Podcast focused on the Transition to Zero Emission in Transit
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June 16, 2026Episode 5437 min
Electric and Fuel Cell Buses: Maintenance and Workforce Challenges from VVTA
summary In this episode, Dustin Strandberg from Victor Valley Transit shares insights on transitioning to zero-emission transit vehicles, maintenance challenges, workforce development, and operational impacts of electric and fuel cell buses. keywords Transit, Electric Buses, Fuel Cell, Maintenance, Workforce Development, Zero Emission Vehicles, CNG, Battery Electric, Hydrogen Fuel Cells, Transit Technology key topics Transition to zero-emission transit vehicles Maintenance challenges and solutions for electric and fuel cell buses Workforce training and development for new transit technologies guest name Dustin Strandberg sound bites "Range exceeded my expectations at first" "Battery uptime dropped to around 40%" "Cold weather causes a 40% range loss" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Victor Valley Transit and Its Operations 02:48 Transitioning to Zero Emission Technologies 05:31 Challenges and Surprises in Battery Electric Bus Operations 08:05 Impact of Environmental Conditions on Bus Performance 10:41 Maintenance and Cost Analysis of Zero Emission Buses 13:30 Training and Workforce Development for New Technologies 16:01 The Future of Transit Careers and Community Involvement resources Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA) - https://vvta.org/ New Flyer Electric Buses - https://www.newflyer.com/ Southern California Edison - Charge Ready Program - https://www.sce.com/ California Transit Training Center (CTTC) - https://www.cttc.com/ guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustin-strandberg-123456789/
June 2, 202633 min
CUTRIC: Canada's ZEB Market
In this episode, Jess Smith from CUTRIC shares insights on Canada's transition to zero-emission transit, including hydrogen projects, battery electric buses, funding strategies, and technological innovations shaping the future of sustainable transit. keywords Zero Emission Transit, Hydrogen Fuel Cells, Battery Electric Buses, Transit Funding, Sustainable Transportation, Canada Transit Innovation key topics Hydrogen projects and their regional deployment in Canada Advancements in battery electric bus technology and range improvements Funding strategies and government support for zero emission transit The role of software, data analytics, and predictive tools in fleet management Challenges and opportunities in hydrogen fuel cell adoption guest name Jess Smith Titles Canada's Zero Emission Transit Revolution: Insights from CUTRIC Hydrogen and Battery Electric Buses: The Future of Canadian Transit sound bites "No technology is a clear winner in decarbonizing fleets." "Plans must evolve with technological advancements." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to CUTRIC and Jess Smith's Role 00:49 CUTRIC's Mission and Canada's Zero Emission Goals 01:43 Current Developments in Canadian Transit Technologies 02:58 Hydrogen Projects and Regional Deployment in Canada 03:47 Cost of Hydrogen and Market Dynamics 04:37 Adoption Trends: Battery Electric vs Hydrogen Fuel Cells 05:30 Canadian Government Targets and Progress 06:42 Strategies for Charging Infrastructure and Standardization 07:22 Innovations in Data Analytics and Software Tools 08:18 Future Trends: Autonomous Shuttles and Smart Transit Systems 09:19 Funding Strategies and the Role of Federal and Provincial Support 10:05 Overcoming Planning Gaps and Utility Coordination 11:12 Lessons Learned and Best Practices for Transit Agencies 12:04 The Impact of Funding and Policy on Transition Speed 12:58 Collaborative Procurement and Supporting Smaller Agencies 13:57 Charging Infrastructure Challenges and Solutions 15:00 Hydrogen Production, Costs, and Market Outlook 15:36 Operational Challenges in Cold Weather Conditions 16:50 Planning for Future Technologies and Market Shifts 17:22 The Importance of Early Planning and Flexibility 18:43 Emerging Technologies: Inductive Charging and Autonomous Vehicles 19:15 The Role of Data and Software in Fleet Optimization 20:22 The Critical Role of Funding and Policy Support 21:21 Addressing Gaps in Utility Coordination and Infrastructure 22:05 Lessons from Canada for U.S. Transit Agencies 22:57 The Future of Zero Emission Transit: Trends and Predictions 23:46 Advice for Transit Leaders Considering Electrification 24:50 Innovations in Data Analytics and Smart Transit Systems 25:39 The Next Five Years: Technologies and Market Evolution 26:38 Final Message: Early Planning and Flexibility 27:40 Jess Smith's Key Message to Transit Agencies resources CUTRIC Official Website - https://CUTRIC.ca/ Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Overview - https://www.energy.gov/eere/fuelcells/hydrogen-fuel-cells Canadian Zero Emission Transit Funding Programs - https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/climate-change/zero-emission-transit.html guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-smith/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/jesssmith
