Electric Coach Innovation in Canada

‍Damera Corporation is proud to witness the increasing interest in electric motorcoaches across Canada, especially with projects like Ontario Northland’s pilot program, which is testing the feasibility of electric coaches on both short- and long-haul routes. These routes span important regions such as Sudbury, North Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, Ottawa, and Toronto, showcasing the adaptability of electric vehicles for various travel needs.

TEMSA's Success After Rigorous Performance Analysis
According to Electric Autonomy, the research for this pilot began over a year ago, with Ontario-based consulting firm FleetZero leading the effort. FleetZero was chosen to advise Ontario Northland on the best strategies for incorporating electric vehicles (EVs) into their fleet. After an in-depth analysis of performance data, gathered in collaboration with both Ontario Northland and Damera Corporation, the TEMSA TS45e was identified as the optimal choice for this pilot program.

Real-World Testing of TEMSA TS45e
Since August, the TEMSA TS45e has undergone rigorous testing on multiple routes to evaluate its performance under real-world conditions. Naeem Farooqi, CEO of FleetZero, has reported that the pilot is progressing well. The TS45e, manufactured in Turkey, boasts a 400-kilometer range and an 800-volt electrical system, designed for greater energy efficiency, faster charging, and robust performance. This makes it an excellent fit for long-distance routes like those operated by Ontario Northland.

Planning for Fleet Electrification
Once the initial testing is complete, the next step will be to develop a strategic plan for introducing more electric vehicles into Ontario Northland’s fleet. This includes identifying the necessary infrastructure, such as charging stations, to support the electric transition. Additionally, training programs will be developed to ensure fleet operators, stakeholders, and other key personnel are well-prepared to manage and operate the new electric buses effectively.

Challenges of Electrification in Remote Areas
The vast and remote nature of Northern Ontario's routes, combined with limited public charging infrastructure, has made Ontario Northland an ideal partner for this pilot project. Testing electric coaches in these challenging conditions provides critical insights into how EVs perform over long distances with minimal charging resources. One of the key findings so far is the need for a dedicated private charging network to ensure the successful transition to electric coaches.

The Critical Role of Ontario Northland
Ontario Northland operates a vital network of passenger and freight trains, as well as buses, connecting major regions such as Toronto, St. James Bay, Ottawa, and Kenora. They are also the only provider of year-round rail service to First Nation communities in the remote St. James Bay area. Their vehicles travel a remarkable 4.9 million kilometers annually, making them an ideal partner for testing and refining electric coach technology in some of the country’s most isolated areas.

A Look Ahead: Preparing for a Greener Future
As electric bus technology continues to advance, the insights gained from Ontario Northland’s pilot program with the TEMSA TS45e will play a key role in shaping the future of transportation in Canada. With Damera Corporation’s support, transit agencies have access to reliable electric solutions that meet the unique demands of both urban and remote routes. Additionally, our charging infrastructure solutions ensure a smooth transition to electric fleets. Contact Damera Corporation today to learn more about how our range of electric buses, coaches and charging services can elevate your fleet.

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