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News release

Town Council and local media got a first look at Canada’s first mid-life diesel-to-electric bus conversion. They received a project update and took the freshly wrapped electric bus for its first ride, as the bus prepares for road testing and high-voltage training.

The Town of Milton is working with Milton-based MTB Transit Solutions on this innovative conversion project.

As Milton Transit explores electrifying its bus fleet, this pilot will provide useful details on charging, maintenance, performance, and cost related to the conversion process. Milton is the first municipality in Canada to pilot mid-life, diesel-to-battery-electric conversion technology on a transit bus.

Once in service, the 12-metre electric bus will eliminate tailpipe emissions and offer passengers reduced noise and vibration to make their experience more comfortable.

Below are some project highlights shared at the unveiling.

Design:

  • Milton collaborated with Turbo Studio to create a clean, youthful, and modern look that aligns with Milton Transit’s branding. The design features solid colours near the wheels to maintain seamless design in case of repairs.

Current work:

  • The bus will begin road testing in April to fine-tune features and procedures such as regenerative braking, battery performance, hill holds, passenger loading, route patterns, and acceleration. This will help Milton Transit understand and optimize the schedule when the bus enters in to regular service.

Next steps:

  • MTB will train bus drivers on the new electric bus.
  • MTB will provide high-voltage training for mechanics and first responders.
  • MTB will conduct warm-weather testing and fine-tune the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.
  • The Town and MTB will prepare the bus to enter service in summer 2025.

Quotes

“We are celebrating a milestone for a project that shows how we work with local partners and innovate to better serve the people of Milton. Transit will become increasingly important in Milton’s future. Electrification is one way to make it even more sustainable.”

- Gord Krantz
Mayor, Town of Milton

“As a Town, we want to make the best decisions possible as we increase transit investments to meet the needs of Milton residents. This pilot is helping us learn about diesel-to-electric conversion as one route to a greener bus fleet.”

- Kristene Scott
Commissioner, Corporate Services

“This bus is a leading example of how we can shift transit vehicles from diesel power to a cleaner source of energy. We are happy to continue our pioneering work with the Town on this Canadian first.”

- Gara Hay
President, MTB Transit Solutions

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For media inquiries, please contact: 

Rob Faulkner
Senior Advisor, Public Relations
Email Communications Staff