May 19, 2026Episode 334 min
Autel and Electrification of Transit
Keywords EV charging, Autel Energy, market landscape, reliability, data management, regulatory compliance, government programs, communication, charging technology, industry maturity Summary In this episode of Transition to Zero, host Jerge Schneider speaks with Dario Pagani from Autel Energy about the evolving landscape of EV charging technology. They discuss the reliability of chargers, the importance of data management for fleet optimization, and the challenges posed by regulatory compliance. The conversation also highlights the role of government programs in infrastructure development and the need for improved communication and collaboration within the industry. Looking ahead, they explore the future of charging technology and the lessons learned from past experiences in the market. Takeaways The EV charging market is stabilizing after a period of intense competition. Reliability and diagnostics are crucial for long-term investment in charging infrastructure. Data management is essential for optimizing fleet operations and reducing costs. BABA compliance for chargers increases costs but ensures local manufacturing. Government programs can provide necessary support and structure for industry growth. Effective communication among stakeholders is vital for successful project execution. 2026 is anticipated to be a pivotal year for deploying existing charging technologies. The industry is maturing, with a focus on proven solutions rather than constant innovation. Lessons learned from past failures are shaping a more confident market. Investing in the EV industry is seen as a revolutionary opportunity. sound bites "We're getting past the race to the bottom." "Reliability is key for long-term investment." "BABA compliance increases costs significantly." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Autel Energy and EV Charging 02:48 Market Landscape and Business Models 05:46 Ensuring Charger Reliability and Maintenance 08:12 Regulatory Compliance: Buy America and Its Implications 11:17 Government's Role in Industry Development 14:02 Infrastructure Challenges and Solutions 16:34 Communication and Collaboration in Electrification 19:35 Lessons Learned and Future Considerations 22:06 The Future of Charging Technology and Deployment
April 28, 2026Episode 5128 min
Zeroing in on ZEBs Report: 2026
Summary This episode features insights from CalSTART experts on the latest trends in zero emission bus adoption across the US, highlighting growth, regional spread, and industry maturity. keywords Zero Emission Buses, ZEBs, Transit Industry, Fleet Transition, Data Ecosystem, Technology Adoption, Workforce Development, Industry Trends key topics Growth in zero emission bus deployment despite industry challenges Nationwide adoption across 48 states, including smaller agencies Transition planning and technology maturity in transit fleets guest name Mike Hynes and Kaila Ketelsen Titles Zeroing in on ZEBs: 2023 Adoption Trends and Insights How US Transit Agencies Are Accelerating Zero Emission Bus Deployment sound bites "48 out of 50 states now have deployments." "Fuel cell growth has increased from 45% to 55%." "Leaning on industry collaboration is key." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Zeroing in on ZEBs Report 00:48 What is the Zeroing in on ZEBs Report? 01:41 Key Findings from the 2023 Report 02:15 Regional and Nationwide Adoption Trends 03:48 Growth Despite Industry Headwinds 04:17 Distribution of Zero Emission Buses Across the US 05:43 Evolving Data Ecosystem at CalSTART 08:27 Challenges of Data Centralization and Validation 10:58 Battery Electric vs Hydrogen Fuel Cells 12:55 Trends in Fleet Transition Planning 15:34 Insights for Transit Agencies from Data Analysis 16:58 Workforce Development and Industry Models 18:45 Generation Zero Event and Peer Exchange 20:41 Surprising Trends in Adoption by Region 22:13 Lessons for Transit Agencies Moving Forward resources CalSTART Zeroing in on ZEBs Report 2023 - https://calstart.org/reports/zeroing-in-on-zebs-2023 Generation Zero Event by CalSTART and CARB - https://calstart.org/events/generation-zero Neoride - Industry Collaboration Model - https://neoride.com/ California Air Resources Board (CARB) - https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/ guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/mikehynes LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/kailaketelsen
April 14, 2026Episode 5035 min
Workforce Development in Transit: Clean Technology Training Trust
