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Powering the Future: An Electric School Bus Transition

Last Updated: January 18, 2024 | E-mobility

Here’s an inspiring story that exemplifies the transformative power of electric vehicles (EVs) in unexpected places – with electric school buses! Logan-Magnolia, a school district in Iowa, embraced the electric transportation revolution and reaped remarkable benefits. Let’s dive into how they turned skepticism into savings, and how Noodoe supported this effort!

Iowa School District Gets Funding

Logan-Magnolia, with 650 students and six bus routes, faced a challenge: the need to replace aging diesel school buses. Superintendent Tom Ridder was initially skeptical about the seemingly too-good-to-be-true proposition of swapping five diesel buses for electric ones, especially at no cost.
 
But here’s the twist—this wasn’t just a one-off stroke of luck; it was part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s “Clean School Bus Program” funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021. A whopping $5 billion over five years aims to replace dated diesel school buses with eco-friendly alternatives.
 

The Green Deal: Cost Savings and Emission Reduction

Logan-Magnolia qualified for this clean school bus funding program, leading to the decommissioning of five outdated diesel buses. The federal government footed the bill for the electric buses and EV charging stations, while MidAmerican Energy Company completed the necessary electric work.
 
Superintendent Ridder highlighted the district’s dual win: reducing emissions and saving on costs. The new electric bus fleet, though indistinguishable from their diesel counterparts, silently champion a cleaner environment and cost-saving measures. These buses charge at Noodoe DC power stations to be ready for pick up and drop off schedules. 

Smooth Transition and Unexpected Savings

Transportation Director Kurtis Hinkle noted that the transition was smoother than expected, with drivers echoing a seamless driving experience. The drivers return with a 75% charge after their routes, and even hills pose no challenge. Unlike diesel counterparts struggling in the cold, these electric buses snugly rest inside, ready for their next emission-free adventure, thanks to Noodoe and its partners.
 
Superintendent Ridder expressed excitement about being a trendsetter in embracing electric buses. As he rightly puts it, “The reality is that electric buses are here to stay.”

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future

These electric buses and their batteries will service Logan-Magnolia for years, offering flexibility for the district to choose their next eco-friendly solution. In the meantime, the superintendent estimates a substantial $30,000 in fuel cost savings based on last year’s figures.
 
Logan-Magnolia’s journey isn’t just a success story; it’s a testament to the tangible benefits of embracing electric solutions. As electric buses become a fixture on our roads, the ripple effect of cost savings and environmental impact will undoubtedly inspire more communities to follow suit.
 
School districts are making the electric shift. As are apartment and condo complexes, municipal parking lots, hospitality destinations – with expert guidance from the charging team at Noodoe. Put our expertise to work for you.

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Further Reading

  1. 6News WOWT: Iowa school district rolls out electric buses as part of EPA program
  2. Electric School Buses Checklist: Everything you need to know to get started
  3. Noodoe EV OS: The Best Smart EV Fleet Charging Features

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