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First electric transit bus lands in Victoria, open to public early next year

The EV has landed; Demo bus provides learning opportunities with 10 more on the way
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Victoria will get the province’s first electric bus to service transit routes. (Courtesy of BC Transit)

While BC Transit’s first 10 electric buses join the Victoria Regional Transit system next summer, a demo edition will hit local streets in the coming months.

BC Transit aims to have an electric fleet by 2040, replacing 500 heavy-duty buses in the next 10 years.

The $20-million contract to build and deliver the buses was awarded to Proterra Operating Company Inc. in May. The contract allows BC Transit the option of purchasing more heavy-duty electric buses, charging equipment and supporting services in the future.

RELATED: B.C.’s first electric transit bus expected to arrive in Greater Victoria this fall

The demo bus from Proterra will provide valuable learning opportunities, helping BC Transit get ready to put its first 10 electric buses on the road next year, according to a news release.

Transit plans to release more information on where and when people can see the demonstration bus in early 2023.

READ ALSLO: Four new, all-electric buses join the Greater Victoria School District fleet


 

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