A report compiled by a joint-task force was recently released detailing the electrification of transit and the potential to implement electric transit buses in the City of Winnipeg. 
The task force consisted of representatives from:

• Province of Manitoba
• City of Winnipeg
• Manitoba Hydro
• New Flyer Industries Canada ULC
• Red River College

Red River College’s role with electric vehicle technology over the years allowed the College to offer expertise on such a unique and important project for the Province of Manitoba.
The Province of Manitoba and City of Winnipeg co-chaired the task force and facilited the task force to focus on a variety of areas including:

1. Assess the economic and technical viability of electric transit bus technology for application in Winnipeg;
2. Develop a cost benefit analysis for electric transit bus technology as compared to conventional diesel-based technology within Winnipeg, including emission profiles and environmental attributes (e.g. carbon pricing implications);
3. Identify infrastructure requirements for operating electric transit bus technology in Winnipeg;
4. Evaluate the availability and commercial status of electric transit bus technology into the near future, and anticipated long-term maintenance/warranty considerations;
5. Identify longer-term options for electrification of transit, if applicable; and
6. Prepare a report that captures the above assessments, including a presentation to City of Winnipeg and Province of Manitoba.

The Task Force continues to identify emerging trends in the industry and assess new opportunities for transit electrification.
The Task Force report is now available for download from the Province of Manitoba here  (PDF size 2.06 MB).