Photo: Milton Transit
Milton Transit has taken a major leap into the future of sustainable transportation with the launch of Canada’s first mid-life diesel-to-electric converted bus.
The 12-metre vehicle, wrapped in a fresh, sustainability-themed design, officially entered service this week on Route 1 from the Milton GO Station.
“It’s very exciting to launch our new, converted battery-electric bus into service,” notes Mayor Gord Krantz. “This is a big step for the Town of Milton as we explore modern technologies that move us closer to our sustainability goals.”
The converted bus is a product of a unique collaboration between the Town of Milton and Milton-based MTB Transit Solutions. As a one-of-a-kind Canadian pilot, the electric bus will operate roughly five hours each weekday, helping the town collect real-world data on how factors like passenger loads, traffic conditions, and weather impact battery performance.
“This is a key step for the Town,” adds Kristene Scott, Commissioner of Corporate Services. “It allows us to learn about the operation and maintenance of a converted electric bus and will help guide future transit investments to better serve Milton residents with a greener fleet.”
During the Downtown Milton SummerFest in June, FM 101 Milton had the chance to step inside the bus and look around. Speaking with Tom Glover of MTB Transit Solutions, he was able to provide some details before it officially hit the road.
Inside and out, the bus stands out from the rest. Riders will experience a smoother, quieter ride thanks to the vehicle’s electric powertrain, which runs with minimal noise and produces zero tailpipe emissions.
The project highlights the innovation happening right in Milton’s backyard.
“As the world embraces cleaner sources of energy, this bus is a made-in-Milton solution that shows us what’s possible through local innovation and teamwork,” says Gara Hay, President of MTB Transit Solutions. “Thank you to everyone involved in bringing this project to life.”
Milton Transit will continue to monitor the pilot bus as it works toward a long-term plan for a fully electrified fleet – an important part of the community’s broader sustainability goals.
If you have a news tip or story idea, you can now send us a heads up via email at:
- News1013@LocalRadio.ca (Milton)
- News1015@LocalRadio.ca (Orangeville)
- News92@LocalRadio.ca (South Simcoe)
- Rick.Sargent@LocalRadio.ca (Bolton)
If you’d like to get ahold of me personally, shoot me a message at Cameron.Wilkinson@LocalRadio.ca. We’re in the business of content creation, so no idea is a bad idea.
