The Long and Short of Reliability

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The long and short of reliability.

Introducing the

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At MCI, we know that groups come in all different sizes. That’s why we now offer a 35-foot version of our best-selling J-Series coach. Impressive inside and

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WHO’S DRIVING THE BUS? YOU ARE.

WheWhenn you cchoosehoose FFreightlinerreightliner CCustomustom CChassis,hassis, you get the REAL COST OF powepower toto ccustomizeustomize yyourour ttransportationransportation to meet yyourour nneeds.eeds. OWNERSHIP™ And with its reputation for durability, reliability, automotive styling and maneuverability, the S2C chassis is the premier choice for public transportation, resort and hotel shuttles, day-tour operations, armored and utility applications, and any business FUEL EFFICIENCY 2 with special transport needs.

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t Speciﬁ cations are subject to change without notice. Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation is registered to ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2004. Copyright ©2016 Daimler Trucks North America LLC. All rights reserved. Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation is a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America LLC, a Daimler company.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 Published by Rankin Publishing, Inc. www.buslinemag.com MAGAZINE Promoting Safety, Dignity & Respect For Passengers Suffolk Transportation Service, Inc...... 8 Raleigh, NC EcoStyle Chauffeured Transportation ...... 24

— Busline Buyers Guides — T Engines & Transmissions...... 36 • Bus Shelters...... 40 October 13 – 16, New York City APTA TRANSform Conference ...... 39 BusCon Tradeshow September 23 - 25 In Indianapolis...... 43

Busline Vehicle Showcase: Transit Buses • MCI 47 • BYD 48 • Prevost 49 • Nova Bus 50 • Alexander Dennis 50 • REV Group 51

ON THE COVER: Among the representatives of Suffolk Trans- portation Service/Suffolk Bus Corp., are, left to right, Ann Rosen- RAPID RESPONSE...... Page 6 berg, center manager; Thomas W. Smith, vice president-school operations & business development; Wilber Bonillagonzalez, INDUSTRY NEWS...... Page 52 driver; Alex Compere, dispatcher; and Tom Cronau, senior center manager. They are shown next to one of the company’s Micro Bird buses. Photos courtesy of Paragon Advertising. See page 8. CONTENTS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS EDITORIAL & CORPORATE OFFICES SEPTEMBER 2019 NOVEMBER 2019 MAY 2020 September 23-25 November 2-5 May 17-20 Rankin Publishing Co., Inc. BusCon 2019 National Association For APTA Mobility Conference Don Rankin and Linda Rankin, Publishers Indianapolis, IN Pupil Transportation (NAPT) San Antonio, TX 204 E. Main Street • P.O. Box 130 Conference & Trade Show Info: 800-576-8788 Info: 202-496-4800 Arcola, IL 61910-0130, USA Columbus, OH OCTOBER 2019 Info: 518-452-3611 May 31 - June 4 Email: [email protected] October 13-16 Community Transportation Website: www.rankinpublishing.com APTA JANUARY 2020 Association of America (800) 598-8083 (U.S.) • (217) 268-4959 Annual Meeting January 10-14 (CTAA) Expo Fax: (217) 268-4815 New York, NY American Bus Association Louisville, KY Info: 202-496-4800 (ABA) Marketplace 2020 Info: 800-891-0590 Editorial: Harrell Kerkhoff, Editor Omaha, NE October 21-23 Info: 202-842-1645 OCTOBER 2020 Rick Mullen, Associate Editor UITP & Busworld — October 11-14 Design: David Opdyke, Kris Bott The International January 19-23 APTA Annual Meeting Reception: Mary Jo Dunn Bus Conference United Motorcoach & Expo Brussels, Belgium Association (UMA) Anaheim, CA Advertising Info: busconference.com Motorcoach Expo Info: 202-496-4800 Contact Kevin Kennedy @ 813-502-6672 Nashville, TN Info: 800-424-8262 Email: [email protected] Or Busline Magazine is published 6 times a year by Rankin Publishing, Inc., 204 E. Main, P.O. Box 130, Arcola, IL 61910-0130. Publisher assumes no liability whatsoever for content of any advertisement or editorial material contained herein. Copyright 2019 Rankin Pub- Don Rankin @ 800-598-8083 lishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written consent of Rankin Fax: 217-268-4815 Publishing, Inc. Subscription Rates in United States: 6 issues $25. Single Copy rate: $10 including postage/handling; Buyer’s Guide $15 including postage/handling. International rates: 6 issue annual Air Mail Subscription $60 U.S. dollars net Email: [email protected]

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KEEP YOUR BUSINESS CRUISING FORWARD WITH A PREVENTIVE SERVICE AGREEMENT.

