Transpo agrees to buy CNG-powered buses to replace aging, diesel-powered fleet

SOUTH BEND — For now, Transpo is planning continue its transition from diesel-powered buses to ones that run on compressed natural gas (CNG).

Monday, the board approved a resolution to buy eight CNG-powered buses to replace aging diesel-powered buses.

Amy Hill, Transpo director and CEO, said as diesel-powered vehicles are replaced by such technology as CNG, hydrogen, electric and solar, South Bend’s transportation agency will evaluate all new energy uses.

But for now, it’s CNG.

“In the short term, CNG appears to be the best competitive option,” Hill told the board in an answer from a question by board member Eli Wax on the future energy source of bus transportation.