Location: Billings, MT

Fleet type: Electric Transit Buses

 

Narrative

Billings Metropolitan Transit (MET) is actively advancing its transition to zero-emission transportation through the deployment of battery-electric buses and supporting infrastructure. During a recent site visit, MET showcased four newly acquired electric buses, each equipped with approximately 700 kWh battery capacity and an estimated range of up to 350 miles—positioning them well for full-day transit operations in a regional service environment.

These buses were procured through a $3.8 million award from the Federal Transit Administration’s Low-No Emission Bus Program. This funding not only supported vehicle acquisition but also enabled the installation of four DC fast chargers (DCFC) at MET’s operations facility (pictured below), as well as workforce training to ensure a smooth transition to electric operations.

MET plans to store and charge its electric buses outdoors, reflecting a practical and cost-conscious approach to infrastructure deployment that aligns with local climate conditions and operational needs. The agency is integrating these buses into its broader fleet of approximately 40 vehicles, which includes both fixed-route and paratransit services.

In addition to transit electrification, MET leadership expressed interest in expanding zero-emission adoption into light-duty applications. Notably, there is growing curiosity around electric pickup trucks such as the Ford F-150 Lightning for maintenance and operational support roles, signaling a broader fleet electrification strategy beyond buses.

Overall, MET’s efforts represent a meaningful step toward reducing emissions, modernizing transit service, and aligning with city and state sustainability goals.

 

Outputs & Outcomes

Outputs

  • Deployment of four battery-electric buses with high-capacity (700 kWh) batteries
  • Installation of four DC fast charging stations at the MET facility
  • Integration planning for electric buses within a 40-vehicle transit fleet
  • Staff training supported through federal Low-No Program funding
  • Exploration of electric light-duty fleet options, including pickup trucks

Outcomes

  • Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and diesel fuel use from transit operations
  • Increased operational readiness for zero-emission fleet expansion
  • Enhanced rider experience through quieter, cleaner buses
  • Strengthened institutional knowledge of electric vehicle operations and maintenance
  • Momentum toward broader fleet electrification across vehicle classes

 

Best Practices & Lessons Learned

MET’s experience demonstrates how small-to-mid-sized transit agencies can successfully begin fleet electrification with targeted federal funding and scalable infrastructure investments. By pairing vehicle procurement with charging deployment and workforce training, MET is building a strong foundation for long-term success. Key lessons include:

  • Federal programs like the FTA Low-No Bus Program are critical enablers for early-stage electrification
  • High-capacity batteries can effectively meet range requirements even in regional transit systems
  • Outdoor bus storage and charging can be a viable, lower-cost infrastructure strategy
  • Early hands-on experience with electric buses accelerates organizational learning and confidence
  • Expanding electrification beyond transit buses (e.g., into light-duty vehicles) can amplify impact and operational benefits

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Billings Metro Transit Fleet Story

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