Golden Gate Transit buses go hybrid

Golden Gate Transit will introduce 67 new hybrid buses into its fleet in the coming weeks, taking the place of 15-year-old diesel-only models. 

Using a combination of electricity and diesel, the new buses are 25% cleaner burning than the buses they are replacing. They are manufactured locally, by Livermore-based Gillig, and feature engines specifically built for hilly, long Golden Gate Transit routes, transit officials say.

In addition to being cleaner, they are loaded with amenities.

The new buses feature large windows, USB and power outlets, overhead lights, high-back upholstered seats, front-mounted bike racks, and free Wi-Fi. The replacement project was about $67 million.