Solaris enters the U.S. market:  FIRST CONTRACT FOR ZERO-EMISSION BUSES

Less than a year and a half after announcing its 2026 Strategic Plan—outlining expansion into North America with a lineup of zero-emission vehicles—Solaris has signed its first contract for the delivery of electric buses to the United States. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the company. 

🟢  NEXT STOP: USA  

 In the final days of 2024, Solaris took a major step forward in its North American expansion strategy. On December 21, the company signed a contract for the delivery of electric buses to the United States. The first U.S. operator to receive Solaris buses will be King County Metro, the public transit agency serving Seattle and 34 other cities across Washington State. This contract is another milestone on Solaris’ journey to becoming the supplier of choice in North America for zero emission buses.    

“This is not only a major achievement for Solaris but also a significant progress for the bus industry in North America,”

said Javier Iriarte, CEO of Solaris Bus & Coach, at the contract signing. 

“We want to thank King County Metro for choosing Solaris and our product. It is my pleasure to be here, I am sure this is the start of a fruitful collaboration with King County Metro and that our vehicles will meet and exceed their expectations” he added.  

🟢  NEW SOLARIS BUSES DESIGNED FOR THE U.S. MARKET  

The agreement covers the delivery of two 40-foot (12-meter) and two 60-foot (18-meter) articulated electric buses, with an option for up to 12 additional units. The vehicles ordered by King County Metro will be built on an electric-born platform developed specifically for the U.S. market, ensuring full compliance with U.S. regulations, including FMVSS and ADA standards.  

This platform will integrate the most advanced battery-electric bus technologies Solaris has developed over its 15 years of experience in the sector. The buses will feature cutting-edge electric propulsion systems, Solaris’ proprietary battery integration technology, and state-of-the-art connectivity features—solutions that have already been proven in the European market.  

“In Europe, Solaris is recognized for the quality and outstanding performance of its zero-emission vehicles. We aim to bring the same service–proven technology to the U.S. transit authorities. Our commitment is to support the transition to zero-emission transportation in cities across Europe and North America by developing and delivering the most reliable and innovative products,” Iriarte concluded.  

🟢  A SHARED VISION FOR SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION  

Sustainable transportation is a shared goal that unites manufacturers, transit operators, and city officials. The ultimate objective is clear—reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and lowering fleet maintenance costs. At the end of the day, it’s all about enhancing the passenger experience, making urban life more comfortable, and encouraging greater use of public transit. “Metro is deeply committed to building a sustainable future through innovation,” said Michelle Allison, General Manager of King County Metro.  

“Our goal is to create a zero-emission fleet that not only improves the quality of life in our communities but also sets a new standard for environmental responsibility,” 

 Michelle Allison, General Manager of King County Metro.

King County Metro believes that its partnership with Solaris—a European manufacturer specializing in electric and hydrogen buses—will help address the current bus supply shortage while potentially offering more options for other North American transit agencies.    

“Our battery-electric buses are part of the clean energy infrastructure King County is building to deliver the transportation network of tomorrow. Expanding the number of manufacturers who can produce these new vehicles for North American markets benefits not only our region but transit agencies throughout the country. This agreement between King County Metro and Solaris is a critical next step,” said Dow Constantine, King County Executive.   

🟢  SOLARIS: A BENCHMARK FOR ZERO-EMISSION TRANSPORTATION 

 To date, Solaris has delivered over 5,500 zero-emission vehicles—including battery-electric buses, hydrogen buses, and trolleybuses—to nearly 30 countries. A key differentiator of Solaris is its industry-leading product portfolio, offering vehicles in a variety of lengths and propulsion technologies, with a strong focus on low- and zero-emission solutions.  

In 2017, the Solaris Urbino 12 electric (40-foot battery-electric bus) was named Bus of the Year, and in 2024, the Solaris Urbino 18 hydrogen (60-foot fuel cell bus) earned the prestigious Bus of the Year 2025 title in Europe.  

FRIENDLY REMINDER: The full version of Solaris Customer Magazine is accessible at www.magazine.solarisbus.com    

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