A new transit planning project has launched to examine the operational performance of battery electric buses used by public transport agencies across Canada. This follows a joint investment of more than 1.2 million CAD from government and industry partners.
The announcement was made in Montreal on 19 December 2025 by representatives of the federal government, the Canadian Urban Transit Research & Innovation Consortium (CUTRIC), and the Association de l’industrie électrique du Québec (AIEQ).
The funding will support a programme of research, data analysis, and performance assessment focused on the deployment of battery electric buses in Canadian transit fleets.
The project will gather and analyse real-world data from participating transit agencies, with a view to producing practical tools and guidance for organisations planning a transition away from diesel vehicles. Areas of study include battery degradation over time, charging efficiency, and the performance of diesel-to-electric powertrain conversions.
According to the project partners, the findings are intended to help transit agencies make informed decisions about cleaner propulsion technologies, while supporting broader efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from public transport. Nine transit agencies and municipalities have already agreed to contribute data to the study, with further participants expected to join as the work progresses.
Josipa Petrunić, President and CEO of the Canadian Urban Transit Research & Innovation Consortium said:Through this project, transit agencies across Canada are gaining the evidence and insights they need to plan their transition to zero emissions fleets with confidence. By working together and sharing real-world performance data, we're ensuring that communities of all sizes, from coast to coast, have the tools to electrify transit in ways that are reliable, affordable and sustainable for the long term.
The federal government is contributing 990,246 CAD through the Zero Emission Transit Fund, while CUTRIC members are providing a further 247,562 CAD. The initiative forms part of a wider programme to support planning and readiness for zero-emission bus fleets across Canada.
The Zero Emission Transit Fund sits within the Canada Public Transit Fund, which provides long-term funding for local transit priorities, including integrated planning, improved access to public transport and the development of lower-emission transport systems. Through a separate agreement with CUTRIC, the federal government is investing 10 million CAD over five years to help transit operators prepare for the transition to zero-emission buses.
Results from the study will be shared with participating organisations and industry stakeholders, including transit operators in Québec, to inform future planning and investment decisions.
The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada said:This project is a prime example of how strong collaboration towards a common goal can lead to innovation and growth in our communities. By supporting comprehensive planning today, we're laying the groundwork for future projects that will create jobs, grow the economy, and protect our environment for generations to come.
