A Maryland school district that bought hundreds of electric buses is now ordering more than 100 diesel buses due to the electric ones not meeting requirements for use.
Montgomery County Public Schools is seeking proposals for companies to purchase 140 diesel buses, 45 of which must have wheelchair capabilities, the Washington Post reported Monday. A school board vote on a contract is expected in April.
The change comes as some electric buses are experiencing extended periods of service interruptions because of “charging challenges” and parts issues, district spokesperson Liliana López said. She added that the maintenance problems are exacerbated by cold weather. Also, other buses aren’t meeting the district's needs to transport students with special needs.
