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Miami-Dade's $61.8M Electric Buses Fail; Broward Seeks Grant Forgiveness

4/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Electric buses in Miami-Dade County underperform, leaving many idle due to mechanical failures and high costs after the county spent $61.8 million on 69 Proterra buses.
Broward County is seeking federal forgiveness to avoid repaying grant money tied to these buses.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava remains optimistic about getting the buses operational.
Broward County officials are working to dispose of their non-functional buses.

History

Historical Context

Proterra launched its first electric bus, the EcoRide BE35, in 2010, aiming to transform public transit. Miami-Dade County's $61.8 million investment in 69 buses reflects a growing trend toward sustainable transportation. However, mechanical issues and high costs have left many buses idle, echoing challenges faced by other cities, such as Philadelphia, which removed its Proterra fleet due to defects in 2020.

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Story summary

Electric buses in Miami-Dade County underperform, leaving many idle due to mechanical failures and high costs after the county spent $61.8 million on 69 Proterra buses.
Broward County is seeking federal forgiveness to avoid repaying grant money tied to these buses.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava remains optimistic about getting the buses operational.
Broward County officials are working to dispose of their non-functional buses.

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