NJ TRANSIT continues to accelerate the modernization of its bus fleet with yesterday’s authorization by its Board of Directors to purchase 208 60-foot articulated buses and 20 Battery Electric Buses. These new vehicles will replace outdated 40-foot transit buses currently in use. The longer articulated buses, which bend in the middle, provide capacity for 100 customers, compared to the approximately 50 customers on the buses they are replacing. The Battery Electric Buses advance the goal of transitioning to a 100% zero-emission bus fleet by 2040 in line with Gov. Phil Murphy’s Energy Master Plan. The purchase is part of a broader commitment to replace all outdated buses and trains, fully modernizing the fleet to improve reliability and enhance the customer experience.
“Replacing outdated buses and rail cars across our system is part of our continued commitment to improving service for our customers — and today’s Board action is a meaningful step forward,” said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kris Kolluri. “Governor Murphy’s FY2026 budget continues to prioritize transit, giving NJ TRANSIT the ability to accelerate advancing a modern, more reliable fleet that will better accommodate growing ridership and significantly enhance the customer experience.”
NJ TRANSIT will purchase 208 60-foot articulated buses, including spare parts, and 20 Battery Electric Buses at a cost not to exceed $393,432,390.00, plus 10% for contingencies, subject to the availability of funds. A vendor and contract will be finalized during the procurement process.
The new articulated buses are expected to provide fleet reliability at reduced operating and maintenance costs and will be equipped with the latest technology to significantly reduce vehicle exhaust emissions. The advanced emissions systems in these buses will produce approximately 80% fewer emissions than the buses they replace. In addition, the articulated and Battery Electric Buses will feature low flooring to allow customers to embark and disembark more quickly. All new buses will include new customer amenities such as USB charging ports, security cameras, blind spot cameras and turn warning systems to enhance customer experience and safety.