New microtranist is a mega-hit: Minnesota Valley Transit Authority unveils new EV mini bus the “E-Jest”

Wynder explained during his remarks that the E-Jest vehicles would be used for something called ‘microtransit.’ Microtransit is distinct from traditional transit routes by acting more closely to an on-demand rideshare program. The intention is that the new E-Jest vehicles will supplement the existing MVTA routes by providing connections for passengers between transit centers and defined bus paths, essentially filling in the gaps of service. He says that “this smaller bus is really designed to get in those neighborhoods to pick those individuals up.” 

 

Following the opening remarks, we were granted a mock-service demonstration of the E-Jest in action. Upon first impression, I was surprised at the unique aesthetic value these mini-buses possessed. It is a very uncommon design that is intended to stand out — bright orange and an almost boxy frame. The design challenges the idea of what public bus service should look like, as it’s not quite something that you’d expect to see operating in the Midwest. Just before the demonstration rides began, fellow guests and I lined up to take photos of the buses, which generated much anticipatory excitement to experience them firsthand.

 

Though the weather conditions made the journey to Apple Valley more treacherous, it did provide a formidable terrain to demonstrate the capabilities of these small, but efficient, micro-buses. With complimentary hot chocolate and MVTA color-branded cookies in hand, we made our way onto the E-Jests for the live demonstration. The bus comfortably fit 10 of us on board and we were met on entry with a pleasantly warmed cabin. The demo ride around the neighborhood was surprisingly smooth for a public transit vehicle, no abrupt jostling that you are frequently met with on a typical full-size diesel bus, which can be attributed to the compact size. Braking and acceleration were equally impressive as well, given the icy conditions of the road.  

Though the vehicle is relatively small for a bus and entirely battery-electric transport, it can travel approximately 130 miles on a full charge in standard conditions, more than capable of completing the necessary transit needs for their designated service areas. At only 19 feet in length, the E-Jest is a 10-passenger seating bus with additional room for standing passengers and outfitted with ADA-accessible accommodations, including a unique low passenger floor entrance which puts the door mere inches away from the road for significant ease of access when compared to a conventional bus.

The E-Jest will help the MVTA progress towards their goals outlined in their Sustainability Plan adopted in 2023. Specifically, these vehicles will act as a critical starting point for the implementation of their Zero Emission Bus Plan, hopefully encouraging further funding for fleet electrification in the coming years. Wynder says that these vehicles will prove to be economically advantageous as well, having been quoted saying that: “This could be a 12-year vehicle, as opposed to our smaller buses, which are a seven-year vehicle, with a minimal increase in overall price.” Annual fuel savings are predicted to cover infrastructure and implementation costs in just around three years, which will have even greater economic savings opportunities as the fleet grows. The E-Jest is a step towards greener transit, and I hope that it will create more traction for other agencies to follow suit in meeting Minnesota’s clean energy goals.