If your business is near one of our 15 service centers across the US and Canada, our factory-trained technicians will provide the expert maintenance you need to keep your coaches running smoothly. Talk with a Prevost service team member today about a Prevost Uptime® agreement. Think of it as a green light for your company proﬁts.

prevostcar.com

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Company Website Page # Company Website Page #

ABC Companies abc-companies.com 11 Micro Bird Commercial mbcbus.com 32 Altro altro.com 34 Midwest Bus Corporation midwestbus.com 41 AngelTrax angeltrax.com 17 MobilityTRANS MobilityTRANS.com 18 ARBOC Specialty Vehicles ARBOCsv.com 30 Motor Coach Industries (MCI) mcicoach.com 2 Atlantic Detroit Diesel-Allison atlanticdda.com 37 Motorcoach Tire Sales motorcoachtiresales.com 26 Bitimec Wash-Bots wash-bots.com 22 Onspot Automatic Tire Chains onspot.com 60 Bitzer bitzerus.com 52 Petro Stopping Centers ta-petro.com 61 BUS Advisors BUSadvisors.org 35 Prevost Car prevostcar.com 5 BusCon BusConExpo.com 45 ProAir, LLC proairllc.com 44 BYD byd.com 7 REV Coach, LLC revcoach.com 64 CBM NA cbmcompany.com/en/ 55 Reyco Granning reycogranning.com 12 CHTC Bus Group chtcbusgroup.com 21 Safety Step safetystep.net 59 Clean Seal cleanseal.com 42 Safety Vision safetyvision.com 29 Complete Coach Works completecoach.com 57 Sardo Bus & Coach Upholstery www.sardobus.com 27 Continental Corporation continental-corporation.com 14 Service Insurance serviceins.com 59 Diamond Manufacturing diamondmfg.com 60 Sutrak sutrakusa.com 40 Dixie Electric Ltd. delstar-hd.com 56 Teknoware Inc. teknoware.com 58 Driverge driverge.com 28 Temsa temsa.com 25 DriveWare Software driveware.com 54 Thermo King Thermoking.com/Bus 10 Freedman Seating Company freedmanseating.com 23 TIB tibinsurance.com 46 Freightliner fcccbus.com 3 Transign transignllc.com 15 Hometown Trolley hometowntrolley.com 9 TRP® Parts TRPQuality.com 36 Irizar USA irizarusa.com 63 UMA Expo motorcoachexpo.com 62 Kelderman Air Suspension Systems kelderman.com 16 Vanner Power vanner.com 6, 31 LiquidSpring liquidspring.com 13 WEH weh.us 38 Marathon Brake Systems MarathonBrake.com 20

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Suffolk Transportation Service, Inc.

By Harrell Kerkhoff, Busline Magazine Editor

uffolk Transportation Serv- “Suffolk Transportation Service ice, Inc., a major transportation is a major school transportation op- provider in Suffolk County, eration involving buses and vans Long Island, NY, continues to build for public and private schools, chil- Supon its 70-plus year history of inno- dren with special needs and adult vative services while helping to meet transportation programs through- the needs of a variety of passenger “The ‘nuts and bolts’ of transportation out our county. This is referred as groups and communities. the school division,” Thomas Suffolk Transportation Service, success still comes down to providing Smith, Suffolk Vice President — Inc., along with its transit division, trips that customers want and need, School Operations and Business Suffolk Bus Corp., offers school and along with quality customer service.” Development, said. “Suffolk Bus transit bus/van services in Suffolk Corp., meanwhile, focuses on the County, NY, the fourth-most popu- — Thomas Smith public transportation sector in the lous county in New York. The county county. That includes Americans has an estimated population of 1.4 million residents, measures 86 with Disabilities Act (ADA) paratransit service as well as miles in length and 26 miles at its widest point, and is surrounded fixed-route bus service. We run 275 paratransit and transit by water on its north (Long Island Sound), east and south (Atlantic vehicles, delivering approximately 10,000 trips per day, Ocean) sides, while Nassau County, NY, borders its western edge. seven days per week.

