Daily EV news · US · 13 February 2026
Electric Vehicles
Branford deploys dozens of fully electric school buses with vehicle to grid capability
Branford Public Schools in Connecticut has introduced dozens of fully electric school buses in partnership with Zum, marking the first vehicle to grid enabled electric school bus fleet in the northeast United States. The deployment supports Connecticut's 2022 mandate requiring electric buses in vulnerable communities and statewide electrification by 2040. Students will begin using the buses in the next school year.
Why it matters
The vehicle to grid capability positions these buses as mobile energy assets that can support grid stability and create new revenue streams, a model that procurement teams and charge point operators may see replicated as school districts seek to offset electrification costs. The Connecticut mandate creates a clear pipeline for electric bus and charging infrastructure projects through 2040.
Branford school district in Connecticut transitions bus fleet to electric
Branford's school system in Connecticut is converting its bus fleet to electric vehicles, according to Fox 61. The rollout marks a shift toward zero-emission pupil transport in the district, though the report does not specify the number of buses involved or a completion timeline.
Why it matters
School districts represent a growing procurement segment for electric buses, with federal and state funding often available to support fleet electrification. Branford's move signals continued momentum in the US education sector, where charging infrastructure and depot upgrades are typically bundled with vehicle orders.
US EV registrations fall 0.4 percent in 2025, first annual decline in a decade as December drops 48 percent after tax credit repeal
US electric vehicle registrations declined 0.4 percent to 1.3 million vehicles in 2025, marking the first annual drop in a decade, according to industry data. EV market share fell to 7.8 percent from 8 percent the previous year. December registrations plunged 48 percent following the repeal of federal tax credits.
Why it matters
The sharp December decline and first annual contraction signal potential slowdown in charging infrastructure demand growth. CPOs and site hosts may need to revise expansion timelines as the policy shift dampens near term vehicle adoption rates.
Policy & Market
US Congress cuts NEVI electric vehicle charging programme by 503.8 million dollars in 2026 budget
The US Congress finalised the fiscal year 2026 budget with a 503.8 million dollar reduction to the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) programme, the federal initiative funding EV charging stations nationwide. Critics argue the subsidy distorts investment incentives and misallocates resources compared to private market responses to consumer demand. The Competitive Enterprise Institute commentary questions NEVI's installation record and advocates for reduced government intervention in EV charging infrastructure.
Why it matters
The budget cut signals potential policy headwinds for federally funded charging deployment, which may shift procurement opportunities towards private sector projects. CPOs relying on NEVI grants for site development should prepare for tighter federal funding and explore alternative capital sources.
Centre for American Progress links Canada–China EV deal to Trump administration auto policy
The Centre for American Progress has published an analysis arguing that the previous Trump administration's policies weakened the U.S. auto industry, citing a recent Canada–China electric vehicle agreement as evidence. The piece examines how trade and industrial policy decisions during that period may have affected American competitiveness in the EV sector. No specific figures or deal details are provided in the available excerpt.
Why it matters
Policy debates over past trade and industrial strategies shape current procurement rules and subsidy frameworks that determine where EV charging infrastructure and vehicle supply chains are built. Understanding these arguments helps CPOs and contractors anticipate regulatory shifts and funding eligibility criteria in North America.