WeDriveU is celebrating the introduction of 12 new Gillig electric hybrid buses as part of a contract extension awarded by Northwestern University based on a formal request for proposal process completed in 2024.

WeDriveU Shuttles - Northwestern University

Since 2019, WeDriveU has managed fixed route intercampus shuttles for students, faculty, and staff at Northwestern’s Chicago and Evanston campuses. The shuttle program served approximately 550,000 passengers and 1,700 average daily riders in 2024.

“We are excited to extend our relationship with WeDriveU, which has been a trusted partner for several years,” said Paul Merkey, associate director of Transportation and Parking, Northwestern. “They’re at the forefront of providing exceptional service and integrating new technologies for the benefit of their customers and riders alike.”

According to a university announcement about the state-of-the-art fleet, “The new buses are part of a broader initiative to modernize campus transportation while reducing environmental impact.” (Northwestern Now).

Merkey added, “These buses are more than just a new look for our fleet. They’re a reflection of our values: sustainability, innovation and care for the communities we serve.”

The new agreement includes SafeRide operations powered by WeDriveU’s partner Via, bringing shuttle and on-demand services under a single contract and mobile app for a streamlined rider experience.

Award-Winning Campus Mobility

WeDriveU expands partnership with Northwestern

Northwestern’s commuter offerings represent sustainable transportation excellence in higher education. By improving accessibility to the campuses, residences, train stations and local services, the system reduces emissions, traffic, and parking congestion with alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles.

For the fifth year in a row, the university earned the ‘National Standard of Excellence’ among the 2025 Best Workplaces and Best Universities for Commuters (BWC). In addition to Northwestern’s shuttles operated by WeDriveU, BWC recognized its, CTA bus and METRA services, pre-tax transit benefits for employees, carsharing, Pace Ridesharing, flex work arrangements, free electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, bike-sharing and amenities.

WeDriveU’s Chicago team oversees Northwestern’s shuttle program operations, driver staffing, passenger service, fleet maintenance, onboard technology, and advertising. In addition to daily bus service, WeDriveU coordinates special event transportation for commencement, gameday shuttles, and charters for university departments, schools, and student groups.

Learn More

Plan your ride on Northwestern shuttles here.

Learn about WeDriveU’s University Shuttles and Transit Services here.