Transition to Zero

Hosted by Jared Schnader

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Oct 2026

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Podcast focused on the Transition to Zero Emission in Transit

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October 27, 2026Episode 6033 min

Rethinking Transit Adoption, Open-Loop Payments, and Equity with Dr. Susie Pike

Episode 60: Rethinking Transit Adoption, Open-Loop Payments, and Equity with Dr. Susie Pike Episode Overview In this episode of Transition to Zero , host Jared Schnader is joined by Dr. Susie Pike, Director of the UC Davis Transit Research Center at the Institute of Transportation Studies . Together, they explore how academic research directly informs public transit operations, travel behavior post-COVID, and the strategic integration of microtransit and micromobility options . Dr. Pike provides a deep dive into the implementation of open-loop payment systems —highlighting how digital payment tools and state-level vendor frameworks like the California Integrated Travel Program (CalITP) can enhance transit equity and streamline zero-emission fleet adoption . They also tackle the crucial policy debates surrounding capital versus operational transit funding and the value of peer-to-peer knowledge sharing across the industry . Key Takeaways & Discussion Highlights Bridging Academia and Transit Operations: How the UC Institute of Transportation Studies partners with state policymakers and agencies to translate research into real-world transit solutions . Shift in Travel Behavior: Moving beyond traditional peak-hour commute models to serve non-work "care trips" (e.g., household errands, grocery shopping, school runs) with consistent, reliable, and high-frequency service . Right-Sizing Transit Solutions: Balancing high-density fixed-route transit with flexible on-demand microtransit and first/last-mile micromobility (e.g., bike-share, scooter-share, pedestrian infrastructure) . Open-Loop Payments & Equity: How contactless tap-to-pay systems, EBT cards, and digital wallet options reduce friction for riders—including unbanked individuals—without requiring a traditional bank account or smartphone . State Frameworks for Zero-Emission Fleets: Applying Master Service Agreement models (similar to CalITP) to help transit agencies lower administrative burdens and costs when procuring electric or hydrogen fuel cell buses . Funding Challenges: Addressing the structural gap between capital investment grants (purchasing vehicles) and operational funding (paying drivers and running daily routes) . Timestamps 00:01 – Introduction to Dr. Susie Pike & UC Davis Transit Research Center 02:57 – Bridging the Gap Between Academic Research and Daily Transit Operations 06:58 – Post-COVID Travel Patterns: Care Trips and High-Frequency Service Demand 12:42 – Microtransit, Micromobility, and Pedestrian Ecosystems 16:43 – Open-Loop Payments Explained: CalITP and Financial Inclusion 18:50 – Applying Open-Loop Procurement Frameworks to Zero-Emission Vehicle Adoption 24:02 – The Funding Divide: Operations vs. Capital Investments 27:28 – Core Advice for Transit Leaders and Policy Makers Featured Guest & Resources Mentioned Dr. Susie Pike | Director, UC Davis Transit Research Center | Research Faculty, UC Davis Institute of Transportation Studies LinkedIn: Dr. Susie Pike Profile Organization: UC Davis Institute of Transportation Studies Jared Schnader | Host, Transition to Zero | Executive Vice President, CALSTART LinkedIn: Jared Schnader Profile Organization: CALSTART Relevant Links & Industry Organizations: California Integrated Travel Program (CalITP) American Public Transportation Association (APTA) California Transit Association (CTA) CALACT (California Association for Coordinated Transportation) SEO Keywords: Public Transit Research, Zero-Emission Buses, Open Loop Payments, Microtransit Solutions, CalITP, Transit Operations Funding, Micromobility Integration, Transit Equity, Travel Behavior Modeling, UC Davis ITS, CALSTART, Transition to Zero Podcast. Produced and Edited by Eroded Media

October 6, 2026Episode 5941 min

Unpacking Bus Customization: Costs, Risks, and the Road to Fleet Standardization with Phil Plotch & Grace Truslow

