An independent arbitrator recently ruled in favor of the City of Edmonton in a lawsuit against several companies regarding issues with engine coolant that impacted city buses and firefighting vehicles. The city initially filed a claim against Petro-Canada Lubricants Inc., Advanced Coolant Technologies Inc., and WEBA Technology Corp. in January 2023, but later dropped its claim against Petro-Canada Lubricants.
Verity Higgins, a communications adviser for the city manager’s office, stated that the city pursued legal action against two companies for providing faulty engine coolant that led to engine damage in various city fleet vehicles. Following arbitration, the city was awarded around $5.1 million from Advanced Coolant Technologies, which included damages, legal expenses, interest, and expert fees.
City spokesperson Dale Shekooley confirmed that the matter has been resolved, clarifying that WEBA Technology Corp. was not involved in the arbitration or settlement. Duane Bassani, president of Advanced Coolant Technologies, mentioned that the dispute was settled earlier in the year, expressing dissatisfaction with the arbitrator’s decision.
Bassani emphasized that all their products undergo third-party testing and highlighted the company’s commitment to customer service over its 26-year history. Despite the city’s claims of defective coolant causing engine failures starting in January 2021, Bassani defended the quality of their coolant.
The city’s financials for 2026 now reflect the awarded amount following the conclusion of the legal proceedings. Karen Hans, director of corporate accounting, reporting, and policy for the City of Edmonton, informed the city council that they anticipated receiving proceeds from the legal settlement in the current year.
WEBA Technology Corp. did not provide any comments in response to requests for input on the matter.