ART Upgrades Fleet with 15 New Gillig Buses

September 26, 2024

We’re excited to announce that Arlington Transit (ART) has added 15 new Gillig buses to our fleet! These buses feature the latest technology with Cummins L9N engines, making them both powerful and efficient. Gillig is a well-known, family-owned company that has been manufacturing buses since 1890, starting as a carriage and wagon shop. Their buses are celebrated for durability and reliability, with many transit agencies reporting that they outlast their expected lifespan, therefore making them a smart investment for our community.

These new Gillig buses are 35 feet long, providing more space for passengers compared to our old NABIs, which were only 31 feet long. The buses are made in Livermore, California, and travel about 3,000 miles to reach us, showcasing their long journey before they hit our roads. The decision to add these buses now is strategic; we want to be fully prepared for the Battery Electric Buses (BEBs) arriving in the spring. By having 15 Gillig buses, we can compare their performance directly with the BEBs, ensuring we make informed choices about our fleet's future and their readiness for the streets of Arlington.

So far, the integration of the new buses has gone smoothly, with successful inspections and preparations for service. These Gillig buses will not only enhance our system reliability and bus availability but also improve the overall customer experience. As we move toward a greener future, we are eager to see how these new additions will benefit our community and help us better understand our options in the coming future. Stay tuned for more updates on our exciting journey!