Electric buses are passing a brutal cold-weather test in Wisconsin

Grist

by Benton Graham

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Madison, Wisconsin has successfully demonstrated that electric buses can operate effectively during extremely cold winters, addressing concerns about their viability in frigid climates. The city faced challenges with earlier iterations of electric buses, which struggled with battery performance and maintenance issues. However, by implementing advanced charging infrastructure and switching to improved battery technology from New Flyer, Madison's current fleet has proven resilient even in temperatures as low as -4°F. This success highlights the potential for zero-emissions public transit in northern cities. In 2020, Madison tested a smaller fleet of Proterra buses but encountered significant issues with range and maintenance. These challenges underscored doubts about electric buses' reliability in cold weather. However, the city's recent deployment of 62 New Flyer buses, equipped with overhead chargers at key stops, has significantly improved performance. The upgraded technology allows buses to recharge quickly during layovers, extending their operational range without frequent interruptions. This breakthrough is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, a sector responsible for nearly 30% of national emissions. By overcoming the cold-weather obstacle, Madison offers a model for other cities aiming to transition to electric transit. The city's progress not only supports its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 but also provides valuable insights into scalable solutions for sustainable transportation systems in diverse climates. The environmental benefits are substantial, as electric buses eliminate tailpipe emissions, thereby reducing pollution and health risks near bus stops. Madison's success story emphasizes that with the right infrastructure and technology, cities can adopt clean energy transit despite harsh weather conditions. This achievement marks a significant step toward making public transport more sustainable and accessible nationwide.

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Originally published on Grist on 2/23/2026