King County Metro has announced a groundbreaking partnership with European bus manufacturer Solaris to purchase up to 16 zero-emission buses. This agreement marks Solaris’ first contract with a U.S.-based transit agency, signaling the company’s entry into the North American market. It also reflects Metro’s commitment to expanding its supplier network while addressing supply chain challenges affecting the transit industry.
Poland-based Solaris has supplied zero-emission buses for over a decade, providing battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and electric trolley buses to more than 30 countries. Recognized as Europe’s Bus of the Year in both 2017 and 2024, Solaris is known for its high-quality vehicles and advanced technology.
Metro’s initial purchase will include four battery-electric buses—two 40-foot and two 60-foot models—with the option to procure 12 additional vehicles. These buses, designed specifically for the North American market, will incorporate cutting-edge battery technology developed by Solaris.
“Metro has been a national leader in transitioning to a zero-emission fleet, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, lowering maintenance costs, and improving air quality,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine. “Our battery-electric buses are part of the clean energy infrastructure King County is building to deliver the transportation network of tomorrow. Expanding the number of manufacturers who can produce these new vehicles for North American markets benefits not only our region but transit agencies throughout the country. This agreement between King County Metro and Solaris is a critical next step.”
The first buses are scheduled to arrive in 2026 and will undergo rigorous testing and evaluations, including shadow service, to ensure their performance meets the requirements of North American transit agencies. The testing will help Metro assess Solaris’ ability to compete in the North American market for 40-foot and 60-foot battery-electric, hydrogen, and trolley buses.
“At Metro, we are deeply committed to building a sustainable future through innovation and collaboration,” said King County Metro General Manager Michelle Allison. “Our goal is to create a zero-emission fleet that not only enhances our communities but also leads the way in environmental responsibility. Metro’s partnership with electric and hydrogen bus manufacturer Solaris will help overcome the bus manufacturing shortage and potentially provide more options for other transit agencies in North America, too.”
Solaris CEO Javier Iriarte highlighted the significance of the contract in expanding the company’s global presence and contributing to the transition to zero-emission transportation.
“In Europe, the Solaris brand is widely recognized for the quality and superior performance of its zero-emission vehicles. We aim to bring the same service and proven technology to the U.S. transit authorities,” said Iriarte. “Our commitment is to support the transition to zero-emission transportation in cities across Europe and North America by developing and delivering the most reliable and innovative products. This contract marks significant progress for the bus industry in North America and has the potential to be a game-changer for the region over the coming decade.”
King County Metro’s commitment to clean energy extends beyond this partnership. The agency’s current zero-emission fleet includes battery-electric buses from New Flyer, with 89 new buses from GILLIG expected to arrive by the end of 2023. These vehicles will enter service in 2026, coinciding with the opening of Metro’s Tukwila Base.
The Tukwila Base, Metro’s first fully electrified bus base, will be a 544,000-square-foot facility designed to support 120 battery-electric buses. It will also house Metro’s growing fleet of electric work vehicles and feature a new employee parking garage equipped with charging stations.
The location of the Tukwila Base was carefully chosen to ensure the next-generation clean-air buses serve communities in south King County, which experience higher levels of air pollution than other parts of the region.
By partnering with Solaris and investing in zero-emission infrastructure, King County Metro is not only enhancing its own fleet but also helping to advance the adoption of clean-energy solutions across North America.
“Our battery-electric buses and fully electrified infrastructure are key components of creating a sustainable and equitable transportation network,” said Constantine. “This work is critical to improving air quality and addressing environmental disparities in communities most impacted by pollution.”