Buying a new school bus fuel or energy type is no small decision for student transportation operators. Dive into this month’s issue to learn more about what factors are involved in clean fuel purchasing decisions, how to implement the kind of technology that school bus drivers actually want and need, understanding how to convert data into actionable insights and how to plan the perfect technology rollout.

Also find the latest conference news, including a recap of ACT Expo and a preview of the upcoming STN EXPO West conference, this July in Reno, Nevada.

Read the full June 2026 issue.

Cover Story

How Clean is Clean Enough?
Experts say it’s important to all weigh all factors when purchasing a new school bus fuel or energy type.

Features

Full Potential
Implementing technology solutions that drivers want and know how to use could be the secret sauce to keeping them behind the wheel.

Tackling the Data Challenge
The promise of compiled data is most beneficial when transportation leaders understand what the information means to their operations.

Special Reports

Planning the Perfect Rollout: Secrets for Successful Software, Hardware Upgrades
Choosing the timeframe for when to implement a new hardware or software project is just as important as choosing the provider.

Conversations
ACT Expo Recap
Ad Index

Editor’s Take by Ryan Gray
Alternative to Fueling Discomfort

Publisher’s Corner by Tony Corpin
Bus Tech, Energy Take Center Stage

The post June 2026 appeared first on School Transportation News.

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. — Today Zūm, the leader in modern student mobility, announced the deployment of an all-electric school bus fleet to San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD). Powered by Zum’s Connected Mobility Experience (CMX) solution, the deployment will combine electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, routing intelligence, real-time operations, and transparency for families into its single integrated transportation system. All electric buses will be supported by modern charging infrastructure with built-in bidirectional vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities, making this bidirectional electric school bus fleet the largest in the United States.

Zum celebrated Phase One of the electrification effort today at a groundbreaking event attended by local and state leaders, including State Senator Scott Wiener; Superintendent Maria Su; San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu; SFUSD Commissioner Gupta and SFUSD Commissioner Ray.

“Today marks a major achievement in Zum’s national electrification efforts as well as an exciting evolution of our successful partnership with San Francisco Unified School District,” said Ritu Narayan, CEO of Zum. “This state-of-the-art electric fleet, combined with Zum’s CMX technology, will improve the mobility experience for students, families, and drivers while strengthening grid reliability and resiliency for the entire community. We are building connected mobility infrastructure that benefits both schools and cities.

In August of 2026, Zum will deploy 104 electric school buses with bidirectional charging infrastructure in San Francisco. These buses will provide quiet, zero-emission transportation to students and will have the capability to return approximately 3 gigawatt-hours of clean energy to the local grid annually during peak hours, providing power to 1.2 million homes for up to 3-4 hours. Plans include adding additional electric buses to complete the 2027-2028 school year to make a total of 238 EVs with bidirectional charging in San Francisco.

This project has been made possible through the strong support of EPA Region 9, the California Energy Commission, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, and PG&E through a combination of grants and incentive programs focused on advancing clean transportation, electrification, and grid resilience infrastructure.

“This investment reflects our commitment to improving the daily experience for students and families by providing safer, quieter, cleaner, and more reliable transportation to and from school, while also advancing the district’s long-term operational and sustainability goals,” said Superintendent Dr. Maria Su. “Through the partnership between SFUSD, Zum, our Board of Education, the City of San Francisco, transportation staff, and families, we are building a transportation system designed to better serve students today and support future generations.”

“This milestone represents a historic moment for San Francisco Unified and the city’s broader sustainability goals,” said Senator Scott Wiener. “These electric school buses will deliver cleaner air and a quieter ride for students, giving them the best possible start to the school day. During peak demand hours, the buses will return energy to the local grid, improving affordability and resiliency for the city. Together, Zum and SFUSD are setting a national standard for cleaner, more sustainable transportation.”

A Five-Year Record of Modernization Through Zum CMX

SFUSD chose Zum to modernize student transportation through Zum’s Connected Mobility Experience (Zum CMX) -a fully integrated technology and operations system that connects people, vehicles, and infrastructure in real time.

Partnering with Zum, students, families, and schools across the district have experienced:

• 98% on average on-time performance;
• 100% route coverage with zero driver shortages;
• Competitive pay, guaranteed hours, and full benefits for drivers;
• Approximately $3.5 million in annual transportation cost savings for the District, reducing the transportation budget by 10%;
• Real-time bus tracking, ETAs, and live communication through the Zum parent app, which has received more than 392,100 five-star ratings from SFUSD families.
• The Zum CMX system orchestrates the entire transportation ecosystem -from routing, dispatch, and fleet operations to driver workflows, parent communication, and energy management – creating a more reliable, transparent, and efficient experience for all stakeholders.

Electrification That Benefits the Entire Community

Zum’s electric fleet in San Francisco will strengthen grid resilience by enabling school bus batteries to return energy to the local grid at scale when not in use. This vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capacity transforms what has traditionally been an underutilized transportation asset into a strategic distributed energy resource — improving reliability, maximizing the value of district infrastructure, and supporting long-term sustainability goals.

Integrated through Zum’s CMX platform, the electric fleet and charging network will enable real-time intelligent orchestration of transportation operations and energy use, helping optimize fleet performance while supporting grid stability during peak demand periods.

A proven leader in electrification and V2G technology, Zum launched the nation’s first all-electric school bus fleet in 2024 in Oakland. In April, Zum announced the deployment of a fully electric school bus fleet for Branford Public Schools, which will make Branford the largest fully electric school district in the Northeast with V2G capabilities.

Adopted in 17 states across more than 4,500 schools, Zum partners with major districts including Omaha Public Schools, Boston Public Schools, Kansas City Public Schools, Los Angeles Unified, and Seattle Public Schools. Zum’s fully integrated Connected Mobility Experience (Zum CMX) system is designed to connect people, vehicles, and operations in real time, reducing anxiety and creating reliable, safe, and seamless transportation for families and schools.

To learn more about how Zum is leading the nation in safe, reliable, and connected student mobility, visit Zum.

