WASHINGTON – Metro is recalling 47 new hybrid buses because of a potential electrical shortage in the lithium-ion battery system that stores energy for the bus motors.
The agency just bought the buses last summer. The buses are already being used on some routes in D.C. and Montgomery County.
Metro was notified about the defect last week. Engineers from New Flyer and BAE Systems, the companies that make the buses and electrical systems, have certified that the buses are safe for use as repairs are being made.
Metro will continue to operate the buses, but they will also inspect the buses more closely as work progresses.
The companies will be paying for the repair and retrofitting work.
The Washington Post reports that Metro is expected to receive five additional buses from New Flyer later this year, as part of a $89.3 million contract for 152 buses. Those buses will be rid of the problem before Metro gets them.
So far, Metro has received 147 of the new buses, according to the Post. Only 47 of those buses have energy storage systems made by BAE Systems.
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