Keywords Clean Technology, Workforce Development, Zero Emission, Apprenticeships, Training, Clean Transportation, Policy, Future Workforce, Technology Integration, Employee Retention Summary In this episode of Transition to Zero, host Jared Schnader speaks with Dr. Kimberly Moore, National Director of the Clean Technology Training Trust, about the critical role of workforce development in achieving zero-emission goals in transportation. They discuss the importance of aligning workforce training with technological advancements, the challenges faced in workforce readiness, and the need for policies that support sustained investment in training. Dr. Moore emphasizes the significance of apprenticeships and customized training solutions to prepare the next generation for emerging roles in clean technology. The conversation also touches on the integration of technology in training and the evolving expectations of the workforce. Takeaways The Clean Technology Training Trust addresses workforce gaps in clean transportation. Workforce readiness is essential for the successful deployment of zero-emission technologies. Organizations must plan for workforce development alongside technology investments. Safety and skills training are critical in the transition to new technologies. Apprenticeships provide a pathway to the middle class without student debt. Policies must support sustained workforce investment for long-term success. Customization in training programs is necessary to meet specific organizational needs. The future workforce will require hybrid roles that combine various skill sets. Retention of employees is linked to ongoing training and development opportunities. The next generation values purpose and career pathways over traditional college routes. Titles Bridging the Gap: Workforce Development in Clean Tech The Future of Clean Transportation: Workforce Readiness sound bites "Workforce readiness is really core." "You have to build that workforce too." "You want to know that they see you." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Clean Technology Training Trust 02:43 The Importance of Workforce Development in Clean Transportation 05:34 Challenges in Workforce Readiness 08:44 The Role of Policy in Workforce Training 11:32 Apprenticeships and Long-Term Workforce Success 14:21 Creating Scalable Workforce Solutions 17:06 The Future of Workforce Training with Technology 19:48 Emerging Roles and Competencies for the Next Generation 22:52 Retention and Employee Fulfillment 25:52 The Pathways to Success for Future Generations
December 18, 202533 min
Electreon: Perpetual Motion through Dynamic Charging
Episode Summary In this episode of Transition to Zero, host Jared Schnader sits down with Stefan Tongur of Electreon to explore how wireless charging is reshaping the future of electric transportation. The conversation revisits Electreon's core breakthrough—wireless charging embedded directly into roadways—and explains how charging can occur not only when vehicles are parked, but also while they are in motion. This approach directly addresses persistent barriers to EV adoption, including range anxiety, long charging times, grid constraints, and the high cost of oversized batteries. Stefan shares updates on Electreon's progress since their last appearance, highlighting the shift from technology validation to real-world commercialization. Key pilot projects in Michigan and Utah demonstrate over 99% reliability, successful energy transfer at scale, and growing collaboration with state DOTs, universities, utilities, and industry partners. These projects prove that electric roads can be deployed within existing permitting and construction processes, making them viable for U.S. infrastructure. A major focus of the discussion is the business case for wireless charging roads. By turning existing roadways into revenue-generating assets, states and municipalities can potentially offset declining gas-tax revenues while reducing the need for massive charging depots and land-intensive megawatt chargers. International examples—particularly in France—show how toll-road operators can use electric roads to support heavy-duty trucks, reduce required charging space, and enable smaller, lower-cost vehicle batteries. The episode also dives into the UCLA wireless charging project, a flagship U.S. deployment that brings together transit buses, multiple regional transit agencies, and future applications such as autonomous vehicles and shared mobility. By treating charging infrastructure as a shared platform rather than isolated assets, the UCLA project illustrates how wireless charging can unlock longer vehicle uptime, lower total cost of ownership, and more resilient grid operations—offering a glimpse of what scalable, seamless electrification could look like nationwide. Key Takeaways Wireless charging can occur while vehicles are parked or in motion, eliminating downtime and range anxiety. Pilot projects in Michigan and Utah demonstrate high reliability and real-world feasibility within existing road construction processes. Electric roads can become revenue-generating infrastructure, helping replace gas-tax income and reduce land use for charging depots. International deployments, especially in France, show strong potential for heavy-duty trucking and toll-road business models. The UCLA project serves as a living lab for shared charging infrastructure across multiple transit agencies and future autonomous fleets. Wireless charging enables smaller batteries, lower vehicle