New Wheel-Trans friendly bus

October 2010

More the 80 Friendly buses have been received as Wheel-Trans continues to replace its oldest ELF and Orion II vehicles.

The TTC began accepting 110 Friendly buses for Wheel-Trans in 2009. All of the new low-floor paratransit buses are scheduled to be on property by year’s end. A total of 60 are in service.

Built by the Canadian Division of American Bus Products Inc., the Friendly Buses feature a larger interior for customers. Although they are four feet longer than the current ELF fleet, they can turn in a 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.
  • Full front and rear air suspension offers a much more controlled and comfortable ride for both the Operator and customer.
  • The vehicle’s interior is more brightly lit and much quieter than any other previous Wheel-Trans vehicle.
  • 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.