Ohio-based EV company Endera proudly announced that it secured the US‘ first largest state electric bus contract on February 7, which is expected to materialize by 2025.
“Endera is honored to be one of the select few to successfully complete the rigorous CALACT vetting process, allowing us to offer our best-in-class electric buses to transit fleet operators throughout the state.”
Don White, Endera’s Sales Manager
About the contract
With the California Association for Coordinated Transportation (CALACT) authorization, the Basin Transit Authority (MBTA) in San Bernardino County, California, granted Endera the major contract for up to 1,000 B-Series electric buses through its distribution partner, Coachwest.
As stated above, the ordered 1,000 EVs will hit US roads by 2025.
Apart from this, CALACT plans to purchase more Endera electric buses throughout the 5-year contract. That said, the company benefited the most from any governmental purchasing contracts for electric buses in the country.
For those unaware, CALACT is the largest state transportation association in the US, with over 300 members. With the said contract, transit agencies and city and county governments that are members of the CALACT association can now acquire Endera’s B-Series all-electric shuttles through a standardized system that conforms with federal and state purchasing laws.
Endera’s All-Electric B-Series Shuttle
Endera claims that all of its models offer a fast-charging capability, aiding the issues usually faced by fleet operators. It also offers smart technology, such as the company’s proprietary dispatch software. The software efficiently performs the following role:
- routes and vehicle tracking
- automated record-keeping and energy management
- optimizes vehicle service and reporting
Additionally, Endera GO, a consumer app for enhanced riding experience, is integrated with the vehicle’s platform.
“All of our models have a fast-charging option, increasing up-time for operators, while also providing significant range capability. We have developed a fully integrated software ecosystem that makes it easier and less expensive to adopt electric buses, so fleet operators can focus on running their business.”
Endera CEO John Walsh
It is also worth noting that the B-Series is designed with a 12-passenger + 2 and a 16-passenger + 2 wheelchair seating option. Additionally, it provides other floorplans that can be opted to suit the needs of each organization. The series is the fastest-charging electric bus of its class available in the US market. Its lightweight body design maximizes range efficiency and charging time of as little as 45 minutes.
Notably, Endera’s 250,000 square-foot production plant in Ottawa, Ohio, builds both the electric powertrains and vehicle bodies, making it the only fully integrated mid-sized EV bus maker in the US.
“Endera was awarded the CALACT contract as the lowest priced vendor and the only vertically integrated one-stop-shop. We listen to our clients to learn about the problems they face and understand the solutions they need, which is why we have a superior offering in virtually every category.”
Endera CEO John Walsh
Remarkably, the clean air and climate goals set forth by California are supported by Endera’s electric shuttles and related service alliances. Apart from the electric shuttles, the company also provides vehicle design and service.
Model B8 Technical specifications
Weight and Dimensions | Specs |
Overall Length | 28′ |
Overall Height | 9′-6′ (Varies by Floorplan) |
GVWR | 14,500 lbs |
Wheelbase | 208 -212 in |
Passenger Capacity | up to 24 passengers |
Base Chassis | Ford E450 Chassis |
Electric Powertrain | Specs |
Maximum Speed | 75 mph (can be limited to lower speeds with software) |
All Electric Range | 150 miles |
Charge Time | 50 min – DC fast charge 8 hrs by AC LVL2 charger |
Popular Options | Heavy duty driver’s step Backup camera system CCTV internal camera system Front and Rear ADA compatibility (lift, grab rails, wheelchair tie downs) Sidewall & seat color options Seating fabric upgrades Luggage capacity (rear or internal rack systems) AC & Heaters |