BC’s first electric school bus makes its debut in Sooke

An impressive new school bus made its debut in Sooke this week.

BC’s first electric school bus began transporting hundreds of children in the district on Monday.

According to the Victoria Electric Vehicle Association, although it may look like a traditional school bus, it sure doesn’t sound like one — It’s quiet and is 100% electric.

“We are making history and we’re incredibly proud to be piloting electric buses,” said Tracey Syrota, School District 62 Manager of Transportation.

“It’s inspiring to see that we are reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while making a positive shift towards a sustainable future.”

Currently, the electric bus makes three runs each day for students in elementary and secondary schools on the Westshore.

Each child riding the bus for the first time receives a card acknowledging the historic milestone.

The bus is the first of two electric vehicles that will be joining the School District 62 fleet this month.

It’s manufactured by the IC Bus division of Navistar International, with a 350-kilometre range and significant reduction in fuel and maintenance costs.

Each bus is estimated to save over 2,000-litres of diesel fuel and eliminates almost six metric tons of CO2, as well as reduces five to 15 times more of other airborne particulates.

“Moving our children to a fully electric school bus demonstrates that SD62 understands the health benefits of avoiding diesel exhaust for both kids and drivers, as well as eliminating emissions in our community,” David Grove, President of the Victoria Electric Vehicle Association.

“The added benefits of reduced fuel and maintenance costs also leaves more money in school budgets for valuable educational priorities.”