WAILUKU, Hawaii — Maui County’s Department of Transportation unveiled six new GILLIG BAE hybrid electric buses on Friday, according to a news release.

The 35-foot ADA low-floor energy-efficient buses can carry up to 40 passengers and will be deployed in Central Maui for the time being.

What You Need To Know

  • Maui County’s Dept. of Transportation unveiled six new hybrid electric buses on Friday

  • The buses’ hybrid drive system improves fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions

  • A key feature is the ability for the bus to run in full electric mode using geofencing technology and when acceleration is needed, an energy storage system provides energy on demand

One of the key features of the buses is the ability to set up green zones along the route through the use of geofencing technology that will allow the buses to run on full electric mode. Each bus also has a rooftop battery powered by a diesel generator that can produce up to 31.8 kilowatts.

“These hybrid buses represent an investment in protecting the environment and improving the health and quality of life of our residents,” said Mayor Michael Victorino. “With improved fuel efficiency, we save money and reduce carbon emissions that contribute to global warming and climate change.”

Each bus has a hybrid drive system that employs a diesel engine coupled to a generator and an electric motor. The system is powered by a six-cylinder, clean diesel engine, an electrical drive unit, controller module, power processor and energy storage system, according to the release.

During acceleration, the internal electric motor assists the diesel engine. When coasting or braking, the motor converts vehicle momentum into electrical energy that is then stored in a system on the roof. This process helps slow the vehicle and minimize brake wear, and allows the generated energy to be used later.

GILLIG in Livermore, California, manufactured the hybrid buses that offer multiple features, including the ability to convert fuel into propulsion energy, reducing energy consumption, emissions and noise; easy-access low-floor design; an energy storage system on the roof that provides energy on demand to assist with acceleration; a start/stop mode that allows the bus to run on pure electric when it comes to a complete stop; and a wheelchair tie-down system that enables bus drivers to secure wheelchairs in less than one minute.

Information on the Maui Bus, fixed routes and ADA paratransit program are available on the Dept. of Transportation website.

Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii.