Federal Transit Administration funds low and no-emission vehicles in U.S.

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA), a branch of the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT), recently announced that it has made funds available to promote the Low or No Emission Vehicle Deployment Program (LoNo) in the U.S.: the funds, which amount to $22.5 million, are dedicated to putting more vehicles that are low or no-emission on the roads.

The goal is to implement these next generation vehicles, which are energy-efficient, throughout the nation. Organizers intend for the money to encourage people to use more green technologies in transit buses as well, including electric, hybrid and hydrogen fuel cells in engines.

“These grants will help ensure that the future of mass transit is energy-efficient and friendly to the environment,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said. “This funding will reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and support the growing sustainable energy industry in the U.S.”

Many people see LoNo and similar programs as the future of U.S. infrastructure.

“The LoNo program has helped deploy environmentally-sound, technologically-advanced vehicles across the country, providing a better riding experience for passengers and improving public health,” Therese McMillan, acting FTA administrator, said. “By reducing fuel and maintenance costs, these modern vehicles are a great public investment -- saving taxpayer money in the long run while powering innovative American enterprises.”