CapMetro adds overhead chargers to boost electric bus service hours

CapMetro has activated a new charging network that extends the daily service window for its electric buses from eight hours to between twenty and twenty-two hours. The expansion relies on overhead pantograph chargers installed at two newly opened park-and-ride facilities, Goodnight Ranch and Expo Center.

The core of the system is located at CapMetro’s main bus depot, where infrastructure partner Camber Charging installed two 1,440 kW charging systems. These units connect to 48 industrial dispensers, creating a total capacity of 2.9 MW. This setup enables the depot to charge up to 48 electric vehicles simultaneously during the night.

Andy Skabowski, CapMetro’s Chief Operations Officer and Executive VP, explained that the on-route charging infrastructure is the key to maintaining frequent service. He noted that every time a pantograph drops to connect, the bus receives a charge. This continuous top-up capability allows the agency to commit to headways as short as ten to fifteen minutes on the Rapid 800 and Rapid 837 routes.

The two new terminals, first announced in June, are now operational alongside these specific electric bus lines. The overhead chargers at these endpoints allow buses to replenish their batteries after completing a run, ensuring they have sufficient range for the return trip without needing to return to the central depot for a full charge.

The vehicles operating on these routes are built on the Xcelsior battery-electric transit platform by New Flyer. While CapMetro did not specify the exact battery size used in this fleet, New Flyer states the platform can offer up to 660 kWh of available capacity. The buses produce up to 320 all-electric horsepower, with full torque available at zero RPM.

Camber Charging manages the system across all three locations. Their scope of work includes preventive maintenance, charger and energy management software, and remote diagnostics. The agency now operates these facilities to support the growing fleet of electric buses serving Austin.