BC Transit hopes to add over 900 new buses to its fleet over the next three to five years.
Officials say BC Transit’s fleet acquisition strategy has several goals, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, replacing aging vehicles and expanding services.
The organization will purchase a variety of buses as BC Transit works toward a fully zero-emissions fleet.
“A mixture of bus propulsion and lower carbon fuel types will ensure that BC Transit has a reliable fleet that meets the growing demand for transit in the communities it serves,” said BC Transit.
Previously announced funding to BC Transit will be used to buy 141 electric buses, including 125 heavy-duty, 10 high-capacity (double-decker), and six light-duty vehicles.
“BC Transit also intends to procure approximately 105 heavy-duty hybrid buses. Hybrid buses will help more communities realize reductions in GHG emissions, achieve quieter operations on city streets, use less fuel, and experience electric technology while preparing for zero-emission vehicles,” said BC Transit.
The exact distribution of the new fleet acquisition strategy has not been announced, but transit networks in the Kootenays will likely get some new vehicles.
“If a vehicle is approaching that 10 to 13-year mark, it’s going to be due for replacement. If a community has a bus that’s within that range, then we would be looking at getting a new bus,” said Aaron Lamb, Vice President of Asset Management.
“The plan also covers our expansion for the next few years, and about 240 buses are going to support that.”
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