About Zum

Zum is revolutionizing mass mobility with its Connected Mobility Experience (Zum CMX) system that connects and coordinates people, vehicles, and operations in real time. In the $50 billion student mobility market – the largest segment of the mass mobility industry – Zum CMX is transforming a daily source of anxiety and disruption into a reliable, transparent, and efficient mobility experience for students and families. Today, more than 4,500 schools rely on Zum CMX. Recognized globally for its innovative approach and operational execution, Zum has been named to Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies, CNBC Disruptor 50 and Changemakers, the World Economic Forum, and the Financial Times’ Fastest Growing Companies lists. Zum is backed by leading investors including Sequoia Capital, GIC, SoftBank, and TPG. Zum, Zum CMX, and associated logos are trademarks of Zum Services, Inc. All rights reserved. Learn more at www.ridezum.com.

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Heliox, A Siemens Business, a leader in EV charging solutions, is proud to highlight its VersiCharge Blue 80A, engineered for the most demanding fleet and commercial vehicle charging environments. Designed to deliver up to 80A AC (19.2 kW) power output, the VersiCharge Blue 80A ensures that fleet operators can keep vehicles moving efficiently and reduce operational downtime. With Level 2 charging capability via a J1772 connector and a 24-foot cable, this solution is compatible with most standard EVs, E-Trucks and School Buses, and streamlines installation and daily operation for maximum flexibility and reach.

This charger exemplifies robust quality, featuring Buy America compliance to meet government procurement requirements and ENERGY STAR certification to support lower operational costs and high energy efficiency. Safety remains paramount, as the VersiCharge Blue 80A holds multiple UL listings and carries a NEMA 4 and IK10 rating to ensure exceptional resilience against extreme temperatures, humidity, and physical impact. Backed by a 3-year warranty, customers gain peace of mind knowing their investment is safeguarded for the long haul.

Connectivity is central to the VersiCharge Blue 80A’s design, with cellular and Wi-Fi networking providing easy remote monitoring and flexible network-sharing in commercial deployments. Site safety and aesthetics are prioritized thanks to retractable cable management, reducing trip hazards and maintaining a clean, professional appearance. State-of-the-art smart charging features, including ISO15118-2 hardware readiness and OCPP 1.6J support, enable advanced load management, authentication, security, and future compatibility, while Sifinity Setup mobile app configuration simplifies multi-charger installations.

Precise energy tracking is guaranteed by embedded metering, helping operators optimize usage and manage costs. Built for resilient operation, the unit withstands wide temperature swings from -40°C to 50°C (>50°C with derating) and functions reliably in up to 98% humidity, making it ideal for harsh climates and challenging locations. Wall or post mounting options offer flexible installation for any site layout, and over-the-air (OTA) software upgrades future-proof investments by delivering remote updates and new capabilities.

Engineered for versatility, VersiCharge Blue 80A features rated current settings from 12A to 80A to easily accommodate varying power needs across fleet and facility applications. Its recommended wire cross section of 3 AWG with a 90°C minimum ensures safe, high-capacity wiring and consistent performance even under heavy usage. Built-in ground fault and overvoltage protection shield both users and vehicles against electrical risks, while multicolor LED indicators provide instant feedback on charging status, connectivity, and fault diagnostics to streamline site management.

Advanced OCPP and ISO15118-2 user authentication deliver enterprise-grade security and fleet management capability. The charger operates at altitudes up to 6,562 feet, expanding site possibilities in high-elevation regions, and customizable mounting options ensure seamless integration in diverse venues.

​​With VersiCharge Blue 80A, Heliox, A Siemens Business, is bringing a powerful blend of reliability, safety, and intelligent connectivity to the heart of fleet and commercial EV operations, enabling customers to scale with confidence as electrification demands grow.

About Heliox, A Siemens Business
Heliox, A Siemens Business, delivers world class EV charging equipment, EV charger maintenance and support services, and robust solutions for a broad range of EV fleets. Our portfolio encompasses all aspects of smart and efficient AC and DC charging infrastructure, including IoT-connected hardware, software, and a comprehensive service offering. Heliox manufactures UL compliant products that meet Buy America Act (BAA) and Build America Buy America (BABA) standards. Heliox’s high-quality, field-proven charging products are now backed by Siemens’ financial strength, global reach, and long-term stability—delivering the best of both worlds.

For more information, visit www.heliox-energy.com.

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WOODRIDGE, Ill. – Hendrickson, a global leader in reliable ride solutions for the commercial transportation industry, is introducing ELECTRAAX, powered by Driventic, a high‑efficiency, lightweight electric drive axle engineered for Class 6–7 school bus and medium-duty truck applications.

Integrated, modular design for Electric Vehicle (EV) efficiency
ELECTRAAX features a fully integrated ePowertrain that combines the axle, single-speed gearbox, motor, and inverter into one system to maximize efficiency. This design helps deliver up to 94% system‑level efficiency, which can extend vehicle range and reduce energy requirements based on internal testing.

The fabricated, modular architecture is designed for ultimate flexibility, with a wide range of track width, gear train, suspension, and brake options to align with diverse chassis platforms and vehicle specifications. This integrated system design combined with a lightweight fabricated axle housing helps address EV weight and efficiency targets by reducing system mass, helping extend range, enabling potential battery reduction, and supporting lower total cost of ownership.

Key design advantages include:

Full motor torque regenerative braking, helping maximize energy recovery
Single-speed gearbox design, reducing friction and weight compared to multi-speed gearboxes

Ride quality, applications, and a new electric milestone
A single-speed gearbox provides a smooth ride without shift‑quality concerns for pickup‑and‑delivery duty cycles, while reducing component count to support increased long‑term reliability. Driventic’s electric drive system adds an efficient motor with a power‑dense inverter to deliver extended peak torque for sustained, consistent power during acceleration, hill climbs, and heavy hauling.

