The School District of Philadelphia is set to unveil new buses that use clean energy. The propane autogas buses are said to run about 96-percent cleaner than diesel.
The School District of Philadelphia is embracing cleaner, greener transportation by adding buses that are 96% cleaner than traditional diesel vehicles to its fleet.
On Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024, the district unveiled 38 clean propane autogas school buses that are intended to help reduce emissions and, officials said, will save the district "tens of thousands of dollars" a year to operate compared to diesel vehicles.
In a statement, school officials said the near-zero emission vehicles are intended to provide a healthier environment for students and the community while reducing costs.
"By choosing propane over diesel, the district is not only reducing harmful emissions and improving local air quality but also leading by example in adopting clean energy solutions," the district said in a statement ahead of Thursday's event. "These efforts demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to both environmental responsibility and financial stewardship, as the district can redirect savings from fuel and maintenance costs to further support student success in the classroom."
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The new buses were purchased from Blue Bird for $6.1 million following a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant which allowed for the district to receive electric buses.
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