Pasadena to Launch 17 Hydrogen-Powered Buses by 2027

Pasadena Transit (File Photo – City of Pasadena).

The City of Pasadena has received official authorization from the City Council to purchase 17 hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric buses for the Pasadena Transit fleet. This marks a major milestone in the city’s commitment to sustainable public transportation. The new buses, set to enter service by spring 2027, will play a key role in Pasadena’s transition to a fully zero-emission public transit system.

By News Desk

The approval of this purchase not only provides Pasadena residents with a greener public transportation option but also represents the city’s first zero-emission, multi-vehicle public transit order. Once operational, nearly 46% of the Pasadena Transit fleet will be powered by clean energy, significantly reducing the city’s carbon footprint.

“To have almost 50% of our fleet transitioned to zero-emission by 2028 is a huge accomplishment, especially for an agency of our size,” said Joaquin Siques, Director of Pasadena’s Department of Transportation (DOT). “I’m incredibly proud of our staff who have worked tirelessly over the last two years to secure the funding for this transition.”

This move follows the City Council’s adoption of the Zero Emission Bus Rollout Plan in January 2023, which outlines the long-term strategy for converting Pasadena’s public transit fleet to zero-emission vehicles. The DOT previously introduced a battery-electric bus into service in May 2025, further signaling the city’s commitment to green transportation solutions. Later this year, Pasadena Dial-A-Ride will also debut its first zero-emission bus.

While Pasadena Transit currently operates on low-emission renewable natural gas, the city remains firmly committed to a full transition to zero-emission technology, according to an official statement. In addition to the new buses, the DOT is investing in critical infrastructure upgrades, including the construction of a new Transit Operations and Maintenance Facility and a Hydrogen Fueling Facility to support the new fleet.

To fund this ambitious transition, the DOT has secured over $100 million in grant funding, bringing the total project cost to $150.7 million. These funds will cover vehicle purchases, infrastructure development, and the acquisition of the necessary fueling technology for the expanding fleet.