ELECTRAAX is purpose-built for Class 6–7 medium-duty commercial vehicles, focusing on school buses and pickup-and-delivery trucks (including food, beverage, and last-mile). This focus helps OEMs and fleets meet stringent battery and weight requirements, balance route performance and payload, and support more cost‑effective EV adoption by reducing weight and improving efficiency simultaneously.

Co‑engineered with Driventic (formerly Voith), ELECTRAAX combines Hendrickson’s 110+ years of ride solution innovation with Driventic’s 155 years of electric‑drive system expertise. With centuries of combined global engineering leadership, the partnership is delivering cutting‑edge EV technology and accelerating the shift to electrified mobility. ELECTRAAX gives OEMs and customers tangible validation of next‑generation electric drive suspension capability and reinforces Hendrickson’s position as an innovation leader in commercial vehicle systems. ELECTRAAX represents two milestones, one breakthrough: Hendrickson’s first drive axle and first electric axle, marking a new era in Hendrickson innovation for electric commercial vehicle systems.

Built on Hendrickson’s proven suspension heritage and aligned with its Reliable by Design philosophy, ELECTRAAX, powered by Driventic, is built to move what’s next for medium‑duty electrification.

About Hendrickson
Hendrickson, a Boler company, is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of medium- and heavy‑duty mechanical, elastomeric, and air suspensions; integrated and non‑integrated axle and brake systems; tire pressure control systems; auxiliary lift axle systems; parabolic and multi‑leaf springs; stabilizers; bumpers; and other components for the global commercial transportation industry. Based in Woodridge, IL, USA, Hendrickson has served the transportation industry for more than 100 years. Visit www.hendrickson-intl.com.

About Driventic
Driventic is the specialist for efficient drive technologies in commercial vehicles. Whether for use in used in e-mobility or conventional drives, Driventic’s complete systems and digital services are drivers of the mobility transition – because they enable manufacturers and operators alike to sustainably operate their trucks, buses and off-highway vehicles. The company’s 1,400 employees at 26 locations in 18 countries are dedicated to one mission: to combine ecology with technological progress in the service of efficiency. This is what Driventic understands by ‘Mobility beyond today’.

The post Built to Move What’s Next: Hendrickson Introduces ELECTRAAX, Powered by Driventic appeared first on School Transportation News.

Buying a new car is almost always a terrible financial decision. But losing nearly $50,000 in a single year after just a few thousand miles takes things to an entirely different level of painful. Unfortunately for Edmunds, that’s exactly what happened with its 2024 Charger Daytona Scat Pack.

Unlike many magazines and websites, that simply borrow their long-term test cars from automakers, Edmunds buys them with real cash. True, it got a small discount from Dodge on the as-tested price of $85,965, but it still paid a hefty $82,000 to get behind the wheel of Detroit’s first electric muscle car.

Related: The Last Dodge Challengers Were Supposed To Age Into Money, Not Lose $14,000 With Delivery Mileage

But 12 months later when it came time to move the car on, Edmunds was shocked to find its Daytona was worth just $35,000. That’s almost a 60 percent hit, and not because the road test team had put a lifetime’s worth of miles on the EV. It had covered less than 7,000 miles (11,300 km), which is the kind of distance some drivers do in six months.

Even worse, the massive financial hit came after most of the Edmunds staff spent a year actively disliking the thing. Reading through their long-term test notes would be enough to send anyone wavering over which pony car to buy straight into the arms of a V8-powered Ford Mustang Dark Horse.

Digital Headaches

Complaints ranged from glitchy infotainment and strange drivetrain clunks to awkward ergonomics and bizarre software behavior. One editor described the fake Fratzonic exhaust sound as “an insult to V8s everywhere,” while another said the car was simply “boring,” which is probably the most brutal criticism you can level at something wearing a Charger badge.

Others hated the turning circle, massive dimensions, inconsistent regen braking, and handling that apparently couldn’t back up the car’s straight-line punch. But the year didn’t pass without the Charger getting some praise. Several staffers liked the styling, roomy hatchback practicality and surprisingly good range. The 670 hp (679 PS /500 kW) Daytona managed 255 miles (410 km) in real world use, comfortably beating its pathetic official EPA estimate of 216 miles (348 km).

“The Charger was a big, expensive disappointment,” the outlet said, summing up the year-long experience. “We won’t miss having this thing in our fleet.”

Dodge

LAS VEGAS — Is there a world for autonomous school buses, after all? This industry might not have a choice, according to Rivian CEO and founder R.J. Scaringe.

Conversations increased at ACT Expo this week around autonomous commercial vehicles, with several experts indicating during sessions that self-driving trucks powered by AI will explode onto the scene over the coming decade. That point was punctuated Wednesday morning by Scaringe.

“We’re going to see changes that are maybe the most significant from [a] societal impact in the history of the adult world, where we’ll have AI capabilities that can do a very large percentage of tasks that today are done by humans, that’ll free up human bandwidth to do other things,” he said during a main stage fireside chat.

“I’m of the view that we as the humans are going to continue to find higher value ways to use our time,” he added.

Scaringe suggested that over the next decade a “significant portion” of both consumer and commercial vehicles will be electric. And they will be “connected, highly intelligent” and drive themselves.

“And when I say that, I think the important thing to consider is, if you don’t have those things, what does that mean?” he asked the audience. “By 2035, if you’re a large-scale vehicle manufacturer, whether it’s on the consumer side or the commercial side, and you don’t have a connected, highly intelligent platform that’s running the software and electronics vehicle, and the vehicle doesn’t have self-driving capabilities, it’s hard to imagine maintaining market share.”

The question remains will school buses be driving themselves? Based on ACT Expo, where the commercial truck and bus industry leaders gathered, it is looking more likely. Many truck innovations eventually work their way onto and into school buses.

Amid more chatter on the role autonomous will play, notably first for heavy-duty trucking and last-mile delivery, fleets have definitively increased the use of data and connected technologies to drive more ROI, as shown by this year’s State of Sustainable Fleets report released at the conference.