Transition to Zero Podcast: Show Notes Episode Title Unpacking Bus Customization: Costs, Risks, and the Road to Fleet Standardization with Phil Plotch & Grace Truslow Episode Description & SEO Summary Why do U.S. transit agencies pay significantly more for buses than their international peers, and why are zero-emission bus procurements facing severe market bottlenecks ? In this episode of Transition to Zero , host Jared Schnader welcomes Philip Plotch (Senior Fellow & Principal Researcher) and Grace Truslow (Policy Analyst) from the Eno Center for Transportation to unpack their landmark research on bus procurement, fleet customization, and transit market reform . From custom driver seats and proprietary CAN bus software architectures to supply chain fragmentation and single-bid RFPs, Phil and Grace reveal how hyper-specifying transit buses "down to every screw" inflates capital costs, delays vehicle delivery, and creates severe financial risk for OEMs . The conversation explores real-world pricing trends comparing zero-emission battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell buses against legacy diesel fleets . Drawing vital historical lessons from the successful 1930s PCC streetcar and the failed 1970s federal Transbus initiative, the guests outline actionable policy recommendations—including workforce capacity building, specification disclosure against the APTA White Book, expanded joint procurement state schedules, and restructured FTA Low-No grant incentives . Whether you are a transit agency executive, fleet manager, procurement leader, zero-emission vehicle manufacturer, or transportation policy researcher, this episode provides a strategic blueprint for driving competition, lowering vehicle acquisition costs, and accelerating clean transit deployment across North America . SEO Keywords: Zero-Emission Bus Procurement, Transit Bus Customization, Battery Electric Bus Costs, Eno Center for Transportation, APTA White Book, Transit Fleet Management, FTA Low-No Grants, Transit Vehicle Standardization, Bus OEM Market, Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus, CALSTART, Transition to Zero Podcast . Key Takeaways & Discussion Highlights The High Cost of Hyper-Customization: Unlike high-volume automotive assembly lines, U.S. transit buses are built like luxury Rolls-Royces . Custom specifications across seats, windows, wiring, and stop-request mechanisms slow assembly lines, increase error rates, and drive up production costs . The Competition & OEM Deficit: Stringent contractual terms, custom liabilities, and complex specifications have contributed to market consolidation, leaving only two major U.S. bus manufacturers—and effectively a single primary supplier for large metropolitan transit authorities . Zero-Emission Bus Pricing Trends: Data from 2015 to 2025 shows median prices for zero-emission buses hovering around $1 million compared to $500,000 for diesel models (in 2023 dollars) . Pricing disparities across agencies stem heavily from custom configurations rather than baseline technology differences . Software Interoperability & Electronics Complexity: Modern buses feature up to 12 separate antennas and dozens of isolated electronic systems (ITS, security cameras, telematics, fare collection) . Lack of standard software protocols locks agencies into proprietary systems and increases factory integration hurdles . Historical Lessons in Standardization: The industry-led PCC streetcar in the 1930s succeeded through operator-manufacturer collaboration . Conversely, the top-down federal Transbus program of the 1970s failed completely after failing to receive a single OEM bid . Policy Pathways for Procurement Reform: Solutions require stronger procurement workforce training, spec justification against baseline whitebooks, joint procurement schedules, and federal grant structures (like FTA Low-No) that financially reward standard platform adoption . Timestamps (00:01) Welcome to Transition to Zero & Guest Introductions (00:44) Research Overview: The Eno Center for Transportation Bus Customization Study (01:21) Root Causes: Declining OEM Competition, Rising Costs, and Supplier Risk (03:38) Defining Customization: How Every Component and Contract Term Gets Altered (05:22) Ford vs. Rolls-Royce: Assembly Line Efficiency vs. Custom Bus Manufacturing (07:30) Operational Motivation: Driver Ergonomics, Terrain, and Procurement Inertia (09:25) Factory Floor Challenges: Managing SKUs, Part Warehousing, and Direct Supplier Sales (12:47) Study Methodology: 20 Years of Procurement Records and 75+ Industry Interviews (15:11) Cost Comparisons: Median Pricing for Zero-Emission vs. Diesel/CNG Buses (17:32) Software Complexity, Onboard Systems, and Interoperability Friction (20:51) Market Barriers: How Excessive Customization Deters New Vehicle Manufacturers (22:48) Case Studies in History: The 1930s PCC Streetcar vs. The 1970s Transbus Program (27:31) Evaluating Current Tools: APTA White Book and State Joint Procurement Schedules (29:49) Policy Recommendations: Spec Disclosures, Financial Incentives, and Workforce Development (32:57) Building Agency Capacity: Training Procurement and Maintenance Personnel (34:58) Federal Grant Leverage: Incentivizing Standardization in FTA Low-No Programs (39:00) The "Why" Question: Key Takeaways for Transit Executives and Board Members Notable Quotes "In the U.S. transit bus market, customization exists throughout the vehicle. Every screw is customized." — Grace Truslow , Policy Analyst, Eno Center for Transportation "In the U.S., transit buses aren't built like Fords—they're built more like a Rolls-Royce." — Philip Plotch , Senior Fellow & Principal Researcher, Eno Center for Transportation "When a transit agency prepares its specs, they should ask: Why are we different from the APTA White Book? Ask the right questions, and you'll get answers that surprise you." — Philip Plotch , Senior Fellow & Principal Researcher, Eno Center for Transportation Featured Guests & Episode Links Philip Plotch, PhD — Senior Fellow & Principal Researcher, Eno Center for Transportation LinkedIn Profile Grace Truslow — Policy Analyst, Eno Center for Transportation LinkedIn Profile Featured Reports & Research Data: Customization, Competition, and Costs Report - Eno Center for Transportation A Bus is a Bus: The Costs of Excess Customization - Eno Center Article Interactive Bus Procurement Explorer & Dataset Organizations & Industry Resources: Eno Center for Transportation CALSTART / Catalyst Mobility American Public Transportation Association (APTA) FTA Low or No Emission Vehicle Program Produced and Edited by Eroded Media

