Solaris Bus & Coach, the prominent bus manufacturer from Bolechowo, Poland, has achieved a remarkable milestone by securing a substantial contract with TransLink, the public transportation authority in Vancouver, Canada. This agreement not only signifies a significant export achievement for the Greater Poland region but also underscores Solaris’s expanding global footprint and its commitment to sustainable urban mobility.
A Landmark Contract with Vancouver
TransLink has embarked on an ambitious project to rejuvenate its aging trolleybus fleet, which has been in operation for over two decades, accumulating more than 205 million kilometres. To address this, TransLink has entered into a contract with Solaris Bus & Coach for the initial delivery of 107 12-metre trolleybuses, with a total investment of $181 million. This initial order is part of a broader framework that includes options to procure up to 512 vehicles, potentially allowing for a comprehensive overhaul and expansion of Vancouver’s trolleybus network.
What Are Trolleybuses?
A trolleybus is an electric-powered bus that operates using overhead wires, much like a tram. However, unlike trams, trolleybuses have rubber tyres and can operate without tracks, giving them greater flexibility on city streets. The new Solaris Trollino trolleybuses being delivered to Vancouver are equipped with modern batteries, allowing them to travel up to 20 km without connection to the overhead wires. This makes them a highly adaptable and sustainable alternative to traditional diesel buses.
Trolleybuses have been in use in Vancouver since 1948, forming a crucial part of the city’s public transport network. They produce no direct emissions and are significantly quieter than diesel-powered buses. With cities worldwide pushing for greener transport solutions, the demand for zero-emission vehicles like those produced by Solaris is growing rapidly.
Solaris Bus & Coach: A Brief Overview
Established in 1996, Solaris Bus & Coach has evolved into one of Europe’s leading producers of buses and trolleybuses. The company’s focus on developing low-emission and zero-emission vehicles, including electric and hydrogen-powered buses, has positioned it at the forefront of sustainable public transportation solutions. With over 25,000 vehicles delivered to 850 cities across 33 countries, Solaris has demonstrated a robust commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.
By 2026, we aim to deliver our first zero-emission buses to customers in North America. We are working on new models that meet the specific technical and regulatory requirements of the US and Canada.
stated recently Mateusz Figaszewski, Solaris’s representative.
Strategic Expansion into North America
The contract with TransLink marks a pivotal moment in Solaris’s strategic expansion into the North American market. Historically concentrated in Europe, Solaris has been actively pursuing opportunities across the Atlantic. The company has already begun testing its Trollino 12 model in North America. In September 2023, one of its trolleybuses underwent test runs in Vancouver, proving its suitability for the local transport system. These successful trials played a crucial role in securing the current deal.
Further cementing its North American ambitions, Solaris signed its first contract for zero-emission bus deliveries in the United States in late 2024. The agreement with King County Metro, serving Seattle and surrounding areas, underscores Solaris’s commitment to providing sustainable transportation solutions tailored to the specific needs of North American cities.
What’s Next for Solaris?
The Vancouver contract is likely just the beginning. Many North American cities are looking for zero-emission solutions for their public transport networks. If Solaris successfully delivers its first fleet, it could open doors to further contracts across Canada and the US.
Solaris’s growth strategy includes:
- Expanding its product range to meet North American safety and performance standards
- Partnering with local businesses for production and maintenance support
- Competing in upcoming tenders for electric and hydrogen buses across the continent
Implications of the Vancouver Contract
The agreement with TransLink is more than a commercial success; it represents a significant opportunity for Solaris to showcase its expertise in zero-emission public transportation on a new continent. By supplying Vancouver with state-of-the-art trolleybuses, Solaris is set to contribute to the city’s sustainability goals and enhance the quality of public transit for its residents.
Moreover, this contract serves as a gateway for Solaris to further penetrate the North American market. The potential to supply up to 512 vehicles to Vancouver could lead to increased brand recognition and trust among other transit authorities in the region, paving the way for future collaborations and contracts. It’s a proud achievement for Poland’s industrial sector. The Greater Poland region, where Solaris is based, is becoming a hub for advanced public transport manufacturing. By securing contracts like this, Polish companies demonstrate their ability to compete on the global stage.
A Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability
Solaris’s success can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability. The company’s focus on developing low-emission and zero-emission vehicles aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints and combat climate change. In 2023, Solaris maintained its position as a leader in the European e-mobility market, with battery, hydrogen, trolleybuses, and hybrid buses comprising over 80% of its sales mix.
