New Wheel-Trans pilot bus

May-June 2009

Operators are now testing a new, low-floor paratransit bus around Toronto. It's the first of the new Friendly Buses for Wheel-Trans.

Commissioners approved the award of a $33 million contract to purchase 110 Friendly Buses for Wheel-Trans. The first 41 arrive this year while the remaining 69 are expected in 2010.

Built by the Canadian Division of American Bus Products Inc., the Friendly Buses are four feet longer than current Wheel-Trans buses, but can turn in a four-foot smaller circle. 

The vehicles will include new and improved features such as:

  • Larger mobility device positions, which include five wheelchair/scooter positions or up to eight ambulatory seats; all positions have an integrated shoulder restraint belt.
  • Operator’s area is equipped with kneeling control functionality and a fully adjustable ergonomic passenger control panel and GPS/AVL system.
  • Antimicrobial finishes on interior stanchions and foam grab pads, adjustable passenger wall grab handles and full-suspension air ride.
  • Security camera system, automatic fire suppression system, manual and automatic battery disconnect as well as complete LED interior and exterior lighting systems.
  • Wider passenger door and aisle ways.
  • Reversing camera and backup radar sounding system.

The Friendly Bus was used as a shuttle bus to and from the People in Motion Show at the Exhibition Place in Toronto in June.