The TTC is putting plans to buy $61 million worth of new buses on hold because its hybrid diesel-electric buses from the same manufacturer keep breaking down, reports say.
Officials tell a Toronto newspaper that the batteries in the buses are lasting for only 18 months, contrary to the manufacturers' claim they would last for five years. As well, fuel economy savings have only been 10 per cent, compared to a 20 to 30 per cent cut promised by Daimler Buses North America.
The transit commission already has a deal to buy 130 more hybrid buses, and hopes it can be delayed until the battery issue is resolved.
Hybrid diesel-electric buses run on both diesel fuel and electricity stored in the battery. They cost about $200,000 more than normal diesel buses.
