The City of Brampton in Ontario is launching a major public transit transformation through a C$4 billion partnership with UK-based fleet electrification firm Zenobē, aiming to roll out 1,000 electric buses over the next ten years. The initiative, described by officials as one of the largest zero-emission bus programs in North America, will replace Brampton’s diesel fleet to serve an estimated 40 million annual passengers in the Greater Toronto Area’s largest suburb.
Zenobē, a leading player in electric fleet and battery storage solutions, will spearhead the project alongside a coalition of commercial partners, including vehicle manufacturers and engineering firms from Canada and the UK. The first phase is expected to begin in early 2027, with details on bus models and infrastructure developments still under discussion.
“This historic investment marks a turning point for Brampton and for public transit across Canada,” said Mayor Patrick Brown. “By transitioning to a fully electric bus fleet, we’re not only reducing emissions — we’re creating jobs, improving air quality, and building a cleaner, healthier future for our residents.”
Zenobē will support the project by providing capital, supply chain coordination, and planning tools, drawing on its experience delivering more than 120 electric depots globally. “Our customized match-funding options, combined with our experience, lowers costs and de-risks the inevitable path to zero-emission fleets,” said Steven Meersman, Co-Founder and Director at Zenobē. “We are delighted to grow our presence in Canada, and with Brampton, as we jointly achieve their financial and ecological objectives.”
Zenobē currently holds a 25% share of the UK’s electric bus market and is the largest operator of such fleets across the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. The company has also secured significant debt funding to expand its reach in North America and accelerate battery storage initiatives abroad.