In an era defined by climate urgency and urban congestion, Canada's federal government is doubling down on its promise to electrify public transit across the country. Backed by a $2.75 billion Zero Emission Transit Fund launched in 2021 and extended through 2027, this initiative aims to cut transportation-sector emissions — which account for roughly 25% of Canada’s greenhouse gases — while revitalizing city infrastructure.
The program funds electric buses, charging infrastructure, workforce training, and planning projects across municipalities. As of 2025, over 5,000 zero-emission buses have been committed for delivery, with hundreds already operating in cities like Montreal, Edmonton, and Brampton.
Cities Leading the Transition
Montreal’s STM has committed to a fully electric bus fleet by 2040, with over 100 buses already on the road. Meanwhile, Edmonton’s Transit Service operates one of the largest electric bus fleets in North America — a model closely watched by other Canadian cities.
Brampton, Ottawa, and Vancouver are piloting smart-charging infrastructure and depot electrification projects. These testbeds are critical to understanding energy demand patterns, route optimization, and vehicle maintenance in diverse climates.
“We’re not just buying buses — we’re rethinking how we move people,”
Infrastructure and Grid Readiness
One of the largest barriers to fleet electrification is infrastructure. Unlike diesel vehicles, electric buses require complex charging systems, energy storage, and in some cases, grid upgrades. In Toronto, the TTC is retrofitting its 29 bus garages to accommodate electric vehicle charging — a project expected to cost over $500 million.
Hydro utilities are also playing a critical role. In British Columbia, BC Hydro is partnering with municipalities to ensure power availability matches fleet expansion. These projects require long lead times, coordination with provincial regulators, and integration with smart grid systems.
Equity and Access in the EV Shift
Electrification also intersects with equity. Lower-income communities and Indigenous reserves often have fewer transit options and are more exposed to air pollution from traffic. The federal program prioritizes projects that address transportation equity, with dedicated funding envelopes for Indigenous transit partnerships and rural electrification.
In Nunavut, a pilot electric shuttle is being tested in Iqaluit — the first of its kind in the North. Elsewhere, Nova Scotia’s Mi’kmaw communities are exploring solar-powered bus shelters and electrified vanpool systems for remote healthcare access.
Cleaner Air
Reduced NOx and particulate matter emissions improve public health, especially in dense urban cores.
Lower Lifecycle Costs
Electric buses cost more upfront but have lower fuel and maintenance costs over time.
Climate Alignment
Public transport electrification is critical to reaching Canada's 2030 and 2050 climate goals.
Private Sector and Innovation
Canadian companies are stepping up to support the transition. Quebec-based Lion Electric is manufacturing electric buses for Canadian and U.S. markets, while Vancouver’s GreenPower Motor Company is supplying mid-size EVs to municipalities.
Emerging technologies include hydrogen fuel cell buses, dynamic charging (where vehicles charge along the route), and AI-based route planning that accounts for real-time traffic, weather, and energy efficiency.
“Canada has the talent, the tech, and the policy support. Now we need sustained investment and political courage,”
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
The federal government aims for 5,000 new electric buses on Canadian roads by 2026 — a steep climb that requires cooperation between municipalities, utilities, manufacturers, and transit workers. Success will depend on how well regions coordinate, plan, and share lessons.
In the long term, electrification is seen not just as a carbon-cutting tool, but as a lever for economic renewal. It means jobs in clean tech, more resilient urban infrastructure, and a transportation system that meets the challenges of a warming world.