September 8, 2026Episode 5838 min

Digital learning for transit workforce development with Ron Thiele of Xpan

This episode of Transition to Zero explores how transit agencies can use digital learning, digital twins, and modern LMS tools to prepare their workforce for zero emission fleets and other evolving propulsion systems. Host Jared Schnader speaks with Ron Thiele, founder and CEO of Xpan, about why training needs to start early, how agencies can build confidence before vehicles arrive, and what it takes to make learning relevant, measurable, and sustainable. We discuss how Xpan supports agencies across buses, rail, and emerging technologies by turning operational knowledge into interactive training experiences. Ron also shares lessons from Calgary Transit, the role of AI in organizing institutional knowledge, and why procurement, design, and workforce planning need to be aligned from the start. Key topics In this episode, Ron Thiele shares the origin story of Xpan, which began in 2001 with a public transit learning project for Calgary Transit and grew into a broader educational technology company. We discuss how Xpan defines digital learning as more than static e-learning, with knowledge experiences shaped by organizational culture, learner needs, and the interface between them. Ron explains how digital twins can be used to train staff on bus components, maintenance procedures, inspection workflows, and safety-critical tasks like lockout tag out. We look at how augmented reality and virtual reality can layer guidance onto a physical bus or create peer-to-peer simulated environments for safer, more confident learning. Ron shares that the biggest training priorities for agencies moving to zero emission fleets are electrical theory, high voltage safety, power systems, and propulsion-specific knowledge. We discuss why confidence matters so much for mechanics and technicians, especially when working on unfamiliar equipment with limited room for error. Ron explains how Xpan builds agency-specific training by working with OEMs, agencies, and standards groups so content matches the exact vehicle, components, and culture of each organization. We discuss how AI and data analytics can help agencies aggregate institutional knowledge, measure performance, and create more personalized learning journeys. Ron outlines the importance of starting workforce development during procurement and design, not after vehicles or infrastructure are already delivered. We cover how LMS platforms can support onboarding, compliance, recertification, competency tracking, contractor orientation, and cross-system integration with HR, asset management, and other operational systems. Ron also addresses common misconceptions about digital learning, including the idea that hands-on work cannot be taught effectively in digital environments. Looking ahead, Ron expects artificial intelligence to help smooth out the knowledge supply chain and make workforce learning more personalized, responsive, and sustainable. Timestamps (00:00) Transition to Zero opens with Ron Thiele and Xpan's mission in transit education (00:37) Ron's background in physics, journalism, and the founding of Xpan in 2001 (02:09) What Ron learned entering the public transportation ecosystem (03:22) Why e-learning has a stigma and how Xpan approaches digital learning differently (04:34) Digital twins, bus components, and interactive maintenance training (06:02) Lockout tag out simulation and high voltage safety training (06:37) Augmented reality and virtual reality for guided mechanic learning (07:55) Biggest training friction points for agencies moving to new propulsion technologies (08:10) Electrical theory, safety, and high voltage as top upskilling priorities (09:28) Building confidence through safe, empathic digital learning environments (10:56) Why agency-specific training matters and how Xpan keeps content relevant (12:56) Using AI, machine learning, and data analytics across the knowledge supply chain (14:42) Bringing real-time bus data into learning environments and sandboxes (16:31) Why training should start at the design and procurement stage (18:19) Culture change and building a growth mindset for continuous knowledge updates (19:25) How modern LMS systems support competencies, compliance, and personalized learning paths (21:47) Best practices: center of truth, competency matrices, and contractor onboarding (23:47) FTA Lono workforce development funding and the need to engage early (24:23) Why waiting until warranty periods end is too late for training readiness (27:05) Calgary Transit case study and the evolution from DVD to digital twins (30:34) How Xpan works with OEMs and agencies to build academies across a fleet lifecycle (32:41) Misconceptions about digital learning, infrastructure gaps, and adoption barriers (34:31) The next three to five years for AI, personalization, and workforce development (36:00) How to contact Ron Thiele and where Xpan is headed next Notable quotes Copy "The rate of change in this industry will never be slower than today." Copy "Technology is not the solution. It's the tool that we get to use." Copy "The confidence piece is a big piece of this." Links: CALSTART: www.calstart.org Xpan: www.xpan.ca