Nearly everyone agrees autonomous technology for school buses won’t mean adult-less routes to and from school with rowdy children left to their own devices. But as Scaringe, opined, autonomous school buses could beg the question of how to redeploy school bus drivers as safety aides. Might that improve the driver shortage that the school bus industry has long suffered with? A leading cause of drivers leaving school districts is student on-board behavior and a real or perceived lack of support in addressing challenges.

Scaringe also discussed his new robotics company, Mind Robotics focused on AI-powered robots for industrial automation, launched earlier this year. The venture is using factory data at Rivian to actively explore human-like capabilities for industrial applications. My mind immediately wandered back to the school bus. Humanoids working with the children? What about the potential implications on how school bus data — and that from other motorists in an increasingly connected world — could further train and automate route operations? A robot blocking traffic to allow students safer passage to and from their bus stops, perhaps?

The sky is the limit.

Re-energized Talks About Electric School Buses

Meanwhile, electric vehicles, which had been the main draw for ACT Expo over the last several years, re-emerged on day three with several exhibit floor presentations about V2G deployment following Scaringe’s talk on the mainstage.

V2G is showing gains, as charge management continues to be a must for fleets. This was evidenced by projects stretching from California and Oregon to New Jersey and New England. Challenges remain, presenters OpConnect, The Mobility House and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Quality admitted. The least of which being how utility providers are setting rates for what school districts can earn for feeding the grid. But the presentations also demonstrated the successes and learned opportunities. Those figures are only expected to increase as the EPA Clean School Bus Program is expected to return this spring.

On Monday after the exhibitor floor opened, Zenobe facilitated a discussion about a complex yet successful school bus electrification project in Massachusetts. It relied on a collaborative effort between Zenobe to identify grants and incentives as well as implement the charging infrastructure alongside school bus contractor Beacon Mobility, OEMs Micro Bird and Thomas Built Buses, Mass CEC and National Grid.

Also on Monday, propane school buses continued to show ROI. Anthony Jackson, director of student transportation for Bibb County Schools in Georgia, shared his experiences with the fuel. Savings from using propane rather than diesel has resulted in savings of nearly $3 million over the last several school years and an over 30 percent decrease in cost per mile in fuel alone, to $0.27 per mile when operating propane compared to $0.39 per mile with diesel. The maintenance savings were even better at a nearly 49-percent reduction, to $0.23 per mile with propane from $0.45 per mile with diesel.

Evident at ACT Expo was the wide reach of connected vehicles and data driving AI activity. That realization, after all, spurred an event rebrand by producer TRC Clean Solutions to expand the acronym that originally stood for advanced clean transportation to encompass AI and autonomous, connected and technology.

Eric Neandross, president of TRC Clean Transportation Solutions, on Tuesday asked an OEM panel, which included International Motors CEO Mathias Carlbaum, if in 25 years their companies will be technology providers rather than simply truck manufacturers. But the answers turned attention back to diesel remaining a major player for decades to come, burning cleaner and cleaner while continuing to supplement battery-electric and all the connected software that goes with it.

Things haven’t changed that much, after all.

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Related: Intersection of Autonomous Vehicles and School Buses
Related: Autonomous Vehicle Implications
Related: You Can’t Spell Training Without AI

The post An Autonomous Near-Future? ‘AI’ Think So appeared first on School Transportation News.

Heliox, A Siemens Business, a leader in EV charging solutions, is proud to highlight its VersiCharge Blue 80A, engineered for the most demanding fleet and commercial vehicle charging environments. Designed to deliver up to 80A AC (19.2 kW) power output, the VersiCharge Blue 80A ensures that fleet operators can keep vehicles moving efficiently and reduce operational downtime. With Level 2 charging capability via a J1772 connector and a 24-foot cable, this solution is compatible with most standard EVs, E-Trucks and School Buses, and streamlines installation and daily operation for maximum flexibility and reach.

This charger exemplifies robust quality, featuring Buy America compliance to meet government procurement requirements and ENERGY STAR certification to support lower operational costs and high energy efficiency. Safety remains paramount, as the VersiCharge Blue 80A holds multiple UL listings and carries a NEMA 4 and IK10 rating to ensure exceptional resilience against extreme temperatures, humidity, and physical impact. Backed by a 3-year warranty, customers gain peace of mind knowing their investment is safeguarded for the long haul.

Connectivity is central to the VersiCharge Blue 80A’s design, with cellular and Wi-Fi networking providing easy remote monitoring and flexible network-sharing in commercial deployments. Site safety and aesthetics are prioritized thanks to retractable cable management, reducing trip hazards and maintaining a clean, professional appearance. State-of-the-art smart charging features, including ISO15118-2 hardware readiness and OCPP 1.6J support, enable advanced load management, authentication, security, and future compatibility, while Sifinity Setup mobile app configuration simplifies multi-charger installations.

Precise energy tracking is guaranteed by embedded metering, helping operators optimize usage and manage costs. Built for resilient operation, the unit withstands wide temperature swings from -40°C to 50°C (>50°C with derating) and functions reliably in up to 98% humidity, making it ideal for harsh climates and challenging locations. Wall or post mounting options offer flexible installation for any site layout, and over-the-air (OTA) software upgrades future-proof investments by delivering remote updates and new capabilities.

Engineered for versatility, VersiCharge Blue 80A features rated current settings from 12A to 80A to easily accommodate varying power needs across fleet and facility applications. Its recommended wire cross section of 3 AWG with a 90°C minimum ensures safe, high-capacity wiring and consistent performance even under heavy usage. Built-in ground fault and overvoltage protection shield both users and vehicles against electrical risks, while multicolor LED indicators provide instant feedback on charging status, connectivity, and fault diagnostics to streamline site management.

Advanced OCPP and ISO15118-2 user authentication deliver enterprise-grade security and fleet management capability. The charger operates at altitudes up to 6,562 feet, expanding site possibilities in high-elevation regions, and customizable mounting options ensure seamless integration in diverse venues.

​​With VersiCharge Blue 80A, Heliox, A Siemens Business, is bringing a powerful blend of reliability, safety, and intelligent connectivity to the heart of fleet and commercial EV operations, enabling customers to scale with confidence as electrification demands grow.

