North Bay is going green with the debut of its very first electric ice resurfacer at Memorial Gardens
The Zamboni Model 552AC, equipped with lithium-ion batteries for quick charging, is replacing an aging propane-powered machine, delivering zero emissions, potential cost savings, and improved air quality for a safer, healthier environment.
The purchase of the new $160,000 ice-resurfacer was approved in 2022, but delivery had been delayed due to supply issues.
“We are strategically introducing electric vehicles into our fleet with a clear goal in mind to make North Bay more sustainable and efficient. This is a proactive step towards reducing our environmental footprint while enhancing the overall efficiency of our operations,” said Fleet Manager John Ouellette.
Zero-maintenance lithium-ion batteries are sealed and emission-free.
City staff members are currently undergoing training, with the new machine expected to be in operation next week.
Zamboni is actually a trade name of its inventor Frank J. Zamboni.
He was born on January 16, 1901 in Eureka, Utah.
According to the Zamboni website, In 1920, Frank moved to Southern California with his brother Lawrence to join their older brother George in his auto repair business. After a short time tinkering on cars, the two younger Zambonis decided to open an electrical service business catering to the local dairy industry. The brothers installed many refrigerator units dairies used to keep their milk cool.
When the demand for cooling expanded into the produce industry, the brothers expanded their business vision, as well: they built a plant that made the block ice wholesalers used to pack their product that was transported by rail across the country. But as refrigeration technology improved, demand for block ice began to shrink, and Frank and Lawrence started looking for other ways to capitalize on their expertise with ice.
That opportunity came in the sport of ice skating. Popularity of the sport was growing, but there were few rinks in Southern California, so in 1939 Frank, Lawrence, and a cousin built Iceland Skating Rink in Paramount. The rink still operates today just blocks from the Zamboni factory.
For more information about the Zamboni family history, see “The Man Behind the Machine”.
Lithium-ion batteries provide the ability to quickly charge between resurfacings, maintaining power and eliminating the need for lengthy overnight recharging periods. Charge time is generally equivalent to work time.
