IDEAS: Amtrak Introduces First Electric Vehicle Into National Network

Key Points

• Amtrak's first electric vehicle will operate on the Amtrak Cascades route, saving 10,000 gallons of diesel annually.
• The electric bus will reduce CO2 emissions by 109 tons each year and is part of Amtrak's net zero by 2045 plan.
• A sustainable charging hub for the bus was built on land formerly used for fuel storage, emphasizing environmental considerations.

Summary

Amtrak, in partnership with the Washington Department of Transportation, is introducing its first electric vehicle on the Amtrak Cascades route. The electric bus, which can complete a 200-mile round trip on a single charge, is expected to save 10,000 gallons of diesel annually and cut CO2 emissions by 109 tons each year. This initiative supports Amtrak's goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2045, with plans to explore additional routes for electric vehicle integration.