Pasadena Sets Ambitious Goal to Transition 46% of Transit Fleet to Zero-Emission by 2028

Strategic Insights -

Pasadena has taken a significant step towards a cleaner and greener future by authorizing the purchase of 17 fuel cell electric buses, fueled with hydrogen, for its transit fleet. This move marks the first zero-emission multivehicle public transit order for the City, with the new electric buses expected to enter service in spring 2027. The transition is part of a broader plan to reduce emissions and promote sustainability in public transportation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The City of Pasadena has received council authorization to purchase 17 fuel cell electric buses, fueled with hydrogen, for the Pasadena Transit fleet.
  • These new electric buses are expected to go into service in spring 2027, marking the first zero-emission multivehicle public transit order for the City.
  • The transition is part of a broader plan to reduce emissions and promote sustainability in public transportation, with the goal of transitioning 46% of the Pasadena Transit fleet to zero-emission by 2028.
  • In January 2023, Pasadena City Council adopted the Zero Emission Bus Rollout Plan, outlining the City's transition to zero-emission technology.
  • The Pasadena Transit fleet already runs on low-emission renewable natural gas, but the City is expanding its efforts with the introduction of battery-electric buses and hydrogen fueling facilities.
  • The City has secured over $100 million in grant funding towards zero-emission infrastructure and vehicles, at a total project cost of $150.7 million.
  • The overall project includes vehicle purchases, the construction of a new Transit Operations and Maintenance Facility and a Hydrogen Fueling Facility.
  • Pasadena DOT director Joaquin Siques attributes the success of the zero-emission vehicle transition to the hard work of City staff over the last two years.

Statistics:

  • 17: Number of fuel cell electric buses to be purchased for the Pasadena Transit fleet.
  • 46%: Proportion of the Pasadena Transit fleet expected to be zero-emission by 2028.
  • $100 million: Amount of grant funding secured for zero-emission infrastructure and vehicles.
  • $150.7 million: Total project cost for the zero-emission vehicle transition.
  • 2027: Expected service entry date for the new electric buses.
  • 2028: Target year for transitioning 46% of the Pasadena Transit fleet to zero-emission.

Sources:

  • [Press release from the City of Pasadena, released August 25, 2025]
  • [Pasadena City Council meeting, January 2023]