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“The school division (Suffolk Transportation Service) is our par- those students who might not otherwise be able to afford such sup- ent company and largest operation. It services 19 school districts plies prior to the school year.” spread throughout Suffolk County. We operate our school vehicles It’s very common for employees of Suffolk Transportation Serv- from 11 county locations.” ice to also live in the county, allow- Smith noted that there are many ing them to be near customers and advantages to running a transporta- various service locations on a daily tion company that only serves one basis. county — even if that county hap- “Suffolk County is densely pop- pens to be the second largest in ulated in many areas. It seems that New York by size, and the fourth no matter the time of day, our road- largest by population. ways are congested. It can make “Servicing just one centralized navigating through various parts of area is nice in that it allows us to the county a challenge,” Smith said. ‘keep our arms around’ the business “Despite the traffic, operating a and our operations. With all of our transportation business in Suffolk facilities located in Suffolk County, County is very rewarding. A large we are able to remain very close to The fleet at Suffolk Transportation Service population means there is a large our communities and customers,” includes many buses produced by Micro Bird Inc. demand for the type of services that he said. “As a company, we have we provide. become very ingrained within our local communities in Suffolk “For example, we service one of the largest school districts in County. We enjoy very strong local brand recognition and try to New York. Overall, we transport a tremendous number of passen- provide a lot of good work for the community as a whole. That in- gers each day.” cludes being involved with local charitable organizations. “Many leaders and organizations within our communities know A LONG HISTORY ON LONG ISLAND that we are a big operation and are willing to help. We are recog- nized in the county as a company that likes to be involved in the uffolk County is one of four counties that make up Long Is- community, doing good work for local students and being a re- land, the largest island in the contiguous United States, at a source. For example, our company is a participant in a local back- length of 118 miles. From west to east, the four counties are pack and school supply program for area school children, helping SKings and Queens (which comprise the New York City boroughs EFFICIENT ALL-ELECTRIC SOLUTIONS

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of Brooklyn and Queens, respectively), along with Nassau and Suf- up in the business. He is also a certified public accountant, and, folk counties, the latter of which occupies the eastern two-thirds of after spending time working for other companies in accounting, the island. More than half of New York City’s residents live on joined the family business in 1988 as treasurer. Long Island, mainly in Brooklyn and Queens. Today, cherished photographs of Joseph, John A. and Michael “Long Island is an interesting place. There are a lot of differences Corrado, the three original family bus drivers, hang proudly in the between the western and far eastern hallway of the company’s corpo- portions, from a highly congested rate office in Bay Shore, NY. urban landscape to more rural and “We are a privately-held com- seaside settings. You can drive 10 pany and a large family operation. miles and see different terrain, from Part of our success is that the fam- hills in the northern portion of the ily component is still a part of the island to flat terrain along the south business,” Smith said. “John J. shore,” Smith said. “One thing is Corrado remains very involved. He for certain, unless you take a ferry, is a true leader when it comes to there is only one way off the island moving the business forward, help- if you are driving. You have to head Company headquarters ing us with creative solutions that west through New York City.” often involve the use of advanced The history of both Suffolk technology. That, in turn, allows Transportation Service and Suffolk Bus Corp., dates over 70 years. for the greater safety and/or efficiency of our entire operation. The They were purchased by John A. Corrado in 1970. Prior to the end result is a better overall service for our ridership as a whole.” purchase, Corrado ran the school bus division of Varsity Transit According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Suffolk County consists in Queens with over 1,000 drivers and vehicles under his supervi- of 2,373 square miles, of which 912 square miles is land, with the sion. Varsity Transit was a division of Green Bus Lines, a company remaining area (62 percent) being water. The county occupies 66 that Corrado’s father and father-in-law helped establish many percent of the land area of Long Island. Due, in part, to the years prior. county’s large size, Suffolk Transportation Service and Suffolk Suffolk Transportation Service and Suffolk Bus Corp., are now Bus Corp., operate 11 active locations for transportation opera- owned and operated by Corrado’s son, John J. Corrado, who has tions, three of which Smith called “principal” that include main- been the president of both entities since 1995, and essentially grew tenance shops and offices.

