First steps toward electrification: RTL rolls out first electric buses!
Longueuil, August 24, 2021 – The Réseau de transport de Longueuil (RTL) is taking a major step forward in its electrification plan with the introduction of its first fully electric buses, making it the first transit provider in Québec to put 100% electric, slow-charging midibuses on the road. These five small vehicles will operate in each of the cities in the Agglomération de Longueuil as a pilot project, free of charge as an incentive to users.
“This is something the RTL is very proud of and the culmination of a lot of hard work by different teams. In fact, these buses have been put through more than 75 hours of testing since we first took delivery of them. Their distinctive look will make them easy to spot in your neighbourhood! The routes have been designed based on user demand, to make it easier to get around within the Agglomération and to and from sports and recreation centres, stores, city halls, and hospitals. These vehicles will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at a time when it’s become crucially important to take action against climate change,” said Jonathan Tabarah, Chairman of the RTL Board of Directors.
“Electrification of public transit represents a real opportunity for Québec to position itself as the green hub of northeastern North America. In addition to helping us reach our targets in the fight against climate change, I’m convinced that citizens will be impressed by this project. I’m very proud of our government’s $2.5-million contribution toward purchasing these midibuses. I applaud all the partners who helped make this project possible,” said Chantal Rouleau, Minister for Transport and Minister Responsible for the Metropolis and the Montréal Region.
Here is a summary of the six routes:
• Brossard: QuartierDIX30, boulevard de Rome, and St-Laurent sector
• Boucherville: Vieux-Boucherville, city hall, and Promenades Montarville
• Longueuil: Hôpital Pierre-Boucher, the public market, and city hall
• Longueuil (on weekends): rue Saint-Charles toward the Longueuil terminal
• Saint-Lambert: Hôpital Charles-Le-Moyne and city hall
• Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville (on weekends): downtown toward Promenades St-Bruno
For details on schedules and routes, visit the RTL’s website.
A few facts about the midibuses:
• 5 fully electric midibuses
• 6 lines in service
• 22 seats per vehicle
• 30 feet long
• Accessible lines and vehicles equipped with a ramp and automatic wheelchair restraint system
• Autonomy of 215 kilometres
• Approximate full-power charge time of 2.5 hours
• Reduction in noise pollution
• Made by BYD (Build Your Dreams)
Under the RTL’s electrification plan, these buses will provide an opportunity for employees to become familiar with the new electric technology. According to the Québec government’s Sustainable Mobility Policy, 55% of city buses will be electric by 2030. The RTL plans to purchase its first 40-foot electric buses this year and convert to electric.
The RTL wishes to thank its employees for their outstanding work on this project, not to mention the healthcare institutions and organizations working with persons with disabilities for their participation in our ongoing accessibility tests.
This project is made possible by funding from the Québec government as part of the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund.
About the RTL
The Réseau de transport de Longueuil (RTL) is the main transit provider for individuals within the five cities that comprise the Agglomération de Longueuil.
The third-largest public transit organization in Québec, the RTL operates a network of 793 kilometres. With some 1,100 employees, the RTL is a major employer that contributes to the economic vitality of the region.
Ever receptive to its users, the RTL plays a key role in the lives of the people and the communities it serves by providing solutions that are efficient, innovative, and adapted to the evolving needs
of its clientele. Improving quality of life for the citizens of the Agglomération de Longueuil is a top priority for the RTL.