About Heliox, A Siemens Business
Heliox, A Siemens Business, delivers world class EV charging equipment, EV charger maintenance and support services, and robust solutions for a broad range of EV fleets. Our portfolio encompasses all aspects of smart and efficient AC and DC charging infrastructure, including IoT-connected hardware, software, and a comprehensive service offering. Heliox manufactures UL compliant products that meet Buy America Act (BAA) and Build America Buy America (BABA) standards. Heliox’s high-quality, field-proven charging products are now backed by Siemens’ financial strength, global reach, and long-term stability—delivering the best of both worlds.

The post Heliox, A Siemens Business, Highlights VersiCharge Blue 80A for Fleet and Commercial EV Charging appeared first on School Transportation News.

WARRENVILLE, Ill. – In celebration of Earth Day, Summit School Services is proud to share that its local operating brands, Durham School Services and A&S Transportation, have surpassed 607,000 combined miles driven by their electric school bus fleets – a major step in creating a healthier future for the students and communities they serve. This milestone achievement spans across three locations: Cumberland, Rhode Island and Compton, California for Durham School Services and New Orleans, Louisiana for A&S Transportation.

Durham’s Cumberland location, which serves Blackstone Valley Prep, currently boasts over 277,000 clean miles driven by its fleet of 24 electric school buses, while on the west coast, Compton Unified School District, is just 3,000 miles shy of reaching a 100,000 milestone with its fleet of 25 buses.

A&S Transportation and its two partners, InspireNOLA Charter Schools and New Orleans Charter Science & Mathematics High School, have tracked 233,000 miles total with their fleet of 42 and 9 buses, respectively.

As a premier student transportation provider and strong advocate for sustainability, our Company is pleased to be able to partner with its school district partners for such an important cause that will create positive, lasting impacts that will span across generations.

Later this year and beyond, Summit’s local operating brands and their school district partners in Florida, Michigan, and Massachusetts will join the Company’s journey toward a greener, healthier future with the introduction of their new fleets of electric school buses. An additional 140+ electric school buses are anticipated to be deployed.

“What an extraordinary achievement and milestone by our teams and school district partners,” said Wayne Skinner, Senior Vice President of Fleet, Maintenance, and Procurement, Summit School Services. “It is incredible to see such tremendous, green strides being made towards creating a more sustainable, safe world for our students to live, learn, and grow in. We are lucky to have such forward-thinking, environmentally conscious school district partners with whom we share similar values and ambitions with, and who are just as dedicated to the well-being and safety of students as we are. We’ve only just scratched the surface of this EV journey, and there’s so many more destinations and miles left to drive, so please stay tuned as we continue on this road towards a greener, better tomorrow.”

About Summit School Services:
Summit School Services sets the standard for safe, reliable student transportation across North America. As the parent organization to trusted local operators including Durham School Services, Stock Transportation, and Petermann Bus, Summit supports over 360 school districts. Driven by our five values: Safety, Care, Transparency, Communities, and Culture, we deliver transportation that works consistently, reliably, and without disruption.

The post Summit School Services Continues Journey Towards a Greener Tomorrow with 600K EV Milestone appeared first on School Transportation News.

Hamilton Southeastern Schools district leaders in Indianapolis prioritize a drive toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.

That commitment was recognized earlier this month when the district was named 2026 School Bus Fleet of the Year by Drive Clean Indiana, the state’s clean cities coalition, recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy, during the organization’s annual Breakfast of Champions in Indianapolis.

The March 16 recognition occurred alongside Work Truck Week, where industry stakeholders gathered to celebrate advancements in clean transportation. The Breakfast of Champions featured a keynote address by four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves, underscoring the broader connection between performance, innovation and energy.

The award highlights a year of progress for one of Indiana’s largest school districts. In June 2024, School Transportation News visited Hamilton Southeastern Schools ahead of its STN EXPO East conference in Indianapolis. At the time, Director of Transportation Zach McKinney said the department had one electric school bus purchased in 2022. McKinney was recognized as a 2020 STN Rising Star. He currently serves as president and director-at-large for the School Transportation Association of Indiana.

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Related: (STN Podcast E213) Onsite at STN EXPO Indy: Driver Shortage & School Bus Safety Convos
Related: Technology Return on Investment Isn’t Solely Monetary, Session Advises
Related: 2020 Rising Stars Announced: Recognizing Those Excelling in the Industry

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McKinney previously told STN the electric transition has been a good experience, and now he and his staff have the knowledge needed to provide feedback to others. However, he added it’s hard for the district to subsidize the cost financially without the aid of grants.

“It’s not obtainable by most school districts,” he said last June, adding that he’s not going to sacrifice the purchasing two and half diesel buses for the same money it takes to buy one electric bus.

However, McKinney shared with STN last week that Hamilton Southeastern was awarded funding for nine more electric school buses.

The post Electric School Bus Adoption Leads to Award for Indiana’s Hamilton Southeastern Schools appeared first on School Transportation News.

ATLANTA — Heliox, A Siemens Business, a leader in EV charging solutions, introduces the H60D fast charger, a compact, high-utilization solution designed for a wide range of vehicles including cars, buses, and trucks. The system combines a dynamic power allocation between its two CCS1 outlets, broad EV and backend compatibility, and flexible mounting options to support higher charger usage across a wide variety of sites.

The H60D enables two parallel charging sessions from a single unit, cutting both hardware spend and footprint while increasing the number of vehicles that can be served at each location. Both outlets can operate simultaneously and share power dynamically, allowing operators to either deliver the full 60 kW to one vehicle or distribute power between two vehicles as demand shifts throughout the day. With 60 kW rated output and up to 150 A maximum DC current, the charger delivers efficient DC charging for a variety of cars, buses, and trucks, helping reduce overall charging time and keep assets in service.

