School Bus Operators Relieved by Lion Electric Buyout, But Call for Long-Term Support

Quebec City, May 21, 2025 — The Federation of Bus Transporters (FTA) has welcomed with relief the court-approved acquisition of Lion Electric by a group of Quebec-based investors. The deal secures maintenance services and warranties for approximately 1,300 electric school buses currently operating in the province—crucial support as the 2025 school year approaches.

While this transaction brings short-term reassurance, the FTA is urging the Quebec government to adopt a long-term strategy to support the ongoing electrification of school transportation. Since 2021, all newly registered school buses in Quebec must be electric, and nearly 1,200 units will need replacement by fall 2025 due to the 12-year service limit.

“The purchase of Lion Electric provides relief,” said FTA President and CEO Luc Lafrance, “but school bus operators still face uncertainty about future pricing and the stability of public support programs.”

The FTA highlights the importance of maintaining and enhancing the School Transportation Electrification Program (PETS), which recently increased its subsidies to $240,000 per bus, though that increase was not part of the acquisition deal.

As stakeholders celebrate this rescue of a key manufacturer, the FTA insists that the real challenge now lies in building a predictable and sustainable path forward for electric school transport across Quebec.