In a significant development, a Canadian-made transit bus has been produced for the first time in 15 years, as highlighted during an unveiling event in Winnipeg, officials announced on Tuesday. Premier Wab Kinew emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating that the project symbolizes Canada’s contribution to the low-carbon economy. The increased bus manufacturing capacity in Winnipeg, led by New Flyer, a subsidiary of NFI Group, has been made possible through a $38 million investment from federal and provincial governments.
The expansion project, named True North, has now transitioned from a concept to a fully operational facility, creating around 250 new jobs. The facility is focused on designing, engineering, and constructing Xcelsior hybrid-electric buses, showcasing advanced manufacturing capabilities and bolstering the local supply chain. Notably, this initiative underscores a commitment to producing buses for Canadian communities by Canadians.
NFI Group’s global headquarters in Winnipeg, with close to 3,000 employees, plays a vital role in supplying buses to various Canadian cities. Previously, bus shells were manufactured in Winnipeg and finalized in the U.S. With the recent enhancements, the U.S. plant’s capacity has been optimized to cater to American customers, representing a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Speaking at the event, federal Industry Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized the necessity of domestic production amidst ongoing trade uncertainties. Building buses entirely in Winnipeg allows for increased sourcing of materials within Canada, although certain components must be procured internationally due to local limitations. To adhere to “buy American” regulations, New Flyer ships partially completed buses to the U.S. for final assembly to meet U.S. market demands.
Currently, New Flyer is producing approximately 20 transit bus shells weekly, with a distribution ratio of five for Canadian markets and 15 for the U.S. This strategy aims to optimize production for each region, promoting localized manufacturing and economic growth. The company’s efforts align with the goal of leveraging Canadian expertise to meet domestic transportation needs while enhancing operational efficiency for international markets.