King County Metro is launching a new fleet of battery-electric buses that the agency says will enhance transit operator safety, reduce harmful emissions and prioritize deployment in South King County communities disproportionately affected by air pollution.
Kent, Renton and Auburn will each see the new yellow and seafoam blue buses along routes. Ten buses start service on Feb. 2, but many more are on the way.
Metro signed a $111 million contract with Livermore, California-based GILLIG for 89 battery-electric buses, according to a Metro spokesperson. Metro has received 46 buses and 28 are available for service and will be brought on after testing…