A Comparative Analysis of Noise and Vibration Generation in Conventional and Electric Buses in Montreal

Buses are pivotal modes of transportation to Montreal’s public transit system. Nevertheless, their widespread use results in increased noise and vibration in the environment and adverse effects on human health. Several studies have quantified bus vibroacoustic generation and recommended the adoption of electric buses as a measure for reducing noise and vibration. However, these studies are confined to specific geographic regions, and mostly lack a relational link to rider perception, reducing their generalization and applicability. As a result, this study assesses and quantifies noise and vibration generated and perceived by riders in Montreal’s conventional and electric buses. The study ultimately provides empirical evidence for Montreal’s pacesetting rapid transition to electric buses in light of Canada’s 2030 Transportation Strategic Plan. Data was sourced from 31 conventional and 12 electric buses from the Société de Transport de Montreal (STM). Sound Meter Pro and iDynamics mobile apps alongside rider interviews were used for data collection. The findings of the study indicated low vibroacoustic generation and annoyance perception in electric buses compared to conventional buses. Furthermore, the rider perception regression models resulted in significant and high goodness-of-fits of 73.1 and 83.2% for noise and vibration respectively. In conclusion, the study provides fundamental insights into the dynamics of bus transit in Montreal and advocates for the use of electric buses over conventional buses. Additionally, the developed models provide predictive capabilities for assessing vibroacoustic perception in buses.