Pollution Probe, in partnership with the Mobility Futures Lab, RFS Energy and Southland Transportation Ltd., presented the results of a pilot program demonstrating the use of an electric school bus (ESB) in Calgary, Alberta.

From September 2022 to June 2023, a single Blue Bird ESB was deployed in collaboration with local fleet operator Southland Transportation, conducting 81 runs across three routes in Calgary, Alberta. The demonstration measured energy intensity, vehicle range, and the impact of temperature on ESB use in Canada’s harsh winters. Total cost of ownership (TCO) was also calculated.

Some key findings include:

• Improvements to driving experience: Certain factors, such as reduced noise and fumes, contribute to a more pleasant driver experience with ESBs.

• Impact of federal incentives on TCO: In Alberta, an ESB has a 21% cheaper TCO than a diesel school bus with federal incentives. Otherwise, the TCO is 19% higher.

• Electric school bus range: The range of the ESB on a single charge was up to 213 km based on the 155-kWh Blue Bird school bus battery, depending on the operating conditions. On certain routes, operators may have to send drivers back to the yard in between the morning and afternoon run for charging, contrary to existing practices.

• Impacts of cold weather: In winter conditions, the use of the bus electrical heating system increases energy intensity by an average of 33%, decreasing vehicle range. Fleet operators should explore bus pre-heating in advance of runs and logistical planning for mid-day charging in between runs to ensure sufficient range capabilities on certain routes.

• Consideration required for social equity: This report introduces a Social Equity Framework, emphasizing the need to pose equity questions at the outset of ESB projects. Recommendations include collaborating with community organizations to understand existing socioeconomic inequities at a community level, among others.

Splitting the case study outputs into a business case report, a technical report and a research report, Pollution Probe’s findings from the ESB demonstration provide a picture of the technical and economic considerations of ESB deployment in Calgary.

The report also notes that qualitative considerations play a crucial role in shaping the success and acceptance of the transition to ESB use. These include stakeholder engagement, community support and education, organizational change management, buy-in, and employee training.