Rob Black, Cabinet Secretary-Designate | New Mexico Economic Development Department
GreenPower Motor Company Inc. and the New Mexico Economic Development Department have announced the start of a two-year pilot project to deploy all-electric, zero-emission school buses in New Mexico. The initiative will take place at Las Vegas City Schools, West Las Vegas Schools, and Monte del Sol Charter School in Santa Fe.
Brendan Riley, president of GreenPower, stated, “GreenPower is pleased to begin this two-year pilot project with the State of New Mexico with three Nano BEASTs in schools that are excited to evaluate all-electric transportation options for school kids. By focusing the first year of the project on the Type A Nano BEAST, the state and school districts will have a unique opportunity to see how the all-electric vehicle performs in differing conditions with different sets of charging infrastructure.”
The project is supported by a $5 million capital outlay from the state to purchase vehicles and cover program costs. Participation by school districts is voluntary. The pilot aims to assess fast-charging viability under various conditions and will collect data on range, charging needs, maintenance savings, and user acceptance.
According to GreenPower CEO Fraser Atkinson, “Among some of the data that will be collected is range, charging infrastructure needs, handling and maneuverability, operating and maintenance savings, student and parent acceptance, and more. The data will help with the idea of change as schools look to create a new beginning of a clean, healthy school day.”
Rob Black, cabinet secretary of EDD said: “As we transition towards a more flexible, diversified, and environmentally sustainable economy, we are dedicated to achieving carbon-free power. This is also an opportunity to introduce young students to alternative energy sources. The steps we take today will not only promote a greener future but also inspire a new generation of environmental stewards.”
Melissa Sandoval from Las Vegas City Schools commented: “Las Vegas City Schools is proud to be one of three New Mexico schools participating in this first round of the GreenPower pilot project, and we look forward to seeing how an all-electric school bus can benefit our school system and students.”
Christopher Gutierrez at West Las Vegas Schools added: “We have been looking at grant opportunities to begin migrating from diesel to all-electric school buses for the past couple of years. Participating in this pilot project will allow us to determine the best ways to integrate zero-emission buses into our fleet.”
Dr. Zoe Nelson from Monte del Sol Charter School said: “Our charter school is always searching for new, innovative ways to serve our students and communities. We are honored to have been chosen to participate in the state’s all-electric school bus pilot program. Our school believes in safe, sustainable, and sensible alternatives, and I cannot wait to see the multitude of benefits this investment will yield for the deserving children of the Land of Enchantment.”
The Nano BEAST model being used features an estimated range up to 140 miles per charge with capacity for up to 24 passengers.
If successful after two phases over two years (2025-27), there are plans for additional funding up to $15 million for further electric bus purchases across New Mexico public agencies.
The effort aligns with New Mexico’s Energy Transition Act goal targeting 100% zero-carbon electricity supply by 2045 while supporting affected communities.
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