Page 12 BUSLINE September/October 2019

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“Those maintenance shops involve full service areas that include mercial Group and smaller vehicles from Micro Bird Inc. wash bays. They have 8 to 12 service bays manned by two shifts, “We are very proud of our Blue Bird and Micro Bird units. On along with a full service transportation office at each site,” Smith the Micro Bird side, we have found success using versatile buses said. “They are centrally located within our main service areas in that have room for multiple wheelchairs and also feature flip-up Suffolk County. In fact, 90 percent of our service takes place seats (G-5DS Series). That model allows us to quickly and effi- within 15 miles of one of those three main facilities.” ciently modify each vehicle to fit a specific number of wheelchairs. For example, with adult programs, one day we may need to fit five A FLEET FULL OF CAPABILITIES wheelchairs in a specific vehicle, while the next day we may need to just fit three wheelchairs. Our dispatchers love those Micro Bird he fleet at Suffolk Transportation Service has grown from buses due to their versatility, allowing them to better arrange trans- 35 school buses and 15 transit buses in 1970 to over 1,400 portation services for specific customers,” Smith said. “We have school buses, 76 transit buses and 195 paratransit vehicles approximately 19 such Micro Bird units and started purchasing today. It includes a number of larger buses from Blue Bird Com- them over the past two years. That is in addition to our 180 Micro T Birds used for general school routes. “Our company’s history with Micro Bird is lengthy. We love the company’s products. They have a great reputation, providing vehicles that hold up well over time. We are very proud to put Micro Bird vehicles on the road in connection with our different transportation services.” One of the biggest new developments at Suffolk Transportation Service, is the in- troduction of four full-size electric Blue Bird buses, expected to be in operation in September 2019 (coordinated with the Bay Shore UFSD), according to Smith. “We just completed the charging station infrastructure for those vehicles at one of our yards. The buses have just arrived and are being prepared for service. Meanwhile, certain drivers and mechanics are receiving special training in association with those units,” Smith said. “Suffolk Transportation Now – get a 360° Service will be among the first in the state of New York to operate Blue Bird fully- view around the bus. electric buses, allowing us to help define maintenance savings and cost-per-mile dif- The ProViu® ASL360 Camera System lets ferences compared to diesel vehicles for you monitor your surroundings in a totally future users of the electric buses. Our goal new way. ProViu’s four cameras stitch is the help change the dynamics of the together a single 360-degree view around school bus industry. the bus, reducing blind spots and revealing “It was really exciting to find out last pedestrians, cyclists, and other obstacles year that there was opportunity to use elec- hidden from a driver’s mirrors. Blind spots are tric buses for the upcoming school year. reduced and potential hazards exposed. We have been talking about that for the past 10 years, and it’s now here. A lot of When loading, unloading or maneuvering strategic planning took place to get the through traic, ProViu ASL360 keeps drivers project up and running.” fully aware of everyone and everything that’s He added that the future is wide open happening around them. when it comes to more electric buses being Give your operation the improved vision of deployed at Suffolk Transportation Service. ProViu ASL360 Camera Systems. “If those vehicles work well within our operation and prove to be a great value 800-564-5066 Scan to see video. proposition, that will go a long way in our [email protected] commitment to growing an electric vehicle ProViu – A Trademark of www.continental-corporation.com the Continental Corporation fleet. There is a hope that additional grant money will be available in the future so that more transportation providers can obtain

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electric vehicles,” Smith said. “The check motion detection system,” more electric vehicles that are pur- Smith said. “We also provide a chased, and the more that technol- school bus tracking app for par- ogy is developed, the greater the ents to help them get real-time bus chance that the overall cost of such arrival notifications. vehicles will come down to sus- “I don’t think anyone at our com- tainable levels.” pany could picture running our op- Along with reducing a trans- erations anymore without GPS. For portation provider’s carbon foot- example, GPS with advanced print, Smith said an electric motor telematics allows us to better mon- is less complicated than a diesel en- itor how our drivers perform behind gine. In the long run, that could add the wheel. That involves compara- to additional maintenance savings. The infrastructure at Suffolk Transportation Service tive analysis, which compares ac- “There are fewer moving parts includes plenty of room for employee training. tual driving versus planned routing. in an electric motor. We are ex- We are able to better evaluate and cited about what that could mean for our future maintenance costs, make decisions and driving modifications based on that data.” along with having a cleaner running vehicle,” he said. As stated, officials at Suffolk Transportation Service have been EMPLOYEES HEAD CUSTOMER SERVICE EFFORTS preparing specific employees for the arrival of the four electric Blue Bird buses. That includes special training for mechanics and n important part of the employee culture at Suffolk Trans- those people who train drivers at the company. portation Service is to look out for the welfare of passen- “Everyone involved with our electric buses will need to be well gers, often involving school children and senior citizens. trained. It’s an ongoing process,” Smith said. It’s a task not taken lightly. All vehicles at Suffolk Transportation Service are equipped with A“The main key to our success is our employees — from our driv- specific amenities to help enhance the passenger experience for a ers behind the wheel to our driver assistants, mechanics, transporta- wide range of riders. tion supervisors, dispatchers, terminal managers; finance, human “We have been proactive over the past three to four years adding resource, safety and risk management teams and members of our high-level technology upgrades for our fleet. That includes digital executive staff — everyone is focused on promoting the safety, dig- Continued On Page 20 solutions involving GPS, digital radios and an advanced child-

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20 STANDARD and 14 OPTIONAL safety features and we didn’t count parking brake! Safety isn’t our middle name, it’s the rst part! SafeTbus by MobilityTRANS Please consider us for your eet. Safe, fuel ecient and very cost eecve.

