The Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA) marked a major milestone in sustainable public transportation with a grand ribbon-cutting ceremony unveiling 13 new hydrogen fuel cell buses, an interim hydrogen fueling station, and the agency’s bold new branding.

The event brought together local, regional, and state leaders, industry partners, and members of the Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce to celebrate VVTA’s continued commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and enhanced service for riders throughout the High Desert.

“This is an exciting and important day for our agency and our region,” said James Noble, Chair of the VVTA Board of Directors. “What we are celebrating today represents years of collaboration, planning, and partnership. It reflects VVTA’s commitment to innovation and our role as a regional leader in moving the High Desert toward a cleaner, more connected future that benefits our riders and our communities.”

The introduction of hydrogen fuel cell buses represents a significant step forward in reducing emissions while maintaining reliable, high-quality transit service. Hydrogen fuel cell buses produce zero tailpipe emissions, emitting only water.

Today’s unveiling is more than new buses or a fueling station, it’s a statement about our responsibility to the communities we serve and the environment we share,” said VVTA CEO Nancie Goff. “By introducing 13 hydrogen fuel cell buses and an interim fueling station, VVTA is advancing zero-emission transit, cleaner air, and a more sustainable future. This milestone, along with our new VVTA branding, reflects the power of strong partnerships and our commitment to investing wisely today for generations to come.

The project was made possible through critical partnerships and funding support from the Federal Transit Administration, San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA), CalACT, California Air Resources Board (CARB), GO_BIZ, and other regional and local partners. VVTA also recognized the contributions of New Flyer, Linde, ZeroMission, Ballard, GMV Syncromatics, and Keolis North America, plus other project and construction teams, and VVTA staff whose efforts brought the initiative from concept to reality.

Leading VVTA’s advancement into hydrogen fuel cell technology is Chief Maintenance Officer Dustin Strandberg. “VVTA has a long-standing history of leadership in clean transportation,” said Strandberg. “For decades, our buses have operated on renewable natural gas, and in 2019, we further expanded our commitment to zero-emission solutions with battery electric buses. Transitioning to hydrogen fuel cell technology is a natural next step, one that aligns with our operational needs, our desert environment, and our long-term vision for a more sustainable future.”

In addition to the new buses and fueling infrastructure, the event marked the official launch of VVTA’s new branding. The transition from “Victor Valley Transit” to “VVTA” reinforces clarity, consistency, and regional identity as the agency continues to grow. Under the direction of Chief Maintenance Officer Dustin Strandberg, Senior Marketing Manager & Public Information Officer Chris Ackermanwas tasked with leading the development of new branding and a visual identity that embodies modern design, an edgy visual presence, and a strong sense of forward motion. The new branding symbolizes progress, innovation, and momentum, aligning with VVTA’s investments in clean technology and its commitment to moving the High Desert confidently into the future.

Together, these investments reinforce VVTA’s mission to deliver safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible public transportation while positioning the High Desert as a leader in clean transit technology.