EV compatibility is supported by US-based in-house testing and development capabilities, ensuring seamless integration. The charger’s flexible design allows deployment as wall- or pedestal-mounted and in either networked or standalone configurations, so operators can scale and customize installations to match site constraints and operational priorities. A new RFID capability expands driver access management, enabling Heliox products to deliver flexible authentication across fleet operations. Peak efficiency above 96% minimizes power losses and energy use while maximizing energy delivered to vehicles. A NEMA 3R-rated enclosure enables safe, reliable operation indoors or outdoors and is engineered to stand up to daily wear and tear, expanding siting options from depots and yards to parking lot environments. A compact, low-profile enclosure helps operators fit chargers into new or existing facilities with minimal disruption, further decreasing benchmark installation time through design improvements.

Built for interoperability and future-readiness, the H60D supports the SAE J1772 (CCS Type-1) standard, providing compatibility with the dominant North American DC fast-charging connector. A broad 200–1,000 V DC output range enables support for today’s and next-generation commercial EV battery platforms, protecting infrastructure investments as vehicle technology evolves. Communication based on open standards, incl. OCPP 1.6J and OCPP 2.0.1, enables robust vehicle-to-charger connectivity and supports advanced smart-charging capabilities.

Engineered and manufactured in the United States, the H60D leverages domestic engineering and production quality standards, with system-wide durability and thermal upgrades that support consistent performance over the product’s lifecycle. Rated to operate from -22°F to +131°F, the charger delivers reliable performance across diverse climates and seasonal conditions, enabling nationwide deployment strategies without extensive customization.

To support long-term reliability and predictable lifecycle performance, the H60D includes a standard 24‑month warranty and optional preventative maintenance programs that help operators maintain high uptime and optimize asset performance over the charger’s service life. This comprehensive support model gives fleets and site hosts confidence that their charging infrastructure will perform reliably and remain a strong, future-ready asset in their operations.

About Heliox, A Siemens Business

Heliox, A Siemens Business, delivers world class EV charging equipment, services, and robust solutions for a broad range of EV fleets. Our portfolio encompasses all aspects of smart and efficient AC and DC charging infrastructure, including IoT-connected hardware, software, and a comprehensive service offering. Designed and manufactured in North America, Heliox builds UL and CSA compliant products that also meet Build America, Buy America Act (BABA) standards. Heliox’s high-quality, field-proven charging products are now backed by Siemens’ financial strength, global reach, and long-term stability—delivering the best of both worlds.

For more information, visit www.heliox-energy.com.

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Heliox, A Siemens Business (Heliox), a leader in EV charging solutions, will showcase its latest fleet and commercial EV charging innovations at the EV Charging Summit & Expo, taking place March 17–19, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at Booth 641. The company will feature its versatile Heliox 60 kW DC chargers, including the new dual-port pedestal and single-port mobile units. It will also showcase its next-generation Heliox 44 kW V2G bidirectional DC charger and the powerful VersiCharge Blue 80A AC Series. Together, these solutions underscore Heliox’s commitment to reliable, future-ready infrastructure for fleets, depots, and commercial sites.

Heliox will spotlight its 60 kW chargers, delivering compact, adaptable DC fast charging for cars, buses, and trucks, making it ideal for depots, maintenance yards, and temporary or evolving sites. The lineup now includes the new Heliox 60 kW Dual, which offers two outlets for parallel charging and dynamic power sharing (1×60 kW or 2×30 kW) to optimize CAPEX utilization and serve more vehicles from a single unit. Available in both hardwired and portable configurations, in networked or standalone operation, and in single- and dual-connect variants, the system can be deployed as a single unit or in multiples and mounted on a wall, pedestal, or mobile cart to match each fleet’s power availability and long-term growth plans.

Heliox will showcase its 44 kW V2G DC charger, a next generation bidirectional solution that enables vehicles to both charge quickly and discharge energy back to the grid or facility, helping fleets turn parked EVs like school buses, into flexible energy assets. Designed and manufactured in the United States, the system supports grid services and new revenue opportunities while offering a compact design and intuitive operation to support long term reliability in demanding fleet environments.

Building on this DC fast charging and V2G foundation, Heliox will also feature the VersiCharge Blue 80A AC Series, a powerful Level 2 AC charger engineered for fleets, school buses, and commercial EV applications. Delivering up to 80A and 19.2 kW of power with flexible installation options and connected smart charging features, the VersiCharge Blue 80A AC Series helps operators manage energy use, control costs, and seamlessly integrate AC charging into modern depots, yards, and workplaces.

As part of the event program, Job van Campen will join other industry leaders on a panel session titled “V2G: Harnessing EVs as a Grid Resource for Reliability and Resiliency” on March 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. PT. During the session, he will explore how vehicle-to-grid technology can transform EV fleets into dynamic grid assets, enabling operators and utilities to enhance reliability, support the integration of renewable energy, and create new economic value from existing fleet investments. Attendees can visit Booth 641 to continue the conversation with Heliox experts and see how solutions like the Heliox 44 kW V2G can support real-world use cases, from demand response and peak shaving to backup power during outages.

Across its 44 kW V2G, 60 kW DC chargers, and VersiCharge Blue 80A AC Series platforms, Heliox, A Siemens Business, continues to deliver smart, efficient, and reliable charging solutions backed by global expertise and robust local support. With UL compliant, Build America, Buy America ready products, advanced connectivity, and comprehensive service offerings showcased at Booth 641, the company is positioned to help fleets, operators, and commercial customers scale electrification with confidence as infrastructure demands grow.

About Heliox, A Siemens Business:
Heliox, A Siemens Business, delivers world class EV charging equipment, services, and robust solutions for a broad range of EV fleets. Our portfolio encompasses all aspects of smart and efficient AC and DC charging infrastructure, including IoT-connected hardware, software, and a comprehensive service offering. Designed and manufactured in North America, Heliox builds UL and CSA compliant products that also meet Build America, Buy America Act (BABA) standards. Heliox’s high-quality, field-proven charging products are now backed by Siemens’ financial strength, global reach, and long-term stability—delivering the best of both worlds. For more information, visit www.heliox-energy.com.

