ALBUQUERQUE – ABQ RIDE announced today the addition of five new electric vans to its fleet as part of the ABQ RIDE Connect pilot program. The announcement was made at the Ken Sanchez Transit Facility, attended by city officials, transit staff, and community members, marking a significant step toward 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.”
The Ford E-Transit electric vans offer several advantages over 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 for further price reductions as technology advances. Key features include:
- Seven-person capacity with six seats plus a wheelchair
- Handicap lift for a wheelchair
- Three-point harness seatbelts for children
- 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 emphasized that integrating electric vans aligns with the City’s sustainability goals. “They allow us to improve access and equity for our transit users while creating a greener future for us all,” he stated.
City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn highlighted the importance of the ABQ RIDE Connect microtransit pilot program. “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,” she said.
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. Users hail rides 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.
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 help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and alleviate traffic congestion while building a strong, resourceful, and sustainable community.
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