Electric buses are gradually being put into service on STL routes as 2021 gets underway. Keep an eye out! You’ll start seeing them rolling along Laval streets.

The pandemic may have slowed the delivery of our electric buses, but the plan to transition to a fully electric bus fleet is still on course.  The STL electric buses ordered in 2018 have arrived and are gradually being rolled into service on Laval streets.

Network-wide
The electric buses will be randomly assigned to residential and commercial areas across the city for the purpose of introducing the improved transit mode to as many Laval commuters as possible. Regardless of whether you’re a morning, midday or evening transit user, the next bus that pulls up to your stop might be an electric one.

Rapidly-evolving technology
STL electric buses have a range of approximately 250 km and charge overnight at the garage. A full battery charge requires about 3.5 hours. These buses house the same amount of seats as their hybrid counterparts. The most noticeable improvements for users will be a quieter bus and a quieter ride, and fewer vibrations on board, all of which add up to a more pleasant commute.

Better for the planet
Each electric bus cuts annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 70 to 80 tons. All STL buses will be electric by 2040, which will help fight climate change. Public transit also reduces road congestion, meaning even fewer GHGs in Laval. By comparison, the average Quebecer generates around 10 tons of GHGs a year.

New bus, new garage!
Electric buses require facilities and maintenance methods that differ from other bus types. As the STL builds towards its electric network, plans are currently afoot to expand and modernize its garage. It should be ready as of 2025.