Broome County Transit is introducing three of BAE Systems' eco-friendly buses that are hitting the streets on Friday.

The electric-hybrid buses will reduce fuel cost, noise, and pollution. 

Broome County Commissioner of Public Transportation Greg Kilmer says BC Transit is saving up to 30 percent in fuel economy. They spend about $1 million in fuel a year. 

“Any reduction of that percentage is very significant," said Kilmer.

Diesel fuel usage of the buses is reduced by running on electric power through GPS programmed "green zones."

“The engine will automatically turn off with no driver intervention when it crosses a certain zone," said Steve Trichka, General Manager of Power and Propulsion Solutions at BAE Systems. 

The buses kick into electric power in targeted areas of high foot traffic. So far, these areas include Washington Avenue in Endicott, Downtown Binghamton, and Binghamton University's campus. 

This is the first technology of its kind to be introduced in New York State. BAE Systems has over 12,000 electric drive buses around the world. 

“It’s really cool to see this stuff that we’re selling around the world being implemented, adopted and being put on the streets here to benefit the citizens of Broome County," said Trichka.

The electric-hybrid buses were bought by BC Transit through a $2 million federal grant.