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VANCOUVER, Canada,  – GreenPower Motor Company Inc. (Nasdaq: GP) (“GreenPower” and the “Company”), a leading manufacturer and distributor of all-electric, purpose-built, zero-emission medium and heavy-duty vehicles serving the cargo and delivery market, shuttle and transit space and school bus sector, today announced that the Company has received formal notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) confirming that the Company has regained compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(b)(1), the “Equity Rule,” and otherwise satisfies all applicable criteria for continued listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market.

“Over the past few months GreenPower has completed a series of transactions including raising new capital with an equity offering of Series A Convertible Preferred Shares for up to $18 million, term loans of $5 million and a new banking relationship with CIBC including a line of credit and term loan. In addition, the Company exchanged $7 million of related party loans for convertible debentures and $3 million of related party loans for Series B Convertible Preferred Shares,” said Fraser Atkinson, CEO of GreenPower. “These transactions have helped the Company regain full compliance with the Nasdaq listing criteria as well as with the execution of our strategic goals.”

Notwithstanding the Nasdaq compliance determination, the Company will remain subject to a Panel monitor for one year. If, within that one-year monitoring period, Staff finds the Company again out of compliance with the Equity Rule that was the subject of the hearing, the Company will be subject to a delisting determination and will not have the opportunity to present a compliance plan for the Staff’s consideration. However, the Company will be afforded the opportunity to request a hearing before the Hearings Panel, and the hearing request will automatically stay any suspension or delisting action pending the conclusion of the hearings process and the expiration of any additional extension period granted by the Panel following the hearing.

The Company’s common stock will continue to trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “GP.”

About GreenPower Motor Company Inc.
GreenPower designs, builds and distributes a full suite of high-floor and low-floor all-electric medium and heavy-duty vehicles, including transit buses, school buses, shuttles, cargo van and a cab and chassis. GreenPower employs a clean-sheet design to manufacture all-electric vehicles that are purpose built to be battery powered with zero emissions while integrating global suppliers for key components. This OEM platform allows GreenPower to meet the specifications of various operators while providing standard parts for ease of maintenance and accessibility for warranty requirements. For further information go to www.greenpowermotor.com

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VANCOUVER, Canada  – GreenPower Motor Company Inc. (Nasdaq: GP) (“GreenPower” and the “Company”), a leading manufacturer and distributor of all-electric, purpose-built, zero-emission medium and heavy-duty vehicles serving the cargo and delivery market, shuttle and transit space and school bus sector, today reported revenue of $8.5 million and net income of $4.2 million as a part of its financial results for the period ended December 31, 2025.

“Despite significant headwinds in the EV sector in general, GreenPower has made substantial strides with its transition from building EVs on spec., to a production strategy driven by building EVs to customer orders.” said Fraser Atkinson, GreenPower Chairman and CEO. “This transition has required recapitalization of the Company, retooling our manufacturing, managing inventory, and obtaining sources of production funding.”

“GreenPower is very excited about the excellent progress in the deployment of all-electric, purpose-built school buses during the last quarter in New Mexico; Continuing to perform on the state sponsored, two-year, zero emissions school bus pilot project.” said Brendan Riley, President of GreenPower. “This project uses the compelling West Virginia pilot project as its model but is focussed on the specific needs of New Mexico school districts where there will be challenges on deploying in both city and rural settings, challenges with charging infrastructure and operating the school buses in extreme cold weather at high elevations.”

Third Quarter 2026 Highlights
Generated revenues of $8.5 million in the third quarter of the 2026 fiscal year compared to $7.2 million for the third quarter in the previous year. Revenue was generated from the sale of vehicles, parts, leases and deferred income. Gross profit on the sale of vehicles was approximately 28%.

Total sales, general and administrative costs of $2.4 million in the third quarter compared to $5.2 million for the third quarter in the previous year representing a significant reduction in the Company’s recurring expenses. Excluding non-cash items, the sales, general and administrative costs in the current quarter were less than $2 million.

Working capital of more than $5 million and increased cash from the beginning of the fiscal year.

During the quarter the Company undertook the management of the New Mexico All-Electric, Purpose-Built, Zero-Emission School Bus Pilot Program. The contract with the state of New Mexico provides funding of more than $5 million for the deployment of GreenPower’s all-electric Type A Nano BEAST, Type A Nano BEAST Access, Type D BEAST and Type D Mega BEAST school buses, charging infrastructure and management of a pilot project in the state.

During the quarter the Company raised gross proceeds of $1,120,050 from the issuance of Series A convertible preferred shares (the “Series A shares”) with a stated value of $1,179,000. The initial tranche was comprised of 754 Series A shares issued pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement and 425 Series A Shares issued in a concurrent private placement. The Company and investor agreed that a follow-on tranche of 926 Series A Shares with a stated value of $926,000 and purchase price of $879,700 will be issued at a later date. The institutional investor has the right to acquire and the Company has the right to issue additional Series A Shares in tranches of up to $2 million, subject to certain terms and conditions, to a total of up to US$16 million

Subsequent to the end of the quarter GreenPower completed several transactions to recapitalize the Company. The Company closed on two term loans for a total of $5 million, closed on the new banking relationship with CIBC including a line of credit and Term Loan, paid out the existing bank line of credit, exchanged $7 million of related party loans for convertible debentures and exchanged $3 million of related party loans for Series B Convertible Preferred Shares.

For additional information on the results of operations for the period ended December 31, 2025 with the financial statements and related reports posted on GreenPower’s website as well as on SEDAR Plus or on EDGAR.

About GreenPower Motor Company Inc.
GreenPower designs, builds and distributes a full suite of high-floor and low-floor all-electric medium and heavy-duty vehicles, including transit buses, school buses, shuttles, cargo van and a cab and chassis. GreenPower employs a clean-sheet design to manufacture all-electric vehicles that are purpose built to be battery powered with zero emissions while integrating global suppliers for key components. This OEM platform allows GreenPower to meet the specifications of various operators while providing standard parts for ease of maintenance and accessibility for warranty requirements. For further information go to www.greenpowermotor.com

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Heliox, A Siemens Business, a leader in EV charging solutions, is proud to highlight its VersiCharge Blue 80A, engineered for the most demanding fleet and commercial vehicle charging environments. Designed to deliver up to 80A AC (19.2 kW) power output, the VersiCharge Blue 80A ensures that fleet operators can keep vehicles moving efficiently and reduce operational downtime. With Level 2 charging capability via a J1772 connector and a 24-foot cable, this solution is compatible with most standard EVs, E-Trucks and School Buses, and streamlines installation and daily operation for maximum flexibility and reach.