August 18, 2026Episode 570 min

Transforming Transit Operations: Anthony DeKeyser with Sun Metro in El Paso, Texas

Transforming Transit Operations: Anthony's Military Background, Fort Bliss Partnerships, and the Future of Clean Mobility Explore how Anthony's military background informs a disciplined, mission-driven approach to transit leadership, strategic planning, and workforce development. In this episode, we break down the synergies behind Sun Metro's operations, the Fort Bliss partnership, and the ongoing transition to CNG and battery electric buses. Episode Overview Anthony shares how lessons from military service translate into strong leadership in public transit, especially when it comes to coordination, execution, and long-range planning. The conversation highlights the importance of building operational synergies across departments, aligning capital planning with service needs, and making decisions that support both today's riders and tomorrow's growth. A major focus of the discussion is the work with Fort Bliss , where collaboration and community-centered mobility planning create a model for effective transit support. The episode also dives into the practical realities of deploying CNG buses and battery electric buses, including infrastructure, fleet modernization, and the strategic thinking required to scale clean transportation successfully. Key Topics Covered Anthony's military background and leadership mindset Building synergies across transit operations and stakeholder groups The Fort Bliss partnership and community mobility coordination CNG bus planning, deployment, and infrastructure considerations Battery electric bus discussions and the path to fleet electrification Workforce development, training, and team readiness Why strategic planning is essential for sustainable transit growth Aligning operations, capital investments, and long-term service goals Congressional and Public Sector Support Mentioned Congresswoman Veronica Escobar Senator Mary Kay [Blanco/placeholder mentioned in transcript] Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Mass Transit Board City of El Paso Sun Metro Organizations and Groups Discussed Fort Bliss Sun Metro CalSTART Texas Transit Association Bridge Fellowship Program MV Transportation Clean Technology Training Trust SEO Keywords Anthony military background, Fort Bliss transit, CNG buses, battery electric buses, workforce development, strategic planning, transit leadership, clean transportation, fleet modernization, public transit operations, Sun Metro, transit synergies, mobility planning, infrastructure planning, sustainable transit, FTA grants, transit workforce training, El Paso transit Hashtags #TransitLeadership #StrategicPlanning #WorkforceDevelopment #FortBliss #CNGBuses #ElectricBuses #BatteryElectricBuses #PublicTransit #CleanTransportation #FleetModernization #TransitOperations #MobilityPlanning #Leadership #TransportationPlanning #SustainableTransit #FTA #ElPaso #SunMetro #TexasTransit Why This Conversation Matters This episode stands out because it connects leadership experience with real-world transit execution. Anthony's military background, combined with a strategic approach to planning and workforce development, shows how strong systems thinking can drive meaningful progress in public transportation.

August 4, 2026Episode 5632 min

Cracking the Zero-Emission Fleet Life Cycle: Parts, Supply Chains, and Keeping Buses on the Road

