Current RTD shuttle bus on Denver’s 16th Street mall. DUR spring 2015.

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) Board of Directors announced it has approved the purchase of 36 electric shuttles. These new vehicles will be used for the 16th Street MallRide in downtown Denver. The 45-foot shuttles are 100 percent electric powered and will have a 12-year lifespan that will equate to $100,000 in savings over that time according to RTD.

“The current shuttles have been in operation for over fourteen years and it is time to replace our aging fleet to continue providing high-quality service to our riders,” said RTD Interim General Manager and CEO Dave Genova. “The new shuttles will provide the most advanced and clean-energy technology to help the environment while meeting the unique needs of vehicle operation on the busy 16th Street Mall.”

The cost of 36 electric vehicles will not exceed $27.1 million and are being manufactured by BYD Motors Inc. in China. Assembly of the shuttles will take place in California.

Design feature have been incorporated into the shuttles specifically to meet the needs of the 16th Street MallRide. Wide doors will be incorporated into the vehicles for easy boarding and exit of passengers. Low floors will also be included for a smooth transition on and off the shuttles. This fleet of vehicles will also have air conditioning for Denver’s hot summer days.