Target: Michael D. Antonovich, Metro Board Chairman
Goal: Thank LA Metro for investing in all-electric buses as part of a clean air bus technology pilot project
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, or Metro, has just purchased five new electric buses in efforts to reduce vehicle emissions, and will most likely purchase another twenty after an initial testing period. As part of a $30 million clean air bus technology pilot project, Metro will be acquiring these buses from electric vehicle manufacturer BYD Co. Ltd. The company is also contracted to implement a local jobs program at their assembly plant in Lancaster, CA. Please commend Metro’s acquisition that both invests in renewable energy and creates local jobs.
This new fleet of electric buses will test new innovations that can extend range, use lighter weight constructions, and integrate subsystems more efficiently. BYD’s iron phosphate rechargeable batteries make it possible for these 40-foot buses to travel up to 155 miles between charges, even at high capacity.
According to Los Angeles County Supervisor and Metro Board Chairman Michael D. Antonovich, “Metro already operates the nation’s largest compressed natural gas bus fleet, but this initiative sets Metro on a new course for transitioning to even cleaner electric buses that will be assembled right here in Los Angeles County.” Metro also plans to convert six of its hybrid buses to Super Low Emission Bus standards, further expanding its efforts to reduce air pollution. Please show your support of Metro’s investment in renewable energy by signing the petition.
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PETITION LETTER:
Dear Metro Board Chairman Michael D. Antonovich,
Metro’s recent purchase of up to twenty-five electric buses is a commendable move in the right direction of reducing vehicle pollution in Los Angeles. Not only is this acquisition with BYD Co. Ltd. beneficial for the environment, but for employment since more jobs will be created at BYD’s local assembly plant. Thank you for doing your part to meet vehicle emission reduction targets set by the California Air Resources Board with the implementation of your clean air bus technology pilot project.
Los Angeles has earned the top spot in a list of the most congested cities, conducted by INRIX, a traffic information and services group that collects data for individual road segments. So this addition to Metro’s fleet will be welcome to commuters interested in a cleaner transportation option. Metro has also rightfully began the process of converting six of its electric gasoline hybrid buses to Super Low Emission Standards.
Metro sets the example that all other transportation agencies in the U.S. should follow. This investment in clean, renewable technology will succeed in keeping more cars off the road and leaving less pollutants in the air. Thank you for providing Los Angeles riders with a more sustainable mode of transportation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Cassiopeia_sweet via Wikimedia Commons