Brampton, Ontario, Canada’s Züm, unveiled the new articulated buses for its bus rapid transit (BRT) service.

The new Xcelsior model 60-foot articulated vehicles chosen for Brampton Züm are manufactured by New Flyer Industries in Winnipeg. The BRT vehicles feature clean hybrid diesel-electric technology and boast a 10% to 15% fuel reduction compared to conventional diesel vehicles. They are lightweight, quiet and have unique theatre-style seating in the articulated joint, with two rear exit doors. The new vehicles can carry about 40% more passengers than 40-foot vehicles.

The $285-million Brampton Züm project is being delivered in two phases. In addition to the purchase of BRT vehicles, Phase I includes construction of BRT lines on Queen Street completed in September 2010, Main Street completed in September 2011, and Steeles Avenue scheduled for completion in fall 2012. Phase II of the project will expand service along Queen Street and Steeles Avenue and introduce service on Bovaird Drive.

The Government of Canada has committed up to $95 million for both phases of Brampton’s plan. The Province of Ontario has already provided its contribution of $95 million and the City of Brampton will fund the remaining $95 million in total project costs.

Completion is expected by the end of 2017.