King County Metro Debuts New Battery-Electric Bus Fleet

Routes in Kent, Auburn and Renton among the cities that will feature the new buses

Jan. 30, 2026 at 7:55pm

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King County Metro is launching a new fleet of 89 battery-electric buses that will enhance transit operator safety, reduce harmful emissions, and prioritize deployment in South King County communities disproportionately affected by air pollution. The $111 million contract with GILLIG will bring 46 buses to the region, with 28 already available for service.

Why it matters

The new battery-electric buses will help improve air quality in South King County neighborhoods that experience higher-than-average levels of traffic-related pollution. The buses also feature enhanced safety partitions for transit operators, addressing concerns raised after a tragic incident in 2024.

The details

The new 40-foot buses can travel 240-280 miles on a single charge and carry up to 69 passengers. They will operate on select routes in Kent, Renton, and Auburn, including routes 105, 128, 161, 165, 184, and the future RapidRide F Line. Charging infrastructure is being built at the Tukwila Base, which will eventually support up to 120 battery-electric buses.

  • The new buses will begin service on February 2, 2026.
  • Metro has received 46 buses so far, with 28 available for immediate service.
  • Charging infrastructure at the Tukwila Base will be completed this spring.

The players

King County Metro

The public transit agency for King County, Washington, serving the Seattle metropolitan area.

GILLIG

A Livermore, California-based manufacturer of battery-electric buses, with whom Metro signed a $111 million contract for 89 buses.

Girmay Zahilay

King County Executive, who emphasized the importance of public transit and operator safety in the new bus deployment.

Shawn Yim

A Metro operator who tragically passed away in December 2024, prompting safety improvements in the new bus fleet.

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What they’re saying

“Public transit is one of the most powerful ways we connect people to opportunity. Every day, our operators show up to help people get to work, get to school, and get where they need to go.”

— Girmay Zahilay, King County Executive

“For decades, King County Metro has been a leader in clean transit. And while cleaner technology and cleaner air matter, progress is only possible if the people behind the wheel are safe and supported. As our operators show up for our communities, it's our responsibility to show up for them by prioritizing safety improvements. We continue to honor the memory of Shawn Yim by taking operator safety seriously and ensuring our commitments show up in real, tangible ways. With this new fleet, we are doing exactly that.”

— Girmay Zahilay, King County Executive

What’s next

The new battery-electric buses will begin service on February 2, 2026, with additional buses being brought online as they are delivered and tested. Charging infrastructure at the Tukwila Base is expected to be completed this spring, allowing the fleet to expand to up to 120 zero-emission buses.

The takeaway

King County Metro's investment in a new fleet of battery-electric buses demonstrates its commitment to cleaner, more sustainable public transportation. By prioritizing deployment in South King County neighborhoods with higher levels of air pollution, the agency is working to improve air quality and provide equitable access to clean transit options. The enhanced safety features for operators also show a dedication to supporting the frontline workers who connect communities to essential services.