Winnipeg’s New Flyer Industries plugging in to Transit fleet upgrade

Winnipeg-based New Flyer Industries is willing to be a true partner in converting Winnipeg Transit’s fleet to electric buses.

In a Global News Exclusive, President and CEO Paul Soubry said they want to explore financing options to help the cash-strapped city and provincial governments.

READ MORE: Winnipeg Transit rates on the rise, routes possibly cut: City of Winnipeg budget

“We need to be far more active and progressive in rethinking on how we can be a catalyst for changing the way it works,” Soubry said.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "We need to be far more active and progressive in rethinking on how we can be a catalyst for changing the way it works," Soubry said.

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“Whether it means we get into turn-key operations, or whether there is a story around financing or changing the way government pays, or leasing batteries and buying the buses… but I think the game is going to be different and we are going to be active.”

LISTEN: Paul Soubry from New Flyer spoke on CJOB Thursday

Five New Flyer electric buses are on the road in Winnipeg right now. All have passed cold-weather testing.  There are 623 buses in the Winnipeg Transit fleet.

READ MORE: City should look to add 12-20 electric buses: report

Soubry said he’s talking with all three levels of government and so far he’s had a positive response.