Four new battery electric buses began operating as shuttles for the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) Consolidated Rental Car Facility (CONRAC) on December 15, according to an announcement from the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT). These buses are the first in a planned fleet of 20 that will eventually replace diesel-powered shuttles running between HNL terminals and the CONRAC.
“Making the switch to lower emissions fleets is one way we’re working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions statewide,” said Governor Josh Green. “As a state surrounded by water and susceptible to the impacts of climate change, we need to do whatever we can to reduce our carbon footprint and make our transportation operations sustainable for future generations.”
HDOT previously conducted a three-month pilot in 2018 to evaluate alternative energy vehicles for this shuttle service. The study included diesel, gas, electric, and compressed natural gas vehicles on the route between airport terminals and the temporary CONRAC. Findings showed that operating an electric bus instead of a diesel bus could save about $47,000 annually in fuel or energy costs.
“Roughly 22 million passengers come through HNL every year,” said Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen. “We’re starting with four buses to make the trip to our rental car facility as clean and comfortable as possible. By 2030 all CONRAC shuttle trips will be on battery electric buses.”
The initial four electric buses cost $4.3 million, funded by Customer Facility Charges collected from each rental car transaction at state airports.
The Hawaii Department of Transportation manages facilities including airports, harbors, and highways across all six major Hawaiian islands and operates as part of the executive branch of Hawaii’s government (official website). The agency oversees planning, design, construction, and maintenance of transportation infrastructure while coordinating with federal partners such as the Federal Aviation Administration (official website).
HDOT’s responsibilities include supporting mobility for people and goods throughout Hawaii while aiming for sustainability in its operations (official website).
Pictures from the unveiling event are available online.
