• Seller: Joshua R ubenstein
• Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania
• Mileage: 500K+ Shown
• Chassis #: 1M9TG11J59G816001
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: Electric + Hydrogen
• Transmission: Automatic

As the world’s population increases with much of the growth occurring in urban areas, governments at all levels are encouraging the motoring public to abandon cars in favor of public transport for our daily commute. The theory seems sound, removing traffic from the streets, but the shortcoming of many buses is that they utilize diesel engines that contribute to pollution. However, Proterra produced Prototype Number One in 2010, providing a glimpse into the future for public transport operators. It utilizes electric motors, which is, in itself, nothing new. However, Prototype Number One included Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology to keep the batteries topped off during operation, removing the need to connect to the grid for charging. This groundbreaking vehicle has spent time in the Museum of Bus Transportation, but the time has come for it to head to a new home. Therefore, the seller has listed it exclusively with us at Barn Finds Auctions.

The styling of Prototype Number One is both modern and retro. It utilizes a streamlined body, but unlike many similar vehicles, this one has a back window that harks back to the roots of bus production. However, the swooping exterior hides some pretty amazing construction techniques. There is no steel in the body and no heavy frame beneath. Proterra utilized balsa wood and composite technology, forming the shell in a vacuum that drew the resin through the balsa. The concept sounds almost scary and potentially fragile, but not only is it exceptionally robust and impact-resistant, but it also made Prototype One over 7,000 lbs lighter than an equivalent conventional bus. As an added benefit, the material is corrosion resistant, meaning there are no rust problems that could cause the operator problems. This classic exhibits cosmetic deterioration, although addressing that is unlikely to be difficult. The exterior panels are wrapped, so a refresh would entail little more than removing the existing vinyl and applying the finish of your choice. The glass is in good order, and there are no trim issues.

In my previous life, I spent time as a Bus Operator, and I must say that maneuvering a 41-foot bus through tight suburban streets is hugely satisfying. Modern buses feature automatic transmissions and power steering, which is also surprisingly effortless. This Proterra’s driving compartment is virtually complete, with the exterior mirror controls appearing to be the only missing components. It should be exceptionally comfortable because the driver is held in place by a Recaro air suspension seat. The wheel looks quite small by heavy vehicle standards, but with power assistance, there’s no need for something that would look more at home on the bridge of the Titanic. The controls are simple and user-friendly, with gauges and displays providing all of the information a driver could want or need.

Proterra’s attention to detail is visible in some pretty subtle ways when you examine the passenger compartment. Designed to carry thirty-five people, the company eliminated steel seat frames in favor of lighter plastic that was surprisingly strong but wiped further valuable pounds from the vehicle’s weight. One surprising aspect of this classic is that there is no appreciable wear on the seats or other surfaces. This may have been a Prototype, but it saw active service. Commuters can be hard on the equipment, so the condition is noteworthy for the lack of physical damage. This is one aspect of Prototype One that requires nothing.

This 2010 Proterra Prototype Number One won’t appeal to all tastes, but there isn’t a classic on Earth that achieves that feat. However, those passionate about heavy vehicles may find it extremely attractive. It was at the cutting edge of technology in 2010, demonstrating the future of public transport at a time when environmental concerns were growing among the population. It is a slice of automotive history that is no less deserving of preservation than a classic muscle or pony car. Jay Leno did an excellent review of this bus when it was new, which you can view below. If you feel up for that challenge, submitting a bid would be an excellent starting point.

Bid On This Auction

• History (1 bid)