Helping Clear the Air with Electric Buses

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, August 5, 2026

Chicago recently recorded its worst air quality levels due to heavy diesel pollution from its role as a major transportation hub. To combat this, local transit agencies have committed to fully electrifying their bus fleets by 2040, aiming to reduce harmful emissions and protect vulnerable populations.

The Chicago area recently experienced its worst recorded air quality levels, underscoring its ongoing challenges with toxic diesel pollution. Despite a temporary improvement, experts warn the region’s air remains a persistent health risk, particularly during the summer months when smog conditions intensify.

Chicago’s status as a major transportation hub contributes significantly to its air quality issues. The city sees the highest volume of diesel trains and trucks moving between the East and West coasts, generating substantial pollution from diesel tailpipes. This volume of diesel traffic consistently places Chicago among cities worldwide with the most severe air pollution problems. Vulnerable groups such as children, seniors, and individuals with chronic lung conditions face heightened risks on days when outdoor air quality deteriorates.

Efforts to address this challenge are underway. In late March, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) issued a request for proposals to acquire at least 30 battery-electric buses as part of its broader “Charging Forward” initiative. This program aims to transition CTA’s bus fleet to full electrification by 2040. Currently, the CTA operates 25 electric buses within a fleet of approximately 2,000, but the addition of more electric vehicles is expected to reduce harmful emissions affecting both passengers and pedestrians.

Complementing the CTA’s efforts, Pace Suburban Bus Service has launched its own “Project Zero” plan to convert its entire 733-bus fleet to electric by 2040. Pace currently fields 47 hybrid-electric buses and at least one fully electric bus on its fixed routes, with plans to introduce an additional 22 electric buses later this year.

Brian Urbaszewski, director of Environmental Health Programs at the Respiratory Health Association, emphasized the importance of continuing initiatives that reduce air pollution across Chicago and its suburbs. He noted that progress toward fully electric public transit is critical to safeguarding public health, especially for those most affected by poor air quality.

While the 2040 goals set by both CTA and Pace represent significant commitments, ongoing support and investment will be necessary to meet these targets and improve air quality in the region over the coming decades.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.