Waterloo Region residents can expect to see the first of several electric buses rolling down the streets next year as Grand River Transit (GRT) selects Nova Bus as its first electric bus provider.
GRT has ordered an initial six electric buses from Nova Bus, a member of the Volvo Group and a leading North American transit bus manufacturer. The first buses are expected to arrive in spring 2023 with five additional electric buses to follow in 2024.
This initiative is part of the Region’s plan to electrify its bus fleet, provide sustainable transit service, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“This is a major step forward in our plans to provide a zero-emission transit system for our community,” said Tom Galloway, Region of Waterloo Councillor and Chair of the Planning and Works Commission. “We are committed to exploring new technologies and solutions to contribute to the Region’s climate change goals. We excitedly await the delivery of our first fully electric buses from Nova Bus and the opportunity to introduce our transit customers to the future of sustainable transit.”
Long driving range, reduced maintenance costs
The Nova Bus LFSe+ provides long driving range, reduced maintenance costs and emits no greenhouse gas emissions. It is designed to meet the sustainability needs of transit authorities, support them in eliminating greenhouse gas emissions and help them with achieving zero-emission targets, without compromising on the reliability and durability of their bus fleets.
“We have always been very proud of providing robust and high-quality buses to transit authorities across Canada, and it’s an honour to be accompanying existing clients such as GRT in their transition with this first purchase of electric buses,” stated Martin Larose, President of Nova Bus. “We strongly believe our future lies in providing sustainable solutions for communities to enjoy zero-emission transit, which will ultimately improve quality of life for everyone.”
The electric buses are part of a two-year pilot project and will be charged at the new 305,000-sq.-ft. Northfield Drive Maintenance Facility in Waterloo is scheduled to start operations in September.
