In a significant development, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Board of Directors unanimously approved the acquisition of 50 new zero-emission buses, marking a crucial step in transitioning its bus fleet to 100 percent zero-emission technology by 2040. The purchase includes 40 hydrogen fuel-cell electric buses and 10 battery-electric buses, which will replace buses running on compressed natural gas. This decision reflects OCTA's commitment to environmental sustainability and aligns with California Air Resources Board's 2018 rule mandating full zero-emission vehicle adoption by 2040. The move comes after successful testing of fuel-cell and battery-electric buses through OCTA's Zero-Emission Bus (ZEB) Pilot Program, providing insights for future technology choices. The funding for the buses, totaling $77.5 million, is secured through Federal Transit Administration and California Climate Investments. Additionally, OCTA approved the purchase of 11 battery chargers to support the new battery-electric buses at the Santa Ana base. This investment showcases OCTA's dedication to cleaner public transportation and a sustainable future for Orange County.