TTC takes delivery of first hybrid electric bus
The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) recently took delivery of its newest-generation hybrid electric bus. The bus is the first of 55 hybrid buses to be delivered by the end of 2018 with an additional 200 hybrid buses and 60 all-electric eBuses to be delivered by the end of 2019.
These ecofriendly vehicles incorporate hybrid technology and run off power generated onboard that is fueled by diesel engines. TTC explained that the hybrid bus is as close as possible to being a fully electric bus as it is driven by an electric motor powered by on-board battery system. The hybrid bus has an on-board generator that produces electricity when needed and all on-board systems, such as doors, HVAC and power steering, are fully electrified. TTC notes that though the vehicles are still using fuel to produce energy, they consume up to 30 percent less than other non-hybrid buses.
TTC took delivery of the hybrid bus Nov. 20. It is undergoing testing, commission and training of operators and is expected to go into service by mid-December.
“Our new hybrid buses are part of the TTC’s large commitment to greening our fleet and we look forward to the introduction of our first zero emissions eBus early next year,” said TTC Chair Josh Colle. The government of Canada and city of Toronto are investing are investing C$370 million in these buses as part of the federal Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (PTIF). The TTC is using PTIF for its green bus procurement program as part of the city’s mandate to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050. TTC is working with the city and federal government to reduce its carbon footprint and operate an entirely zero emissions fleet by 2040.
“With the introduction of these new hybrid buses, the TTC will provide its customers with a cleaner and greener ride while saving money on fuel costs," said Toronto Mayor John Tory. "These new buses are another example of the importance of governments working together to make investments in our transit system."
The hybrid bus was supplied by Nova Bus and is part of a larger order of 325 buses awarded to Nova Bus by TTC in 2017. The electric motors powered by on-board battery system were both produced by BAE Systems.
“We are very proud of this partnership which allows us to equip the TTC with the next generation Hybrid Electric buses and thus to contribute to the City of Toronto’s efforts to reduce its emissions,” said Martin Larose, vice president and general manager of Nova Bus.
Mischa Wanek-Libman | Group Editorial Director
Mischa Wanek-Libman is director of communications with Transdev North America. She has more than 20 years of experience working in the transportation industry covering construction projects, engineering challenges, transit and rail operations and best practices.
Wanek-Libman has held top editorial positions at freight rail and public transportation business-to-business publications including as editor-in-chief and editorial director of Mass Transit from 2018-2024. She has been recognized for editorial excellence through her individual work, as well as for collaborative content.
She is an active member of the American Public Transportation Association's Marketing and Communications Committee and served 14 years as a Board Observer on the National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC) Board of Directors.
She is a graduate of Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communication.
