Winnipeg Transit launched its first New Flyer 60-foot zero-emission bus (ZEB) into limited service.

The agency will be the first Canadian city with 60-foot battery-electric buses in its fleet. By the end of the year, there will be eight 60-foot ZEBs in full service, according to city officials.

Warm-Up Period

All ZEBs will be in limited service for their first 30 days of operation. This means they will only be on roads during the peak morning rush and early afternoon on weekdays. After 30 days, they will be ready for full-time service.

“With the arrival of Winnipeg’s first 60-foot zero-emission bus, our city is making transit history and leading the way in Canada’s shift to sustainable transportation,” said Ben Carr, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre. “This milestone marks an important step in reducing emissions, improving air quality, and making life better for Winnipeggers. We’re proud to support projects that help communities transition to a greener future.”

Winnipeg’s first order of 16 ZEBs has all arrived at its Fort Rouge and Brandon Garages. They include:

• Four 40-foot and four 60-foot fuel-cell battery-electric buses.

• Four 40-foot and four 60-foot battery-electric buses.

The agency said that its fuel-cell battery-electric buses recharge with hydrogen and can drive for up to 24 hours. Battery-electric buses recharge by connecting to a charger and can drive for 10 to 15 hours.

Every bus will complete in- and out-of-service testing, which will look at a variety of factors, including (but not limited to):

• Battery health

• Energy consumption

• Operating costs

Testing will also establish which zero-emission technology is most effective in Winnipeg's climate. All information gathered will determine future steps in electrification.

Winnipeg’s Transition to Zero

The Transition to Zero-Emission Bus Program is receiving $280.3 million in funding through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. 

Winnipeg Transit will use those funds to buy 90 ZEBs, as well as charging infrastructure. A second order of ZEBs — 24 in total — is expected to arrive in early 2026.