Milton made headlines with the creation of Canada’s first diesel-to-battery electric bus conversion, showcasing a practical and scalable approach to clean technology. Rather than retiring a diesel bus midway through its lifecycle, Milton Transit extended its service life by converting it to a fully electric vehicle, maximizing the value of existing assets while advancing sustainability goals.

The project was delivered in partnership with MTB Transit Solutions, a Milton-based company, highlighting the community’s strength in applied innovation and advanced manufacturing. Through this local collaboration, the diesel engine and related components were removed and replaced with a fully electric powertrain. The rear of the bus was disassembled, rebuilt, and re-engineered to operate as a battery electric vehicle, while maintaining the original exterior shell.

Beyond environmental outcomes, this initiative reinforces that Milton is a community where innovation is put into practice. Economic Development continues to promote this successful pilot project with local municipalities to encourage new provincial opportunities for MTB Transit, and position Milton as a leader in piloting innovative solutions. By supporting local companies in this way, piloting new technologies, and demonstrating real-world solutions, Milton continues to position itself as a community where innovative businesses thrive, bold ideas are realized, and a resilient, future-ready economy is built.