costs, and higher fleet utilization, benefiting operators, utilities, and communities. Links & Resources Electreon – Wireless charging for electric vehicles: https://www.electreon.com CALSTART – National nonprofit focused on transportation decarbonization: https://calstart.org Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) – Partner on electric road pilot projects: https://www.michigan.gov/mdot Utah Inland Port & Utah State University – Partners on dynamic wireless charging pilots: https://inlandportauthority.utah.gov | https://www.usu.edu SAE International – J2954/3 Wireless Power Transfer Standard: https://www.sae.org UCLA Transportation Services – Transit and sustainability initiatives: https://transportation.ucla.edu VINCI Autoroutes (France) – Toll-road operator involved in electric road pilots: https://www.vinci-autoroutes.com Podcast: Transition to Zero Guest: Stefan Tongur, Electreon Host: Jared Schnader
December 2, 202533 min
A-Z of Buses with John Landherr
Keywords Electric Vehicles, EV, Total Cost of Ownership, Reliability, Emissions Requirements, Paradigm Shift Summary The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of electric vehicles (EVs), focusing on the anticipated shift in perception regarding their total cost of ownership and reliability. With upcoming emissions requirements set for 2027, there is a growing belief that EVs will become more appealing to consumers as they recognize the potential savings and reliability advantages over traditional diesel vehicles. The discussion highlights a significant paradigm shift in the automotive industry, emphasizing the importance of these factors in the decision-making process for future vehicle purchases. Takeaways People will start thinking about EVs more and more. Total cost of ownership will favor EVs in the near future. Reliability of EVs is becoming a key consideration. 2027 emissions requirements will drive change in the market. A paradigm shift towards EVs is imminent. Incentives for EVs are just the beginning of the transition. Next three to five years are crucial for EV adoption. EVs can offer savings compared to traditional vehicles. The inflection point for EVs is approaching rapidly. Consumers will prioritize TCO and reliability in their choices. Titles The Future of Electric Vehicles: A Paradigm Shift Understanding the Total Cost of Ownership in EVs Sound bites "It's only getting better for EVs." "A big paradigm shift is coming." "Incentives for EVs are just the beginning." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to A to Z Bus Sales
November 11, 202522 min
Funding Infrastructure
🎧 Episode Title: Energizing Transit: Inside CalSTART's Infrastructure Funding Program Host: Jared Schnader Guest: Ian Cadger, Clean Fuels & Infrastructure Team, CALSTART Episode Summary In this episode of Transition to Zero, host Jared Schnader sits down with Ian Cadger from CALSTART's Clean Fuels & Infrastructure (CF&I) team to unpack the groundbreaking EnergIIZE Commercial Vehicles Project — a first-of-its-kind funding program accelerating zero-emission vehicle infrastructure in California. While Jared leads CALSTART's Bus Team, Ian's work in clean fuels and infrastructure focuses on building the backbone that enables electric and hydrogen transit fleets to thrive. Ian explains how EnergIIZE supports fleet and transit agencies with funding for chargers, hydrogen dispensers, and supporting equipment, along with software, maintenance, and warranty costs. The conversation dives deep into how the program operates — from early-stage planning and applications to data reporting and long-term uptime requirements. Jared and Ian also discuss how EnergIIZE coordinates with utilities, CalFleet Advisors, and vehicle voucher programs like HVIP to make infrastructure projects viable and scalable. The two explore the evolution of the program's incentive structure, which now rewards greater charger capacity and encourages ambitious buildouts. Ian provides insights into how EnergIIZE has become a national model for other states developing similar initiatives — emphasizing lessons learned in streamlining applications, ensuring utility coordination, and promoting equity in infrastructure deployment. Finally, Ian offers a look at what's next for EnergIIZE, including the launch of a megawatt charging system funding lane targeting drayage fleets, continued data collection efforts, and opportunities for agencies to stay connected through CalSTART's funding updates. 🔑 Key Takeaways EnergIIZE funds both EV and hydrogen fueling infrastructure, including equipment, software, maintenance, and warranties. Transit agencies can apply through the Transit Set-Aside or Fast Track Lane, depending on project readiness. The program requires coordination with local utilities and includes five years of data reporting on charger usage and uptime. CalFleet Advisors helps agencies assess needs, site capacity, and charger requirements before applying. The EnergIIZE Impact Map tracks awards and deployment progress across California. A new incentive structure encourages higher-capacity charging projects rather than fixed grant amounts. The program has spurred growing national interest, inspiring similar models outside California. Upcoming: a $10 million Megawatt Charging System lane focused on drayage industry electrification. 🔗 Resources & Links 🌐 EnergIIZE Commercial Vehicles Program (note the double "ii") 📊 EnergIIZE Impact Map – Funding & Deployment Data 🚌 CalSTART – advancing clean transportation technologies 🤝 CalFleet Advisors – fleet support for zero-emission transitions 📬 Sign up for EnergIIZE Funding Announcements on the EnergIIZE website
