A nationwide shift to electric buses could result in fewer transit jobs, according to a new report from the Government Accountability Office.
Instead of conventional mechanics who “turn wrenches” and change fluids, transit authorities will need technicians who can troubleshoot and repair electronic systems on battery-powered buses, the report said. But exactly how much staffing would change is uncertain.
“Eight of our selected transit agencies said they were uncertain about how much maintenance — and how many mechanics — will be needed once new buses and equipment are in place,” the report said. “Moreover, these agencies added that the limited numbers of zero-emission buses they currently have in operation make it difficult to determine how scaling up will affect the number of mechanics ultimately needed.”
GAO interviewed officials at 10 transit authorities around the country and analyzed federal data on the nationwide bus fleet. The report focused on bus operators, which make up the bulk of the country’s 3,000 transit agencies.
