### Show Notes for Episode: Transition to Zero
**Host:** Jerge Schneider, BUS Team Leader, CalSTART
**Guest:** Mark Hoffman, Auburn University
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**Introduction:**
- Host: Jared Schnader from CalSTART
- Guest: Mark Hoffman from Auburn University
**Main Topics Discussed:**
1. **Introduction to Mark Hoffman:**
- Background in vehicle energy systems.
- Experience at Clemson's International Center for Automotive Research and University of Michigan.
- Work at Auburn University for the past six years.
2. **Transit Bus Testing and Cybersecurity:**
- Auburn University's involvement in the Low and No Emission Component Assessment Program.
- Cybersecurity testing initiatives.
- Challenges with initial testing protocols and public results publication.
3. **Cybersecurity Concerns in Transit:**
- Addressing cybersecurity threats in transit vehicles.
- Potential vulnerabilities in automated and smart bus components.
- Examples of cybersecurity issues, such as RF noise interference and false telematics data.
4. **Industry Collaboration and Challenges:**
- Collaboration with OEMs and transit agencies for cybersecurity validation.
- The importance of third-party validation.
- Involvement of multiple stakeholders in improving transit bus cybersecurity.
5. **Auburn University's Broader Transit Research:**
- Development of a facility for real-world bus testing in various climates.
- Research on new materials for bus construction to improve efficiency.
- The role of Auburn's advanced polymer and additive manufacturing capabilities.
6. **Performance Specifications and Component Testing:**
- Creating performance metrics for low and no emission buses.
- The need for standardized component testing and performance assessment.
- Collaboration with Ohio State and leveraging work from the National Renewable Energy Lab.
7. **Future Directions and Industry Impact:**
- Importance of durability and life cycle maintenance cost assessment for new components.
- The potential for aggressive aging-based protocols for component testing.
- Ensuring industry-wide acceptance through collaborative protocol development.
8. **Engaging Students in Research:**
- Role of Auburn University students in transit research projects.
- Hands-on involvement in various research initiatives.
**Conclusion:**
- Recap of the discussion on cybersecurity, performance specifications, and research at Auburn University.
- Emphasis on industry collaboration and the future of transit research.
**Call to Action:**
- Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for future episodes and explore more about CalSTART and Auburn University's transit research.
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**Contact Information:**
- **CalSTART:** [Website](https://www.calstart.org)
- **Auburn University:** [Website](https://www.auburn.edu)
**Follow Us:**
- **Twitter:** [@CalSTART](https://twitter.com/CalSTART)
- **LinkedIn:** [CalSTART](https://www.linkedin.com/company/calstart)
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