Zero-Emission Bus

Operator stands on step of an open door on a green-and-red 40-foot electric bus

Our plan to purchase only Zero-Emission Buses (ZEBs) going forward was approved by City Council on June 23, 2021.

This is an exciting change for OC Transpo and the City of Ottawa, as we transition from a 100% diesel bus fleet to one that is zero-emission. In coming years, OC Transpo will be monitoring new developments in bus technology. We continue to provide the most cost effective, comfortable, and clean energy transit solutions for our customers.

Transitioning to a zero-emission bus fleet will have the following benefits:

  • No pollution, no greenhouse gas emissions from new buses
  • Reduced operating costs
  • Lower noise pollution on city streets

Electric plug icon with OC Transpo logo

The first four ZEBs are now in service. Following months of testing and training, we're excited to welcome you aboard.

These 40-foot buses will operate at all times of the day and on several trips and routes to gain experience under a variety of conditions. They will be recognizable by their red and green appearance that promotes their role in reducing City emissions.

Side view of a green-and-red New Flyer XE40 electric bus

The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) has invested $380 million with the City of Ottawa. This is to help finance up to 446 more ZEBs through 2027. 

The CIB’s loan will go towards upfront costs of the battery-electric buses. Repayment is expected to be covered through the reduced operating costs over the life of the ZEBs as compared to diesel buses.

Currently, average diesel use per bus is about 35,000 litres each year. The 450 ZEBs are estimated to save approximately 38,500 tonnes of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions each year.

Energy and charging equipment will be supplied by Hydro Ottawa through a separate agreement with the City.

Thanks in part to CIB funding, the aim is to add 26 more in 2023, and another 420 by the end of 2027. With the gradual phase-out of diesel buses as they reach the end of their life cycle, OC Transpo could achieve a fully zero-emission bus fleet by 2036.

This move plays an important part in the City's Climate Change Master Plan and goal to reduce the GHG emissions of City operations by 100% by 2040.