Toronto’s new battery-electric buses to run on BAE’s drive systems

BAE Systems is providing 541 electric power and propulsion systems to Toronto’s new zero-emission fleet of buses. (Photo: BAE Systems)

BAE Systems, which provides heavy-duty electric propulsion technology, has agreed to supply up to 541 Gen3 electric drive systems to power the Toronto Transit Commission’s (TTC) new fleet of battery-electric, zero-emission buses.

Though the TTC has used BAE Systems electric propulsion technology in more than 1000 hybrid-electric buses since 2006, the company’s latest Gen3 offering improves on the previous iterations.

The TTC aims to transition to a zero-emissions fleet by 2040.

“Delivering leading-edge technology to help Toronto realize its green transit initiatives is a shared vision for BAE Systems and the TTC,” said Bob Lamanna, vice president and general manager of Power & Propulsion Solutions at BAE Systems. “The TTC has consistently embraced sustainable transportation, and our systems will help make our vision a reality through reliable, efficient operation.”

The Gen3 system features an electric motor and power electronics to create a clean, integrated power management solution for the buses. BAE Systems uses materials such as silicon carbide to increase power density, electrical efficiency and the distance buses can travel on a single charge.

The company, which has offices in New York and the U.K., said the system’s compact design allows for reduced size and weight.

Gen3’s modular architecture, also used for hybrid buses, makes it easier for transit agencies to transition to all-electric operation. The system also requires fewer components and connections, which contributes to reduced operational costs and maintenance requirements to maximize fleet productivity, BAE Systems said.