to cleaner air, innovative transit solutions, and regional growth continues with the launch of these cutting-edge vehicles.”

A clean, forward-thinking investment

The COMET’s award under the FTA’s Low or No Emission Vehicle Program supports both vehicle acquisition and the necessary charging and fueling infrastructure, the release stated. The investment reflects the agency’s long-term strategy to modernize public transportation while reducing emissions and improving service quality.

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“This is the result of four years of strategic planning and hard work by our team,” said Michelle Ransom, The COMET’s grants and regional coordination manager. “We’re thrilled to see our vision become reality and excited for passengers to experience these innovative new buses.”

Features of the battery-electric buses (Xcelsior CHARGE NG):

• Up to 254 miles per charge
• Features fast-charging capability and simplified maintenance
• Ideal for urban and high-frequency service routes
• Hydrogen Fuel Cell Buses (Xcelsior CHARGE FC™):
• Up to 370 miles on a single refill
• Emission-free with only water vapor as a byproduct
• Quick refueling in under 20 minutes for maximum uptime

Combined, these vehicles are projected to eliminate up to 540 tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually compared to traditional diesel buses, according to the release.

“This deployment marks a significant achievement in our transition to a more sustainable fleet,” added Maurice Pearl, executive director/CEO of The COMET. “We thank the FTA for its continued partnership and look forward to expanding zero-emission mobility throughout the Midlands.”

The COMET serves Richland and Lexington Counties with:

• 34 fixed routes, OnDemand/ReFlex service, UofSC Transit, and ADA transportation
• More than 1.8 million annual passenger trips
• Partnerships with Uber, Lyft, Enterprise, and Enterprise to support equitable access to transit

This rollout aligns with federal, state, and local climate goals, including emissions reduction, energy efficiency, and economic development through infrastructure investment, the release stated.