Solaris Signs First Contract for Electric Bus Deliveries to the US; King County Metro

A year and a half ago, Solaris announced that its 2026 Strategic Plan included its entrance in the North American market, with a value proposition consisting of pure zero-emission buses (ZEBs). Solaris has just achieved a milestone step towards the execution of its strategy, signing its first contract for ZEB deliveries in the US with King County Metro, which provides transit service to the city of Seattle, WA and 34 other cities.

Solaris’ first contract in the US market involves the delivery of two 40-foot battery electric buses and two 60-foot articulated buses. The agreement also includes an option for up to 12 additional units. Vehicle deliveries are expected in the second half of 2026.

These buses will be based on an electric-born platform designed specifically for the North American market, compliant with all US regulations, including FMVSS and ADA compliance. This platform will feature the most progressive battery bus technology developed by Solaris in its 15 years of experience in battery buses, including advanced electrical propulsion systems, Solaris’ proprietary battery integration technology and state-of-the-art connectivity features, service proven in the European market.

To date, Solaris has delivered more than 5,000 zero-emission vehicles, which include battery electric buses, hydrogen buses, and trolleybuses, and which are operating in nearly 30 countries. Solaris holds the broadest product portfolio in the market, across all lengths and propulsion technologies, with special focus in low- and zero-emission.

In 2017, the Solaris Urbino 12 electric (40ft battery electric bus) was awarded the Bus of the Year title, and this year, the Solaris Urbino 18 hydrogen (60ft fuel cell electric vehicle) has been selected as the Bus of The Year 2025 in Europe.