MetroLINK Expands EV Charging with EO

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MetroLINK, the public transit provider in Illinois’ Quad Cities, has partnered with EO Charging to enhance the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure for its electric bus fleet. EO, a global leader in depot-based EV charging solutions, will deliver its Full Fleet Electrification service, encompassing hardware, software, and ongoing operational support.

Key Highlights:

  • MetroLINK chooses EO Charging for EV infrastructure.
  • Charging stations to be installed at Rock Island and East Moline depots.
  • EO to provide comprehensive fleet and energy management solutions.
  • 2.2 million annual rides supported by the new infrastructure.
  • EO’s technology to ensure 24/7 monitoring and maintenance.

The project involves the installation and optimization of multiple charging stations at MetroLINK’s Operations & Maintenance Center (OMC) in Rock Island, IL, and East Pointe Station in East Moline, IL. These installations will include EO’s fleet management and energy management solutions to support daily operations at the depots.

MetroLINK’s services provide 2.2 million rides annually, connecting the community to jobs, education, healthcare, and retail while reducing traffic congestion and air pollution. The agency’s continuous investment in cutting-edge infrastructure reflects its commitment to providing essential transportation services.

Jeff Nelson, CEO at MetroLINK, stated, “MetroLINK has a lengthy and impactful history of demonstrating innovative and sustainable approaches to providing public transportation… Partnering with EO for this electrification project will ensure charging infrastructure reliability…”

EO will install Level 3 DC fast chargers (DCFC) and on-route pantograph chargers, facilitating rapid charging and maximizing space efficiency at the depots. EO’s EO Cloud fleet management solution and EO Hub energy management solution will oversee the chargers, ensuring comprehensive charge assurance. The 24/7/365 support from EO’s Technical Operations Center (TOC) and ongoing operations and maintenance (O&M) services will guarantee optimal performance and reliability.

EO Cloud provides real-time insights into the status and performance of all charging stations, while EO Hub automates load management, distributing energy intelligently throughout the depot. EO’s TOC and O&M services ensure around-the-clock monitoring and remote interventions, addressing issues before they impact vehicle operations. If remote fixes are not possible, onsite O&M services will include planned preventative maintenance.

John Walsh, President and CCO Americas at EO Charging, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “MetroLINK are a true pioneer in public transportation, so we are extremely excited to help them scale their electric bus fleet…”

EO Charging and MetroLINK are collaborating with AECOM, providing design and engineering services for the electrification projects at OMC and East Pointe Station. Discussions are already underway to expand MetroLINK’s electrification program across additional facilities and further optimize its fleet deployments.

About MetroLINK: MetroLINK serves eight communities in Illinois’ Quad Cities, recognized as a national leader in sustainability and innovation. With 160 employees and a fleet of 68 fixed-route buses (30% battery electric and 70% compressed natural gas), MetroLINK offers various transit services, including ADA paratransit, Microtransit, and seasonal passenger ferryboat service on the Mississippi River.

About EO Charging: EO Charging is a global pioneer in EV solutions for depot-based fleets. Committed to accelerating carbon-free transportation, EO provides reliable, accessible charging solutions for fleets worldwide. EO’s technology and service stack, including depot design, electrical installation, and ongoing maintenance, supports some of the world’s largest fleet operators, such as Amazon, DHL, UPS, Tesco, and Ocado.

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