The Canadian Urban Transit Research & Innovation Consortium (CUTRIC) has published the sixth edition of its Canadian Zero Emissions Bus (ZEB) Database, providing an update on the transition to zero-emissions transit across the country.
The report, based on data collected from 60 transit agencies as of July 2025, indicates progress in electrification, with a greater number of agencies moving from planning to procurement and commissioning stages.
Key findings include:
The number of battery electric buses (BEBs) in service has increased by 42% compared with the previous edition, reflecting continued movement from earlier planning into operational deployment.
A total of 4,031 zero emissions buses are reported to be in transition nationwide. This represents a 30% decrease across all stages of transition, which the report attributes to uncertainty linked to tariffs and inflation affecting the value of government funding.
Quebec agencies lead with 1,544 BEBs at various stages of deployment, followed by Ontario (1,386), British Columbia (542), Alberta (326) and Nova Scotia (101).
A New Flyer electric bus
© CUTRIC
The report notes the role of federal programmes such as the Canadian Public Transit Fund and financing from the Canada Infrastructure Bank in supporting projects. It also underscores the importance of zero emissions transit vehicles in meeting Canada’s climate commitments, which include reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40–45% below 2005 levels by 2030.
Dr Josipa Petrunic, President and Chief Executive Officer of CUTRIC said:
Canada is at a critical juncture in its transition to zero emissions public transit. Transit agencies across Canada have made significant progress, but the road ahead demands long-term commitment and collaboration. By addressing infrastructure challenges, advancing supply chains, and tapping into the value of innovative technologies, the future of a decarbonised future is well within reach.
CUTRIC’s sixth edition of the Canadian ZEB Database emphasises that federal programs like the Canadian Public Transit Fund and financing from Canada Infrastructure Bank remain critical for advancing these complex projects going forward.
Transportation remains Canada’s second largest source of emissions, accounting for 22% of the total. The shift from private car use to zero-emission buses is identified as a key contributor to long-term reductions, particularly within the heavy-duty vehicle sector.
The Canadian ZEB Database forms part of CUTRIC’s Knowledge Series and tracks the number, type, stage and location of vehicles in transition across Canada. It also identifies challenges facing agencies, including infrastructure readiness and supply chain pressures.
The full report is available through CUTRIC’s website.
Tags
Products & Services