In a global first, Brampton has approved the purchase of battery-electric buses and high powered overhead on-street electric charging stations that will be implemented as part of a partnership trial and demonstration of the technology.

Brampton will be partnering with the Canadian Urban Transit Research and Innovation Consortium (CUTRIC), suppliers of the fully electric buses Nova Bus and New Flyer, and charging station manufacturers ABB and Siemens. The Pan-Ontario Electric Bus Demonstration & Integration Trial is a unique partnership model that is the first of its kind.

The new battery-electric buses use zero fossil fuels, and will be launched on two existing routes in Brampton, routes 23 Sandalwood and 26 Mount Pleasant.

The fully electric buses are expected to be in operation by Spring 2018. Total capital costs for the project are anticipated at $13.6 million, offset by funding from other levels of government.

Nova Bus is a leading provider of sustainable transit solutions in North America. Its portfolio includes hybrid electric buses, high-capacity vehicles and integrated intelligent transportation systems.

ABB and Siemens will supply and install the opportunity charging systems which utilize an overhead, upside-down charging system for e-buses. The charging stations will be located at the Mount Pleasant Village terminal, the Queen Street/ Highway 50 Züm station, and the Sandalwood Transit Facility.

According to the City of Brampton, the investment demonstrates the City’s commitment to a connected, innovative, inclusive and bold Brampton. The partnership will result in a better understanding of battery electric bus technology and will prepare Brampton Transit to meet the future growth demands of the City, reduce fuel costs and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

In a press release, Brampton Mayor Linda Jeffrey stated: “We are excited that Brampton is the host for the electric bus pilot project that is based on an innovative partnership model. This initiative demonstrates our world leading commitment to bringing strategic, future-ready transit solutions that are environmentally friendly and help move our people more efficiently.”

The new electric buses offer operational efficiencies through system-wide decreased fuel consumption, and a reduction of GHG emissions. Charging times with the new charging systems are 3-5 minutes to receive a full charge. Electricity is stored in large batteries located on top of the bus resulting in zero emissions and significant environmental benefits. Vehicle braking recharges energy back to the batteries.

With no engines being required for the bus to function, passengers can expect a smooth, silent ride.