San José Mineta International Airport Moves to Fully Electric Shuttle Bus Fleet

San José, Calif. – San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) has taken delivery of four new Gillig 40-foot fully electric shuttle buses, marking the replacement of the Airport’s remaining compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered buses and moving SJC to a fully electric airport shuttle bus fleet.

The four buses entered service in early September. Two additional Gillig 40-foot electric buses are expected to join them in November, bringing the Airport’s new electric shuttle fleet to six buses. The new Gillig units complement eight electric Proterra buses in service since 2019. SJC estimates the six new electric buses will eliminate the use of approximately 31,200 gallons-equivalent of CNG fuel annually.

The new buses were primarily funded through Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) grants, which covered approximately 80.59% of the total bus cost. Each bus also received a $120,000 voucher through California’s Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP).

The electric buses will provide shuttle service for Airport passengers while supporting the City’s broader efforts to reduce emissions and transition its transportation fleet to cleaner technologies.

“This is the kind of practical investment that strengthens our infrastructure while supporting a cleaner and more sustainable future for San José,” said San José City Manager Jennifer Maguire. “By transitioning our Airport’s shuttle fleet to electric vehicles, we are reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and making thoughtful investments in the systems that serve our residents, visitors, and travelers every day.”

“San José is committed to leading by example when it comes to sustainability and innovation,” said San José Mayor Matt Mahan. “Bringing a fully electric shuttle fleet to our international airport is another step toward cleaner transportation and a better experience for the millions of travelers who pass through SJC each year.”

“SJC is focused on making investments that improve the passenger experience while preparing our Airport for the future,” said Mookie Patel, director of aviation at San José Mineta International Airport.  “Moving to a fully electric shuttle fleet is a significant milestone for SJC, and it reflects the strong partnerships and smart investments that make projects like this possible.”