Our Austin

Rapid 800 and 837 Lines Go Electric With New Charging

The city’s transit agency adds automated charging to maintain 10-minute service frequency for these key routes.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Electric Vehicles

Isometric editorial illustration of an automated bus charging station, representing the electrification of Austin transit infrastructure.
CapMetro has completed the electrification of Rapid 800 and 837 lines in Austin, using new automated overhead charging to maintain frequent service. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should your local transit agency prioritize full electrification of its bus fleet?

Commuters on CapMetro Rapid 800 and 837 lines can expect smoother service as both routes have officially gone electric, supported by two newly opened park-and-ride facilities. The transition includes automated on-route charging that allows the city to maintain 10- to 15-minute service frequencies during peak hours.

Why it matters

Expanding these electric lines is a key step in increasing reliable, frequent transit options for Austin commuters. By utilizing automated charging at the end of the line, the system extends the usable range of buses, ensuring that service frequency remains consistent throughout the day.

The transit expansion includes two new park-and-ride hubs—Expo Center with 159 spaces and Goodnight Ranch with 64 spaces—alongside a primary depot capable of charging 48 buses simultaneously. While these sites provide significant infrastructure, the total impact on city-wide energy load remains to be measured.

The players

CapMetro

The public transportation agency responsible for planning and operating transit services in the Austin area.

Camber Charging

The private company that provided the electric charging infrastructure and energy management software for the bus fleet.

The details

CapMetro implemented the upgrade by installing overhead pantograph charging equipment at the Expo Center and Goodnight Ranch terminals, allowing buses to charge automatically during layovers. To support the expanded fleet, Camber Charging installed 48 industrial dispensers at the primary depot, providing 2.9 megawatts of power. The electrification initiative enables sustained 10- to 15-minute service frequencies for both the Rapid 800 and 837 lines.

Timeline

  1. The infrastructure and electrified lines were confirmed operational as of October 21, 2026.

The Texas Context

This deployment follows the expansion patterns set by Project Connect as it builds out Austin's long-term transit footprint. It marks a significant shift from traditional diesel operations to a fully integrated electric fleet model for high-frequency urban corridors.

Commuters using the Rapid 800 and 837 routes should experience consistent service intervals, even during the busiest peak morning and evening hours. If you drive to the Expo Center or Goodnight Ranch, parking availability is now structured to support these frequent transit connections.

The takeaway

Commuters should observe the 10- to 15-minute intervals on the Rapid 800 and 837 lines to see how the new electric infrastructure holds up during daily transit surges. Keep an eye on the CapMetro service alerts for any adjustments to schedules as the new electric fleet continues its integration.

Further reading

Learn more about local transit developments on the Electric Vehicles page.

Source note: This article includes information reported by CHARGED Electric Vehicles Magazine.

Live Poll

Should your local transit agency prioritize full electrification of its bus fleet?