CapMetro opens Goodnight Ranch and Expo Center hubs for 48-bus charging

CapMetro has opened two new park-and-ride facilities in Austin, Goodnight Ranch and Expo Center, which feature overhead pantograph charging systems for electric buses. The agency announced these locations in June, and they are now active at the termini of the Rapid 800 and Rapid 837 routes.

The primary function of the new terminals is to support the agency's expanding electric fleet. By allowing buses to charge while parked at the end of their routes, CapMetro aims to eliminate range anxiety for return trips. The infrastructure connects to a larger charging network that begins at the agency's main bus depot.

Infrastructure partner Camber Charging installed two 1,440 kW systems at the main depot. These units connect to 48 industrial dispensers, creating a total capacity of 2.9 MW. The setup is designed to charge up to 48 buses simultaneously during overnight hours.

Andy Skabowski, CapMetro's Chief Operations Officer and Executive Vice President, stated that the on-route charging strategy significantly increases the time buses can remain in service. He explained that a standard bus holds enough charge for eight hours of operation. With the new pantograph system, that duration extends to 20 to 22 hours.

Skabowski noted that the system charges the vehicle every time the pantograph drops. This frequent topping up allows the agency to commit to 10 to 15 minute service intervals. The approach removes the need for buses to return to the main depot solely for overnight charging.

The vehicles operating on these routes are built on the Xcelsior battery-electric platform from New Flyer, a Canadian manufacturer. The buses provide up to 320 all-electric horsepower with full torque at zero rpm. New Flyer states the platform can offer up to 660 kWh of available capacity, though CapMetro did not specify the exact battery size for these units.

Camber Charging manages preventive maintenance, energy management software, and remote diagnostics across all three charging locations. The company handles the technical oversight for both the depot and the two new terminals.