BAE Systems will supply 42 Gen3 electric drive systems for the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency’s new hybrid-electric bus fleet. Bus manufacturer New Flyer will integrate the hybrid bus drive systems into the vehicles.

Since 2007, SFMTA has operated buses using BAE Systems’ electric drive technology. The Gen3 electric drive systems build on proven components and incorporates materials like silicon carbide (SiC) with a lightweight, compact design for electrical efficiency.

“BAE Systems’ Gen3 system will help the SFMTA achieve its goals by providing dependable, zero-emission capable technology,” said Bob Lamanna, vice president and general manager of Power & Propulsion Solutions at BAE Systems. “Hybrid buses equipped with our technology will deliver immediate benefits. Those include reducing emissions and improving air quality, while advancing San Francisco toward a zero-emission transit system.”

Gen3 Electric Drive Systems Enhance Efficiency

The Gen3 system integrates a traction motor, onboard energy storage, and smart-power electronics to create a clean electric propulsion and accessory power system, BAE said. BAE Systems reduced the number of components, connections, and cables by upgrading the modular power control system and electric motor.

Hybrid buses using these drive systems deliver enhanced efficiency with features like engine start-stop and geofencing technology. This automatically switches the bus into full-electric mode in green zones.

Nearly 30 Years of Electric Propulsion Expertise

BAE Systems has spent nearly three decades developing and integrating electric power and propulsion systems for buses and heavy-duty vehicles. The company supports more than 19,000 propulsion systems currently operating on transit buses around the globe.

The company develops and services its electric propulsion technology at facilities in Endicott, New York, and Rochester, UK.