Episode Overview The procurement of a zero-emission bus (ZEB) is not the final destination—it is merely the starting line . As transit agencies across the country deploy advanced transit fleets, the ultimate metric of success shifts seamlessly from initial vehicle delivery to long-term lifecycle reliability . In this episode of Transition to Zero , host Jared Schnader , Executive Vice President at CALSTART , sits down with Allison Powers , Founder and CEO of Powers Parts , to dissect the critical shifting paradigms of zero-emission fleet maintenance, parts procurement, and data ecosystems . Historically, transit sector discussions have heavily centered around infrastructure deployments and scaling initial vehicle orders . However, today's operational reality demands a robust, integrated ecosystem capable of addressing acute vehicle-down situations—where a single obscure component or temporary software anomaly can idle a million-dollar asset . Powers shares her unique journey within the automotive and transit space, revealing how Powers Parts transformed from a dedicated hardware supplier into a comprehensive service ecosystem providing everything from diagnostic software to remanufactured heavy-duty components . The conversation delves deep into the strategic hurdles of modern supply chains, outlining the arduous master service agreement (MSA) processes required to secure OEM-level intellectual property with global manufacturers like Cummins, Danfoss, and John Deere . Listeners will also gain data-driven insights into the current state of Proterra fleets, where analytical outreach proves that a striking 70% of these legacy vehicles remain actively in service . Finally, Powers maps out the future of fleet logistics, looking ahead to the integration of predictive artificial intelligence (AI) to systematically prevent parts failures before they impact daily route ridership . ⚡ Key Soundbites & Quotes On the Fleet Life Cycle: "Procurement is just the beginning, honestly, of the life cycle... The transition doesn't end when it's delivered. Honestly, it's the beginning." On the Mission Behind the Assets: "To me, from a personal perspective, [the ecosystem] means getting somebody's grandmother on a bus and to their job... It is to make sure that the charger, the dispenser, the telematics on the bus is working. It's all of the things." On Preserving FTA Investments: "Instead of taking an entire million-dollar bus and putting it on the side because it needs one small part or software, which we have... we can help them get... back on the road." Advice for First-Time Fleet Adopters: "Start off with a small fleet. Get comfortable with the technology. Get some infrastructure. Train your technicians. Have them on site... because once you get comfortable, it's easy to add once you have some." 🔍 Relevant Links Guest Company Website: Powers Parts Official Site Connect with the Guest: Allison Powers on LinkedIn (Search: Alison Powers) Host Organization: CALSTART Clean Transportation Solutions Listen to More Episodes: Transition to Zero Podcast Hub 🏷️ Optimized Hashtags #ZeroEmissionBuses #CleanTransportation #TransitFleets #EVInfrastructure #SupplyChainLogistics #FleetMaintenance #CALSTART #PowersParts #SustainableTransit #WorkforceDevelopment #PredictiveMaintenance Show notes developed using Gemini and reviewed by Jared Schnader Editing and Production by Eroded Media

July 7, 2026Episode 5530 min

Olympics, Electrified Roads, and 80,000 people - UCLA's Road Ahead

content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this episode of Transition to Zero, Jared Schnader speaks with Clinton Bench, Director of Fleet and Transit at UCLA, about how the university is turning its campus into a real-world proving ground for transportation innovation. Clinton shares the scale and complexity of UCLA's fleet operations, which include more than a thousand vehicles serving everything from campus transit and passenger movement to specialized logistics like hazardous materials delivery, catering, and trash collection. He also explains how UCLA functions almost like a small city, with tens of thousands of people on campus each day and a transit system that has to serve students, employees, patients, and visitors across a dense, landlocked environment in West Los Angeles. A major theme of the conversation is UCLA's role as an "innovation laboratory" for electrification and new mobility technology. Clinton discusses how the university has been able to test battery-electric vehicles, share lessons with other universities and transit agencies, and support research partnerships across engineering, urban planning, and public policy. He also highlights progress in accessibility through a fully electrified demand-responsive paratransit system, which has dramatically expanded service for students with disabilities and helped make UCLA more accessible than it was just a few years ago. The discussion makes clear that innovation at UCLA is not just about technology for technology's sake—it's about improving service, inclusion, and operational efficiency at the same time. The conversation then turns to one of the episode's most exciting topics: UCLA's electrified road charging and mobility hub project, developed with CalStart and Electrion. Clinton explains how the project combines full transit bus electrification, a new mobility hub near the Westwood station, and wireless charging infrastructure that could reduce vehicle battery size, lower capital costs, and create new opportunities for shared charging revenue. He also walks through the practical side of implementation, including authentication, billing, and the use of fleet management systems to track usage and recover costs from internal and external users. Finally, Clinton describes how the mobility hub will support major regional changes, including the opening of the D Line extension and UCLA's role as the Olympic Village for the 2028 Games, where mobility, shuttles, and access planning will all be critical. keywords UCLA, campus transportation, electric vehicles, inductive charging, mobility hub, transit innovation, sustainable transit, UCLA Olympics, regional transit, electric fleet key topics UCLA campus transportation fleet Electrification of transit vehicles Dynamic inductive charging technology Mobility hub development at UCLA Regional transit improvements and Olympics prep guest name Clinton Bench Titles UCLA's Electric Fleet and Mobility Innovations Transforming Campus Transit: UCLA's Sustainable Future sound bites "Welcome to Transition to Zero, focusing on advanced transportation." "Wireless charging reduces battery size and costs." "Inductive charging can generate revenue and recoup costs." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to UCLA's Fleet Operations 02:27 UCLA's Role as a Living Laboratory for Innovation 05:08 Advancements in Paratransit Services 07:42 Exploring Electrified Roads and Dynamic Charging 10:30 The Mobility Hub and Its Impact on UCLA 12:47 Preparing for the 2028 Olympics at UCLA resources Electrion - Dynamic Inductive Charging Technology - https://electrion.com UCLA Transportation Department - https://transportation.ucla.edu LA 2028 Olympics Official Site - https://la28.org guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/clintonbench Twitter - https://twitter.com/clintonbench

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