Ontario launching electric vehicle GO buses

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Ontario Construction News staff writer

The Ontario government is bringing two new fully electric zero-emission GO buses into service for the first time as part of its plan to support electric vehicles across the Greater Golden Horseshoe.

“The launch of these electric buses marks a significant milestone in our government’s plan to be a global leader in the electric vehicle revolution,” said Premier Doug Ford. “We’re building a strong electric vehicle supply chain, securing game changing investments in electric vehicles and battery manufacturing, and getting more electric vehicles on the road. The future is electric and we’re leading the charge.”

Starting May 15, commuters on GO bus routes 19 (Mississauga/North York), 27 (Milton/North York), 92 (Oshawa/Yorkdale) and 96B (Oshawa/Finch Express) can travel on the zero-emission buses identifiable by their unique exterior featuring a lightning bolt.

“These electric vehicle buses are an exciting new transportation option, bolstering the presence of zero-emission technology in Ontario,” said Caroline Mulroney, minister of transportation.

New electric GO buses have been in the testing phase without passengers since December 2021. The province will continue to consider feedback to guide potential future expansion of the program and our Made-In-Ontario strategy to procure electric vehicles and low-carbon equipment.

The results of the initial testing phase were considered when routes were selected for revenue service, to ensure the buses return to the garage with 20 per cent battery capacity. Testing has shown that these buses can travel about 225 kilometres in colder temperatures and about 300 kilometres in warmer temperatures without needing a charge.

Each bus is powered by nine batteries and can be fully charged in approximately three to four hours. Buses will be charged at the Streetsville (in Mississauga) and Steeprock (in North York) GO bus garages.

“As Ontario launches fully electric GO bus service, riders are going to enjoy a quieter ride, powered by our world-class clean electricity grid,” said Todd Smith, minister of energy. “As a global leader in the electric vehicle revolution, this new option represents another step in our work to support electric vehicles, reduce emissions and expand clean, green travel options.”

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