Highlights from the May 2023 Transit Executive Committee Meeting

Whitby, Ontario – On May 3, members of the Durham Region Transit Executive Committee (TEC) met to discuss various Durham Region Transit (DRT) initiatives and updates. Details and highlights include:

• Key features of electric buses: DRT is planning its transition to a zero-emission transit fleet, a key part of the E-Mission Zero program, which supports the Region’s Corporate Climate Change Action Plan. In April, DRT hosted project partners to celebrate financial agreements in support of its electric bus pilot and gradual transition to a fully electric fleet by 2037. Listed below are features of battery electric buses (BEBs):
  • Cost: The purchase price of a 12-metre electric transit bus currently ranges between $1.4 million to $1.6 million, or approximately twice the cost of an equivalent internal combustion engine (ICE) diesel bus. The overall cost of electric transit buses is expected to reduce over time.
  • Range: BEBs currently operate for up to 350 kilometres on a full charge. Range is affected by a variety of factors, including battery size, weather, operational impacts, and bus duty cycle.
  • Efficiency: BEBs are two and a half to five times more efficient than an equivalent ICE diesel bus, resulting in a lower operating cost per kilometre.
  • Charge time: BEBs require between three to four hours to fully charge, depending on the battery size and charging equipment.
  • Maintenance costs: BEBs contain few mechanical parts, which have been shown to reduce maintenance costs by approximately 20 to 30 per cent, compared to an equivalent ICE diesel bus.
  • Noise: BEBs deliver a quieter ride for customers.
• Public Information Centres (PICs) 2023: DRT was pleased to host a series of nine in-person PICs where staff heard from 388 customers. The feedback was positive, with many customers noting that 24-hour service in urban areas and the expansion of On Demand service have improved their travel significantly. Some key themes that came up during the sessions include:
  • Residents are interested in learning about On Demand service
  • Some customers want to know more about the Simcoe Street Rapid Transit Project 

Quotes

“To ensure the best transit system for Durham Region in the future, we need to meet the needs of customers, ensuring innovation, access and affordability for all transit riders. Engaging with the public is essential to meeting those diverse needs, and I am pleased that members of our communities were eager to learn more and engage with DRT staff at this year’s Public Information Centres.” 

-        John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer

“Transitioning to a battery electric bus fleet is a significant milestone for DRT, aligning with the Region’s Corporate Climate Change Action Plan and commitment to achieving its emission targets for a sustainable future. I look forward to the forward movement DRT is making towards a zero-emission fleet.”

-      Marilyn Crawford, Deputy Mayor for the Town of Ajax and Chair of the Transit Executive Committee for Durham Regional Council

“Thank you to everyone who participated in our annual PICs, and to everyone who provides their feedback throughout the year. Engagement and feedback is important for our team to gain meaningful insight. The feedback we receive is invaluable as we continue to focus on service excellence for our customers and advance the transit network over the next ten years.”

-        Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit

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For more information, please contact Corporate Communications.