New hybrid electric buses have arrived at the TTC

The TTC has taken delivery of its newest-generation hybrid electric bus. The vehicle, which is currently undergoing testing, commissioning and training of operators, is expected to go into service in the next two weeks.

This bus is the first of 55 hybrid buses to be delivered by the end of 2018. Two-hundred more hybrid electric buses and 60 all-electric eBuses will be delivered by the end of 2019.

The Government of Canada and the City of Toronto are investing $370 million in these buses as part of the federal Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (PTIF). This fund is helping keep Torontonians moving through investments in the repair, modernization and expansion of the city’s transit and active transportation networks. In total, up to $1.8 billion is being invested in Toronto through PTIF, which was launched on August 23, 2016.

Today’s hybrid bus is as close as possible to being a fully electric bus as it is driven by an electric motor powered by on-board battery system. The only distinction between a hybrid and an all-electric bus is that the hybrid has an on-board generator that produces electricity when needed. Also, all on-board systems such as doors, HVAC, power steering etc. are now fully electrified.

The TTC is using PTIF for its green bus procurement program as part of the City of Toronto’s mandate to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 per cent by 2050. Together with the Government of Canada and the City of Toronto, the TTC is working to reduce its carbon footprint and operate an entirely zero emissions fleet by 2040.

“The Government of Canada is investing in efficient public transit systems to help reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality,” said Adam Vaughan, Member of Parliament for Spadina–Fort York, on behalf of the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “The TTC’s new hybrid buses will benefit transit users across Toronto by providing modern new buses, while helping improve air quality and protecting the environment.”

“Our new hybrid buses are part of the TTC’s large commitment to greening our fleet and we look forward to the introduction of our first zero emissions eBus early next year,” said TTC Chair Josh Colle.

“With the introduction of these new hybrid buses, the TTC will provide its customers with a cleaner and greener ride while saving money on fuel costs," said Mayor John Tory. "These new buses are another example of the importance of governments working together to make investments in our transit system."

These ecofriendly vehicles incorporate hybrid technology and run off power generated onboard that is fueled by diesel engines. Though the vehicles are still using fuel to produce energy, they consume up to 30 per cent less than other non-hybrid buses.

PTIF is the result of the Government of Canada and the City of Toronto collaborating for a greener future. This fund improves commutes, cuts air pollution, strengthens communities and grows the economy.

For more information on the TTC’s green initiatives, please visit ttc.ca/green.