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Utah Electrification News
Learn about latest developments in electric transportation, infrastructure, and energy across the state. Stay informed on projects, partnerships, and policies advancing Utah’s electrified future.
Benefits of an Intelligent Electrified Transportation Plan
October 25, 2024
Economic Growth: Electric vehicles have the ability to increase the disposable income of drivers through the savings realized to power the vehicle as compared to powering an internal combustion vehicle (ICE). While electric vehicles tend to have higher upfront costs than ICE vehicles, they are often less expensive over time, partially from the savings derived…
What Is Intelligent Electrified Transportation?
October 25, 2024
To revolutionize our transportation system in a way that all Utahns benefit, synergy is key. This is what we’re referring to when we say, “Intelligent Electrified Transportation” — an integrated approach. Our methods encompass not only the vehicles themselves but also the intricate web of systems that support them, from utilities and power grids to…
This is the Place
October 24, 2024
Leading with innovative solutions, Utah is uniquely positioned to deploy an electrified transportation system. The state’s various climates and elevations — ranging from hot deserts to high alpine terrain — present year-round challenges, including extreme weather conditions. Additionally, Utah’s rural communities are spread across vast open spaces, agricultural lands — with scenic mountain valleys and…
1/4-Mile Electrified Roadway
June 10, 2024
Electrified Long-Distance Shipping Zero-Emissions Short-Range (Drayage) Deliveries To reduce emissions from short-distance drayage routes, ASPIRE will install a dynamic charging system at the Utah Inland Port. This will include two dynamic wireless power transfer (DWPT) systems: one co-developed with ASPIRE’s team at Purdue University and one using the Electreon DWPT system. The Electreon system, previously…
Why Pursue Intelligent Electrified Transportation Planning in Utah?
May 25, 2024
In 2023, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) issued a report that set electric vehicle efficiency ratios for light-duty vehicles registered in the United States. This report established that electric vehicles (EVs) use energy more efficiently than gasoline vehicles, a primary attribute enabling other benefits such as improved torque and reduced operating costs. For example,…
Metra Purchases BEMU-Trains from Stadler in $154 Million Agreement
February 4, 2024
Chicago Metra’s new $154 million contract with Stadler U.S. for eight battery-powered trainsets includes engineering, training, and spare parts, with options for additional trainsets and trailer cars totaling up to $181.4 million. Supported by a federal CMAQ grant and state funding, these ADA-compliant trainsets will seat 112 passengers per two-car set and offer features such…
PacifiCorp Grid Resilience & Innovation Partnership Grant
October 18, 2023
DOE awarded $150 million to PacifiCorp for grid resilience projects that touch six western states. Just under 100 million will support PacifiCorps PEER project for grid resilience, which is designed to reduce the impact of extreme weather events on portions of the electrical grid serving disadvantaged communities in areas at highest risk of wildfire. An…
60 Million Awarded to UTA for TRAX Vehicle Replacement Project
May 9, 2023
UTA received Federal Transit Administration funding to upgrade TRAX light-rail service with 20 new low-floor light rail vehicles that enhance accessibility and improve efficiency.
Stadler Rail Battery-Electric Trainset
February 16, 2023
The Utah Legislature funded development of the first battery-electric passenger train in the U.S. in partnership with ASPIRE, headquartered at Utah State University, and Stadler Rail, which will build the trainset at their North America Headquarters in Salt Lake City. Testing will begin in Fall 2025. The trainset has garnered national attention with Chicago Metra…