ALBUQUERQUE – ABQ RIDE announced the addition of five new electric vans to its fleet as part of the ABQ RIDE Connect pilot program. City officials, transit staff, and community members gathered at the Ken Sanchez Transit Facility to celebrate this advancement in fleet electrification and zero emissions.
“We continue to move the needle forward to zero emissions by 2040,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “This program is taking transit to the next level of sustainability, and the electric vans will literally meet you at your doorstep to take you where you need to go.” He highlighted that the Ford E-Transit electric vans offer environmental and social benefits compared to traditional unleaded vans. They are more affordable to maintain and operate, quieter, have fewer parts and less damage potential, and are reasonably priced with expectations of further cost reductions as technology advances. Other features include a seven-person capacity with six seats plus a wheelchair, a handicap lift for wheelchairs, three-point harness seat belts for children, and quick-charging stations.
“ABQ RIDE is committed to zero emissions to lower our greenhouse gas emissions and is thrilled to launch these electric vans as a welcome addition to our five electric buses,” said Transit Director Leslie Keener. “We are actively working on transitioning ABQ RIDE to be powered by alternative energy sources in the most cost-effective and strategic manner possible.”
Chief Financial Officer Kevin Sourisseau stated, “The integration of electric vans into our fleet not only aligns with the City’s sustainability goals but also fits well within our comprehensive transit operation. They allow us to improve access and equity for our transit users while creating a greener future for us all.”
City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn added, “The ABQ RIDE Connect microtransit pilot program represents a customized transit solution essential for enhancing accessibility alongside our fixed-route bus system. The introduction of electric vans further enhances this initiative. It marks a significant stride towards achieving our climate objectives by reducing vehicle usage and ensuring zero emissions from these new transit vehicles.”
Launched on March 18, 2024, ABQ RIDE Connect is a microtransit service that has provided more than 1,800 rides in the Rio Grande and Southwest Mesa service zones. Rides are hailed through an app similar to Lyft, connecting areas with minimal fixed route service.
More information about this program can be found at ABQRIDE.com. Interviews with ABQ RIDE Connect service users are available upon request.
Speakers included Kevin Sourisseau — Chief Financial Officer; Leslie Keener – Transit Director; Ann Simon – Deputy Director of Policy and Sustainability Officer; Hayley Davidson – Transit Graphic Artist; along with community members.
ABQ RIDE aims to be the first choice in transportation services for the Albuquerque Metropolitan area. By using this alternative to single-occupant vehicles, riders contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and alleviating traffic congestion while building a sustainable community.