7 hours ago
The first of OC Transpo's new Para Transpo minibuses is rolling out
OC Transpo says the first of its new Para Transpo minibuses is now on the road.
The new seven-metre minibus first arrived in February but has been undergoing inspections, testing, and driver training.
In a post on social media, OC Transpo announced Monday the new minibus has hit the streets.
'Our first 7-metre Para Transpo bus is now on the road — and it might be picking you up soon,' OC Transpo said. 'This is just the beginning, as more are on the way.'
OC Transpo has ordered 76 new seven-metre buses to update the Para Transpo fleet, and six new six-metre buses.
According to OC Transpo, the new seven-metre buses come with up to 10 seats, up to three wheelchair spots, O-payment readers and air conditioning. The seats come with seatbelts and stability belts, the back and side door ramps are slip-resistant, and there are onboard security cameras on each bus.
Para Transpo interior
Interiors of Para Transpo's new seven-metre minibus. (Courtesy: OC Transpo)
The back ramp can support mobility devices up to 86 centimetres (34 inches) wide and up to 454 kilograms (1,000 pounds). The back ramp can support the same width and devices up to 363 kg (800 lbs.), OC Transpo says.
Last December, OC Transpo said Para Transpo minibuses were experiencing increased mechanical issues due to the age of majority of the fleet.
'These older vehicles require additional repairs that are often more complex and take longer to complete,' a memo said.
As of last December, Para Transpo had a fleet of 80 minibuses, which were 10 years old.
Replacement of the fleet was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, staff said, but is now underway, with the first new buses arriving this year.
