$1.7 Billion Budget For Electric Buses Handed Out By Biden Administration Despite Susceptibility Of Catching Fire

The Biden administration recently announced the allocation of nearly $1.7 billion to purchase electric and low-emission buses across 46 states and territories, despite concerns about their susceptibility to catching fire, Daily Caller reported.

$1.7 Billion Budget For Electric Buses Handed Out By Biden Administration Despite Susceptibility Of Catching Fire (PHOTO: Los Angeles Times)

$1.7 Billion Budget For Electric Buses Handed Out By Biden Administration

This funding is part of the federal government’s efforts to promote the electrification of buses and achieve President Joe Biden‘s goal of net-zero carbon emissions in the American economy by 2050.

However, there have been instances of electric buses catching fire in cities like Wichita, Kansas; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Hamden, Connecticut, due to battery malfunctions. These incidents have raised safety concerns and led to partial recalls of electric buses.

Critics of electric vehicles and buses have also pointed out other issues, including the carbon-intensive battery production process, limited range, and efficiency compared to traditional vehicles. The lithium-ion batteries used in electric buses have raised concerns about their safety and potential risks.

Despite these concerns, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg commended the administration’s support for electric buses, highlighting the unprecedented levels of investment in cleaner buses.

The funding will allow state and local governments to acquire more than 1,100 fully electric buses, furthering the transition to a greener transportation system.

The announced funding includes significant amounts for transit agencies in New York and Los Angeles, with the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority receiving approximately $116 million and the Los Angeles municipal transportation service receiving $104.1 million for electric bus procurement.

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Budget For Electric Buses

It’s worth noting that Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm previously held a board seat in Proterra, one of the nation’s largest electric bus manufacturers. Although she sold her shares in the company after joining the Biden administration, this connection has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest.

While the Environmental Protection Agency asserts that concerns about electric vehicle safety are myths, it is essential to address the legitimate concerns surrounding the safety, reliability, and overall performance of electric buses to ensure the successful transition to a cleaner and more sustainable transportation system.

Continued investment in research, development, and safety standards will be crucial in mitigating these concerns and building public confidence in electric buses as a viable alternative.

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