Barrie Transit is turning the engine on for a one-year pilot project featuring electric buses this summer.
Mayor Alex Nuttall, Coun. Sergio Morales, Coun. Amy Courser and other dignitaries gathered on Tuesday, April 15, for the unveiling of two brand-new fully electric public transit buses.
“I’m pleased to introduce Barrie Transit’s first electric bus, marking a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainability and innovation,” said Nuttall.
“Thanks to the Zero Emission Transit Fund, we will have two new e-buses operating in
Barrie. These buses will not only reduce our carbon footprint, but they will also enhance
the quality of life for our residents by providing a quieter and cleaner way to get people
around Barrie.”
Morales, a supporter of citywide electrification, hopes the pilot will highlight the benefits
of electric buses.
“These buses are exactly what the lungs of children deserve – public transportation, without any of the heavy tailpipe emissions we’re used to seeing on a bus,” he said.
“Smooth driving that reduces motion sickness, reliable charging at the city’s facility, and
reduced maintenance costs for fleet vehicles that have a predictable daily route. These
are the exact benefits I envisioned when I began advocating for the electrification of all
city fleet in 2016.”
Nuttall said he is looking forward to the pilot project data to help decide next steps.
“I think there is a lot of good that could come from the data,” he said. “I’m sure that information will be great for our city bus service and for our entire fleet of vehicles as we deal with parks, send out street sweepers, those types of things.”
Built by Canadian manufacturer, New Flyer, the two buses are powered by a 520kWh battery with each bus can travel up to 408 km on one charge.
The $3.35 million project was co-funded by the City of Barrie and a $1.65 million federal
grant from the Zero Emission Transit Fund. Charging stations were installed by
PowerON.
The buses also include improved accessibility, with automatic wheelchair and scooter
securement systems.
