For first time in Canada, Milton Transit bus will be converted from diesel to electric
Published April 18, 2023 at 9:57 am
A Milton Transit bus is about to become the first in Canada to undergo a mid-life transition from diesel to electric battery power.
The Town of Milton is teaming up with Milton-based MTB Transit Solutions on the pilot project, which explores the innovative concept that diesel-to-electric conversion offers transit agencies a speedy, affordable path to electrification.
With transportation representing one quarter of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, the project supports Milton’s goals of sustainability and addressing climate change.
“Exploring transit electrification represents Milton’s focus on making our community more attractive and competitive,” said Milton Mayor Gord Krantz.
“This exciting partnership will help us learn about ways to address climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.”
Through its new technology ZEV Clean Power, MTB will work for six months to convert a conventional 12-metre Milton Transit bus to battery electric power.
The Town of Milton is exploring the transition to a zero-emission transit bus system, building on climate change and sustainability work to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
“The transit industry around the world is starting to shift from diesel propulsion to cleaner sources of energy,” said Gara Hay, president of MTB Transit Solutions.
“We are thrilled to work with the Town of Milton on this Canadian first, and to demonstrate how transit systems can reduce their greenhouse gases.”
The pilot will help Milton Transit explore this route to an electric bus fleet by providing useful details on charging, maintenance, performance, cost, servicing and mitigating reliance on fossil fuels.
For riders, the electric bus will be more comfortable due to reduced noise and vibration and will eliminate any tailpipe emissions.
Each Milton Transit bus averages about 72,000 km a year; this conversion will potentially save about 51,260 kg of diesel emissions over six years.
The Town is also completing a Milton Transit Battery Electric Bus Feasibility Study and Transition Plan. This will provide a road map for the implementation of electric buses and charging infrastructure.
The project cost of $882,000 includes conversion and delivery of the vehicle, all vehicle components, charging infrastructure, warranty and training.
The bus is expected to hit the road in early 2024.
