BAE Systems to provide electric-drive systems for Philadelphia’s new fleet of transit buses

ENDICOTT, N.Y. — The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) has selected BAE Systems to supply up to 340 electric-drive systems for its new fleet of low-emission transit buses.

BAE Systems will provide 220 electric-drive systems to New Flyer of America Inc. over the next three years, with an option for 120 additional systems, per a company news release. Incorporating BAE’s latest technology for future zero-emission platforms, the Series-ER (electric range) systems will deliver significant emission reductions and fuel savings across the fleet, BAE Systems contends.

BAE will provide production and service support for the Series-ER systems at its facility in Endicott.

Series-ER systems include the modular accessory power system, described as a next-generation component that uses advanced materials for increased electrical efficiency, BAE Systems said. This order of electric-hybrid applications will “benefit” from BAE’s newest technology, which is also designed to be integrated on battery-electric and fuel-cell powered buses, the company added.

“We are supporting SEPTA’s environmental goals with green technology that improves air quality for the greater Philadelphia community,” Steve Trichka, VP and general manager of power & propulsion solutions at BAE Systems, said. “Our electric-drive system provides transit operators with a highly reliable, flexible option to bring them one step closer to a zero-emission future.”

The Series-ER system includes an electric motor, onboard energy storage, and smart controls to create a “clean, integrated” electric propulsion and accessory power system for the buses. The system also provides zero-emission operation via BAE Systems’ “industry-leading experience” with engine stop and start, and geofenced green-zone technology.

The onboard charger and advanced energy recovery enables Series-ER to deliver zero emissions “without the need for grid-connected charging,” per the release.

About BAE Systems

BAE Systems develops and services its technology at its facilities in Endicott (Broome County) and in the United Kingdom (UK). Headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of UK–based BAE Systems plc, a global defense, security, and aerospace company. Its website says the firm employs nearly 90,000 globally. That figure includes more than 1,300 employees in Endicott, per a company spokesman.

BAE Systems says it has 25 years of experience developing and fielding electric-propulsion systems and accessories for transit buses. The company’s Series-ER technology is helping transit agencies “bridge the gap” to zero emissions without infrastructure requirements for vehicle charging.

BAE Systems has more than 14,000 propulsion systems in service on transit buses around the globe, including in cities such as New York City, San Francisco, Montreal, and London.