BC Transit is introducing 104 new buses to deliver a robust response to growing transportation demands in communities across the province.
The new buses vary in size and capacity in order to best meet the unique needs of their respective transit communities. Purchase orders have been issued for:
- 46 New Flyer Xcelsior buses: heavy-duty, Compressed Natural Gas powered vehicles.
- 17 Grande West Vicinity buses: medium-duty, diesel powered vehicles.
- 30 Nova Bus LFS buses: heavy-duty vehicles.
- 11 ARBOC buses: light-duty vehicles on a GM chassis.
“The Government of Canada recognizes how important safe and efficient transit infrastructure is to growing the middle class and getting Canadians to work and back home to their families at the end of the day,” said the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, minister of infrastructure and communities. “We are committed to supporting improvements to public transit systems, such as these new buses, to help municipalities across British Columbia deliver safe, modern and efficient public transit services to residents.”
“The addition of 104 new buses represents a significant investment in providing dependable and modern transit solutions throughout our province,” said Todd Stone, minister of transportation and infrastructure. “It represents our shared commitment to delivering sustainable, affordable and reliable transportation options for all British Columbians.”
The purchase of 71 of the 104 new buses was made possible through joint funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund.
BC Transit already boasts a diverse fleet of over 1000 buses, which serve more than 1.6 million British Columbians in 130 communities outside Metro Vancouver. Customer accommodation per vehicle ranges from 102 passengers in the largest double decker bus, to 12 passengers in the smallest shuttle bus.
“It is always exciting to be introducing new buses into our communities. Not only are these buses cleaner and quieter than older buses, their modern design and technology enhancements provide customers and communities with new innovation and curb appeal,” said Aaron Lamb BC Transit vice-president, asset management.
The buses will undergo a phased introduction in communities across the province throughout 2017. BC Transit continues to order buses for expansion and replacement needs. More information will be available once the purchases are confirmed.
