Six years ago, the City of New Rochelle launched a free, all-electric, on-demand microtransit service with a bold vision for equitable, sustainable transportation. The goal: improve access, reduce emissions, and connect residents to jobs, shops, and services. To date, the service has transported more than 285,000 passengers as well as avoided over 40,000 gallons of gas and 215,000 Single Occupancy Vehicle (SOV) miles.

As Westchester County looks to expand sustainable transit solutions, New Rochelle offers a blueprint for what smarter mobility can look like county-wide.

How the Service Evolved

From its initial ribbon cutting in 2019 to its current mixed-fleet service model, Circuit's journey in New Rochelle has been marked by community responsiveness, continuous improvement, and commitment to clean mobility.

Take a look at the highlights below:

Program Milestones

Here's more details on how the program evolved year by year:

• 2019: The pilot officially launched with 3 electric GEM vehicles, quickly serving over 13,000 passengers in the first six months, highlighting a strong early adoption and community need.
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• 2020: The year the COVID-19 crisis hit. Circuit and New Rochelle responded, expanding the coverage area increasing the fleet to 6 GEMs. Circuit partnered with Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital and 511NYRideshare to transport healthcare workers. The service earned the Clean Air NY Champions Award and was recognized by the National League of Cities as "one of the city's smartest investments."
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• 2021-22: Post pandemic, the 6 GEM vehicles continued operating. Ridership surged to nearly 65,000 passengers annually. By the end of 2022, the program had surpassed 150,000 cumulative passengers served.
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• 2023-24: The program launched its first local ad wrap campaign with Empire City Casino, generating a shared revenue for the city. It also was featured in a national case study by NREL. Based on feedback and performance needs, Circuit replaced 3 GEMs with 3 sedans for a 5-month mixed fleet pilot.
  • The results: The addition of EV sedans made New Rochelle’s service more reliable, efficient, and better suited for year-round performance, especially during the winter months. Riders noticed the difference, and demand quickly increased as the upgraded fleet delivered shorter wait times, faster ride times and an improved overall experience.
• 2025: After reviewing the results and rider response, the mixed fleet pilot was a success and New Rochelle adopted the permanent mixed fleet. Coverage was expanded to include high-demand destinations like Home Depot, ShopRite and Costco.

By the Numbers: Circuit's 6-Year Impact

Ridership, efficiency, and sustainability at a glance:

Voices from the Community

"This is very convenient therefore giving me the opportunity to arrive faster to the bus stop. Which helps me not be so late to work. Whereas I move slow due to deformed feet & a tilted knee."

"Brittney is so kind and was such a big help! She gave us wonderful tips about the area and informed us of the Circuit Service capabilities. She's the best!!!"

"Very warm. I really enjoyed riding in the new car! It was much more comfortable to travel in during the cold weather, and that's why I love being a taxpayer in New Rochelle! I can see my tax dollars at work!!!!!"

"As I have mentioned before! This service is very helpful not only for those that do not have a vehicle. But in case someone has difficulty walking etc. Thank you to the creator, drivers, you are all appreciated." 

"Amazing. Love the new Vehicles!!"

A Scalable Solution

New Rochelle has proven that electric microtransit can be reliable, efficient and community-driven. With over 285,000 passengers served, new revenue streams through local partnerships, and consistent operational improvements, the program stands as a strong model for what's possible.

As Westchester County prepares for a broader deployment of sustainable transportation, the Circuit New Rochelle story offers one clear message. When cities invest in smart, inclusive mobility, everyone moves forward.

Learn more in the full New Rochelle Case Study.