This complaint involves Gillig all-electric transit buses, model years 2024–2026, and a recurring failure of the electric air compressor supplying the air brake system. When the compressor fails, system air pressure drops, resulting in automatic application of the brakes. Unlike a conventional combustion-engine drivetrain, the all-electric drivetrain can continue producing sufficient torque to allow the driver to power through the automatically applied brakes, particularly when the low-air condition occurs while the bus is in motion. This condition has resulted in overheated brakes, damaged axle assemblies, and, most seriously, a wheel-end fire. Fortunately, the fire was extinguished when the bus returned to the maintenance facility. This appears to be a recurring condition affecting multiple buses rather than an isolated component failure. To my knowledge, Gillig is aware of the issue and has progressed through multiple versions of the electric air compressor, reportedly now at approximately a fourth-generation design, yet the safety issue has not been resolved. The failure identified in this complaint was reported to Gillig. Gillig subsequently provided Montgomery County with a seven-page diagnostic procedure that must be completed before warranty action or other corrective measures are considered. Given the recurring failures and the potential consequences, including brake overheating, axle damage, and fire, I believe this condition warrants NHTSA review as a potential safety defect. I respectfully request that NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation evaluate this matter and consider an on-site inspection. The failure condition and affected buses can be demonstrated and documented at our maintenance facility. I believe an on-site evaluation would assist NHTSA in determining whether this represents a systemic safety defect and whether corrective action, including potential recall action, is warranted. Fleet Contact - [email protected]
- NHTSA ID
- 11759345
- Incident
- Aug 21, 2026