TransLink's new trolleybus arrives with air conditioning and 20-kilometre off-wire range
The first of 275 ordered buses features a redesigned interior, larger windows, illuminated Braille buttons, and an onboard battery allowing travel without overhead wires.
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Metro Vancouver's new trolleybus fleet is arriving, and it's a significant upgrade from the current aging stock. TransLink's latest 40-foot trolleybus is undergoing road tests across the region's trolley network ahead of service entry in September.
The biggest improvement is an onboard battery that recharges while the bus is in motion, allowing it to travel up to 20 kilometres without overhead wires. That's a dramatic jump from the current fleet, which can only travel a few hundred metres off-wire to navigate temporary obstructions. TransLink says this opens the possibility for new routes and route changes in the future.
The interior has been completely redesigned. The new buses feature larger windows, low floors across the entire bus, a third rear exit door, illuminated Braille-embossed stop buttons (replacing the traditional yellow pull cord), and clearly marked red priority seating. The buses also include air conditioning — a first for TransLink's trolleybus fleet — making for a cool, climate-controlled ride for passengers and operators during summer heat.
Bus drivers receive a reconfigured workstation with a variable dashboard, ergonomic enhancements, and camera-assisted mirrors to minimize blind spots. TransLink is set to receive 107 of the 40-foot buses initially. The total order stands at 275 buses (183 40-foot and 92 articulated 60-foot models) at a cost of $488 million, or around $1.78 million per vehicle. If the contract is fully exercised, there could be up to 201 additional 40-foot and 204 60-foot trolley buses. The new buses debut in September with a commemorative art wrap marking the launch of the fleet.
The facts
When will TransLink's new trolleybus enter service?
TransLink's new trolleybus will enter service in September 2026.
How far can the new trolleybus travel without overhead wires?
The new trolleybus can travel up to 20 kilometres without overhead wires, thanks to an onboard battery that recharges while the bus is in motion.
How many of the new 40-foot trolleybuses is TransLink receiving initially?
TransLink is set to receive 107 of the 40-foot buses initially, with a total order of 275 buses (183 40-foot and 92 articulated 60-foot models).
What amenities does the new trolleybus include?
The new trolleybus features air conditioning, larger windows, low floors throughout, a third rear exit door, illuminated Braille-embossed stop buttons, and clearly marked red priority seating.