This charger exemplifies robust quality, featuring Buy America compliance to meet government procurement requirements and ENERGY STAR certification to support lower operational costs and high energy efficiency. Safety remains paramount, as the VersiCharge Blue 80A holds multiple UL listings and carries a NEMA 4 and IK10 rating to ensure exceptional resilience against extreme temperatures, humidity, and physical impact. Backed by a 3-year warranty, customers gain peace of mind knowing their investment is safeguarded for the long haul.

Connectivity is central to the VersiCharge Blue 80A’s design, with cellular and Wi-Fi networking providing easy remote monitoring and flexible network-sharing in commercial deployments. Site safety and aesthetics are prioritized thanks to retractable cable management, reducing trip hazards and maintaining a clean, professional appearance. State-of-the-art smart charging features, including ISO15118-2 hardware readiness and OCPP 1.6J support, enable advanced load management, authentication, security, and future compatibility, while Sifinity Setup mobile app configuration simplifies multi-charger installations.

Precise energy tracking is guaranteed by embedded metering, helping operators optimize usage and manage costs. Built for resilient operation, the unit withstands wide temperature swings from -40°C to 50°C (>50°C with derating) and functions reliably in up to 98% humidity, making it ideal for harsh climates and challenging locations. Wall or post mounting options offer flexible installation for any site layout, and over-the-air (OTA) software upgrades future-proof investments by delivering remote updates and new capabilities.

Engineered for versatility, VersiCharge Blue 80A features rated current settings from 12A to 80A to easily accommodate varying power needs across fleet and facility applications. Its recommended wire cross section of 3 AWG with a 90°C minimum ensures safe, high-capacity wiring and consistent performance even under heavy usage. Built-in ground fault and overvoltage protection shield both users and vehicles against electrical risks, while multicolor LED indicators provide instant feedback on charging status, connectivity, and fault diagnostics to streamline site management.

Advanced OCPP and ISO15118-2 user authentication deliver enterprise-grade security and fleet management capability. The charger operates at altitudes up to 6,562 feet, expanding site possibilities in high-elevation regions, and customizable mounting options ensure seamless integration in diverse venues.

With VersiCharge Blue 80A, Heliox, A Siemens Business, is bringing a powerful blend of reliability, safety, and intelligent connectivity to the heart of fleet and commercial EV operations, enabling customers to scale with confidence as electrification demands grow.

About Heliox, A Siemens Business
Heliox, A Siemens Business, delivers world class EV charging equipment, EV charger maintenance and support services, and robust solutions for a broad range of EV fleets. Our portfolio encompasses all aspects of smart and efficient AC and DC charging infrastructure, including IoT-connected hardware, software, and a comprehensive service offering. Heliox manufactures UL compliant products that meet Buy America Act (BAA) and Build America Buy America (BABA) standards. Heliox’s high-quality, field-proven charging products are now backed by Siemens’ financial strength, global reach, and long-term stability—delivering the best of both worlds.

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Hydroelectric energy is the “backbone of clean power,” but an urgent need to improve efficiencies is driving engineers to explore a whirlwind of options Among alternative energy solutions, wind, solar, and hydrogen capture the majority of attention. Yet the combined output from these sources pales in comparison to that of hydroelectric power. Producing more than …

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There are many benefits to entering the world of EV ownership. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle and are considering switching from gas-powered to electric, you’re probably wondering about the cost differences and how they’ll affect you long term. If you’re ready to shop the different used cars for sale, we have plenty of electric cars for sale in Madison, WI, at our dealership: cars that will save you money long-term.

The Tax Benefits

Unlike gas-powered vehicles, electric vehicles qualify owners for a significant tax credit. Most popular electric vehicle models qualify for this incentive, and the total tax credit ultimately depends on the vehicle’s battery size. Drivers who choose hybrid models will receive a lower tax credit than those who choose fully electric vehicles, in which case you can expect several thousand dollars in federal incentives.

Fuel Savings

Buying an electric vehicle means you’ll no longer have to plan regular trips to the gas station, search for the cheapest or least crowded station, and fight over pumps when the prices rise or there’s yet another gas shortage. You’ll save thousands of dollars yearly in fuel costs because you won’t have to rely on gas to power your vehicle.

Plus, you can take advantage of the many free public charging stations at restaurants, universities, gas stations, and other locations all over the country. Whether driving around your local area or heading out on a road trip, you can search for free charging stations online with an interactive map that will give you links to locations throughout the country.

You’ll Save Money on Vehicle Maintenance

Because electric vehicles require fewer parts than traditional vehicles, the maintenance costs are far cheaper than gas-powered vehicles. Drivers who choose electric vehicles may spend 40% less on maintenance costs than those who own gas-powered vehicles.

Shopping for Used Cars for Sale? Consider an EV

If you’re in the market for a pre-owned vehicle, you can’t go wrong with an electric option. In the long run, you’ll benefit from tax incentives, save money on fuel and maintenance, and help the environment.

At Zimbrick Automotive, we have electric vehicles that can meet the needs of drivers with all different lifestyles and budgets. Whether you’re looking for an economical or luxury vehicle, we have plenty of options. The most popular automotive brands, like BMW, Porsche, Audi, GMC, Chevrolet, Mercedes-Benz, and more, have designed some incredible electric options, and we carry them here at our dealership.

If you want to enter the electric vehicle world, our expert team can help you choose the right option at the right price. Visit us today at Zimbrick Automotive to browse our new and pre-owned electric vehicle inventory, learn more about the advantages of driving an EV, and test drive your favorite model.

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