Funding Rounds · · 2 min read

Zum Awarded $32 Million Grant to Electrify School Buses Across the US

Zum, a leader in modernizing student transportation, has been awarded a whopping $32 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Clean School Bus Program.

Zum Awarded $32 Million Grant to Electrify School Buses Across the US

Zum, a leader in modernizing student transportation, has been awarded a whopping $32 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Clean School Bus Program. This brings Zum's total EPA grant funding to $58 million.

Through their innovative platform, Zum offers a comprehensive solution that addresses the needs of all stakeholders. Parents gain peace of mind with real-time tracking and communication features.

Schools benefit from streamlined operations, cost savings, and data-driven decision-making. Drivers and operators experience a user-friendly platform that simplifies their tasks and prioritizes safety and efficiency.

Zum's vision extends beyond convenience. They're committed to building a greener future for our children. Their focus on electric vehicles and sustainable practices is not only reducing emissions but also creating a healthier environment for everyone.

What does this new funding mean?

Zum will be deploying a fleet of 117 electric school buses across the U.S. These zero-emission buses will be serving schools in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, California, and Washington.

Some of the districts getting these shiny new rides include Branford Public Schools, Reading Public Schools, Alameda Unified School District, and Spokane Public Schools.

Zum is also waitlisted for an additional $22.5 million to provide electric buses to even more school districts in California.

Overall, these grants will allow Zum to put over 200 electric school buses on the road, funded by President Biden's Investing in America agenda.

Why electric school buses?

It's all about creating a cleaner, healthier future for our kids. These electric buses will cut down on emissions and improve air quality, especially around schools.

Zum isn't just about electric buses, they're also developing cutting-edge technology to go along with them.

Their AI-powered platform helps Zum manage their fleet efficiently and effectively. This is all part of Zum's mission to make school transportation not just clean, but also safe, reliable, and sustainable.

The Founder

Zum was Founded by a first-generation immigrant and mother, Ritu Narayan.

Zum is changing the way we think about school buses.

Back in January, Zum received another EPA grant to deploy electric buses nationwide. They also recently announced a partnership with the Oakland Unified School District to create the first-ever 100% electric school bus system with groundbreaking vehicle-to-grid technology.

Their innovative approach to technology and electrification is making school transportation safer, cleaner, and more efficient for everyone involved.

Read next