Winnipeg Transit has unveiled its first zero-emission bus purchase, a 12-metre hydrogen fuel-cell battery-electric bus, as part of a larger initiative to transition to greener public transportation. The city plans to introduce a total of 90 zero-emission buses, including battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell models, under a $280-million tri-government deal. Despite facing higher costs for electric buses compared to diesel, each green bus replacement is estimated to eliminate 60 to 80 tonnes of greenhouse-gas emissions per year. The introduction of these buses aligns with Winnipeg Transit's goal to have its entire fleet switched to zero-emission models by 2045. Although the city faced funding challenges in the past, it remains committed to evaluating and implementing zero-emission technology. The new buses are set to begin limited service in April, with testing slated to start as early as mid-March. Erin Cooke, project manager for Winnipeg Transit's Transition to Zero Emission Bus program, highlighted the environmental benefits of the new buses, noting that the only emissions produced are water vapor. The buses use hydrogen to generate electricity, charging batteries as they drive. Despite concerns about winter-weather performance, electric buses have previously demonstrated success during testing. Cooke emphasized the importance of continuing the transition to zero-emission models to reduce the city's carbon footprint and improve air quality.