October 14, 202532 min
Model1 on the Evolving Cutaway Market
Summary In this episode of Transition to Zero, Jared Schnader and Steve Chung explore the journey of Model One, focusing on the transition to zero-emission vehicles. They discuss the El Arca study, which highlights significant fuel savings and improved customer satisfaction, and delve into the broader impact of electric transportation on communities and the environment. Keywords El Arca study, fuel savings, customer satisfaction, zero-emission vehicles, electric transportation, Model One, California regulations, infrastructure, maintenance costs, electric buses Takeaways Model One is the largest bus dealer in the country, focusing on zero-emission vehicles. California's clean air regulations influence nationwide standards. El Arca saves up to $30,000 monthly on fuel with electric vehicles. Electric vehicles offer a quieter, more pleasant ride for passengers. Customer satisfaction is enhanced by the quieter, smoother ride of electric vehicles. Model One partners with major manufacturers like Ford for reliable zero-emission solutions. The transition to zero-emission vehicles involves significant infrastructure considerations. Electric vehicles reduce maintenance costs and eliminate the need for oil changes. Model One provides comprehensive support from sales to service. The market is evolving with advancements in battery technology and electric vehicle infrastructure. Title Options Revolutionizing Transit: The El Arca Study Fuel Savings & Satisfaction: The Electric Advantage Model One's Journey to Zero Emissions Electric Vehicles: A Quieter, Greener Future The Impact of Zero-Emission Buses on Communities How El Arca Achieved $30K Monthly Fuel Savings Customer Satisfaction in the Age of Electric Transit Model One's Role in the Zero-Emission Revolution The Future of Transportation: Electric Buses From Gas to Electric: A New Era in Transit Sound bites El Arca saves $30,000 monthly Quieter rides enhance satisfaction Electric vehicles cut maintenance costs Zero emissions, zero compromises A smoother ride for all Leading the charge in transit Fuel savings drive change Customer satisfaction soars Electric is the future Model One's electric evolution
October 7, 202537 min
Forest River Talks the Cutaway Market
Title: Transition to Zero: Exploring the Future of Transit with Forest River Episode Description: Join host Jared Schnader as he delves into the world of advanced transit technologies with Doug Wright, President of Forest River's Bus and Marine Division. Discover insights into the evolving market of cutaway buses, the impact of COVID-19 on the industry, and the future of electric vehicles in transit. Key Topics: Introduction to Forest River: Doug Wright provides a comprehensive overview of Forest River's diverse divisions, from RVs to marine and bus manufacturing. Market Dynamics: Explore the shifts in the cutaway bus market pre- and post-COVID, including the rise of vans and the challenges of maintaining market share. Innovation and Responsibility: Learn about Forest River's commitment to building reliable buses for operators and mechanics, emphasizing the importance of stability, support, simplicity, and value. Electric Vehicle Transition: Doug discusses the gradual shift towards electric vehicles, the role of hybrids, and the importance of infrastructure and total cost of ownership. Customization Challenges: The episode addresses the complexities of over-customization in bus manufacturing and the benefits of standardization for efficiency and quality. Future Innovations: Doug shares insights into potential innovations in materials and technology that could enhance the safety and reliability of buses. Notable Quotes: "We have a tremendous responsibility to make sure that our buses are not only built really well, but when they do break down, they're back on the road quickly." "The look of the vehicle isn't what should be most important to the end user; it's everything else that continues to get better." Conclusion: Doug Wright emphasizes the importance of innovation, responsibility, and collaboration in shaping the future of transit. As the largest cutaway bus manufacturer, Forest River is poised to lead the industry with reliable and advanced solutions. Hashtags: #TransitInnovation #ElectricVehicles #ForestRiver #SustainableTransport Call to Action: Subscribe now to stay updated on the latest in transit technology and innovation.
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