CALGARY- The bus of the future is helping Calgary Transit go green.
The new vehicles are fueled by compressed natural gas, making them quieter and better for the environment. While they cost $40,000 more than their diesel-fueled counterparts, the city expects to make up the difference quickly through fuel savings of $11,000 per year.
Get breaking National news
“Our fuel budget at Calgary Transit is about $27 million dollars, so as you can imagine if we can save a third of our fuel on an ongoing basis that is a worthwhile pursuit for us,” explains Russell Davies, transit fleet manager.
The buses have been introduced as part of a year-long trial run.
“This trial here is more or less a validation of the technology as much as anything else for us,” adds Davies.
Riders will also be happy to know that the new buses are air-conditioned-a first for Calgary Transit.
The city is so confident the buses will be a hit, that they’re already looking at ways to finance a new natural gas bus barn.
Comments
Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.