On February 24, the Quebec company Letenda presented its new generation of zero-emission city buses, the Electrip.
According to the Longueuil-based company’s presentation, this electrically-powered bus was specifically designed to meet Canadian winter conditions. The first model, named Electrip, is entirely developed in Quebec. The market launch is planned for 2023.
Nicolas Letendre, President and CEO of Letenda, explained that the vehicle was the result of six years of research and effort. “This achievement was made possible thanks to an experienced team including world leaders in electric vehicle technologies and Quebec manufacturers to develop and market an innovative bus. The Electrip is perfectly suited for transportation companies wishing to reduce their environmental impact and optimize their operations while moving towards sustainable mobility.”
This new vehicle, according to the company, is complementary to the existing offer of electric vehicles intended for public transportation by its dimensions and its modular design mainly made of aluminum, inspired by the aeronautical industry. The nine-metre, ultralight, long-range intermediate bus will, depending on the configuration chosen, accommodate up to 45 people, including 24 seated. It incorporates the latest intelligent and autonomous vehicle technologies.
The energy reserve is based on Cummins Li-Ion NMC modules for a range of over 250 kilometres. Recharging is completed in two hours on a 150 kW DC power supply.
Government support
“As we work to accelerate our green economic transformation, our government is proud to support companies like Letenda that are actively engaged in building a clean growth economy, including investments in sustainable public transit and carbon neutral vehicles. This project is a great example of how, on a national scale, innovation, ingenuity and collaboration can stimulate our economy and foster a real transition to a greener, more sustainable future,” explained Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, in a video testimonial.
His Quebec colleague Pierre Fitzgibbon added: “With the launch of its zero-emission city bus, Letenda is demonstrating that in Quebec, we have all the expertise needed to make a name for ourselves in the commercial electric transportation sector.
As a partner in the project, Rio Tinto has supported the Quebec company from the very beginning. “We are proud to support the development of a new generation of zero-emission aluminum transit buses that will help reduce the environmental footprint of public transportation,” said Sébastien Ross, Executive Director of Atlantic Operations for Rio Tinto Aluminium.
