Meet the Bus Driver Behind Maine’s First Electric School Bus
Maine’s first electric bus hit the road this year in Mount Desert Island - and veteran school bus driver Doug Van Gorder drove this clean energy transportation action.
Electric buses were new to Van Gorder when MDI nonprofit A Climate to Thrive (ACTT) first contacted him about the idea. Van Gorder teamed up with ACTT’s Electric Vehicle Project Manager, Gordon Beck, Maine’s Department of Environmental Protection and school colleagues to evaluate electric bus and grant options. The team won a $280,000 grant from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, which was funded by the Volkswagen Emissions Fraud Settlement. The grant covered 80 percent of the LionC electric bus’ cost - lowering the school’s investment to roughly the same as a traditional diesel bus.
MDI Regional School system continues to be a climate action pioneer. An impressive 1,400 solar panel rooftop installation completely offsets the High School’s electricity use - and now charges the electric bus.
In addition to eliminating dangerous diesel emissions, the EV bus is slated to slash the school’s annual operating costs by an estimated $5,000 in fuel alone. It’s also an excellent example of Maine schools and people adopting Maine Won’t Wait clean energy and transportation action strategies and driving a greener future.
How long have you been a school bus driver?
15 years, all with MDI.
What stood out to you when you first learned about EV school buses?
The lack of diesel exhaust that the kids and driver would be breathing was important.
Are the students saying anything to you about the new EV bus?
The kids won't let on directly, but I'm hearing through parents and teachers that they're excited and enjoy being a part of the experience.
What are the most significant changes about driving - and riding in - the EV bus? The bus handles no different from a traditional bus, but much quieter. The bus is performing for us just as expected. No dissatisfaction. Each bus has its own characteristics. This one being a little more comfortable on rough roads.
Would you recommend EV buses to other school systems considering making the switch?
Definitely recommend an electric bus for other schools. The (battery) range is limited, but perfect for typical morning and afternoon routes.