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Automac pedestrian detecon braking STD. OPTION OPTION OPTION Automac pre-collision emergency braking STD. N/A N/A N/A Automac post collision braking STD. N/A N/A N/A Lane keeping system, lane departure warning STD. OPTION OPTION OPTION Rain-sensing windshield wipers STD. N/A N/A N/A

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Suffolk Transportation Service: Continued From Page 16 “Along with being able to pass an extensive background check, driver candidates must show they are caring, will do the right thing nity and respect of our passengers,” Smith said. “Developing and under all circumstances and understand the challenges of driving a implementing a caring philosophy is vital to what we do as a trans- vehicle, while also managing students and other passengers. portation provider. In response to our efforts, the results have been “It’s just not about driving the bus. Our drivers have to make positive over the years. We receive a lot of letters from parents, sure that young school children, for example, are sitting rather saying it’s so nice to have a driver behind the wheel who greets than moving about the vehicle. Drivers have to consistently pro- students with a smile and a ‘good morning.’” vide passenger management. Our drivers are well trained and ca- Among the drivers at the company are those who operate para- pable of using their training when the need arises. They also take transit and fixed-route transit vehi- “It’s our goal to have the right resources in great pride in their work. That in- cles, as well as those working in the cludes keeping the interiors of their school division and adult trans- place to help solve all types of problems vehicles neat and tidy.” portation program. when it comes to transportation.” According to Smith, most people Each driver and driver assistant hired to drive at Suffolk Transporta- is required to wear a “waist up” uni- tion Service start in the school bus form. They are supplied with company ID badges, shirts, vests, division, where the company will help them acquire a CDL license hats and reflective jackets, the necessary attire to look neat and pro- if they don’t already have one. Extensive training on the company’s fessional. All employees, including office staff, are also required policies is also provided. That includes driving skills and student to wear a photo ID at all times. management. Candidates interested in driving a transit vehicle for Like all positions at Suffolk Transportation Service, driving a the company must have at least one year of experience in passenger vehicle is taken very seriously. Smith and his coworkers understand transportation. that driving a large vehicle full of passengers, often in heavy sub- “Our training process for all new hires goes from ‘A to Z,’” urban traffic, is definitely not a job for everyone. Smith said. “We started a successful new program this year to train “We look for driver candidates who show the ability to care. It’s our driver assistants who want to become drivers. Those are people important they truly care about their passengers, whether those peo- who assist the driver with managing children, whether it’s securing ple are students, adults with special needs or the general public. wheelchairs before a route, giving students with special needs more That caring must be a part of a driver’s personality. It’s definitely a attention or simply controlling the atmosphere inside the vehicle part of our evaluation when looking at new candidates,” Smith said. in the passenger area.

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“A certain number of those assistants “We experienced having a surplus of want to become drivers. What is beneficial drivers toward the end of last year. In this is that they already have onboard experi- day and age of low unemployment, that is ence. We can then further train them to be- a great feeling when operating a business come a driver, including helping those so manpower driven. I have told my team employees obtain a CDL.” that 2019 will be a very important year for Approximately 50 former driver assis- hiring people. I feel we will remain in good tants have now been trained to drive a com- shape as long as we are laser-focused on our pany vehicle. hiring goals.” “Those are employees who come to work on their first day as a driver already pos- IMPLEMENTING SMART sessing a lot of company experience, which GROWTH OBJECTIVES includes a good understanding of our expectations,” Smith said. “We look to con- s demand for different transportation tinue that program.” programs continues to rise in Suf- In today’s era of driver shortages in folk County, as well as other parts of many parts of the country, officials at Suf- Passengers with disabilities are well the country, it’s imperative to officials at folk Transportation Service, not only work served by Suffolk Transportation Service SuffolkA Transportation Service that smart hard to find qualified candidates, but retain and its transit division, Suffolk Bus Corp. growth objectives are followed. That in- good drivers once hired. That is done in a cludes striving for improved maintenance ef- variety of ways. ficiencies, enhanced safety measures and providing greater “We are proactive in raising the bar for employees when it comes customer service. to wage and benefit packages, as well as the ability to grow within “It’s important to stay on top of technology, whether it’s using the company. That often allows us to get first choice in the market the smartest routing software and best onboard solutions to making when it comes to hiring and retaining the best people,” Smith said. sure we are among industry leaders in safety and efficiency,” Smith “It’s also essential to provide clean facilities, modern and well-main- said. “We have always been a company that strives to test new tained vehicles and a friendly company culture. In return, our em- things and understand new technology. As company president, John Continued On Page 55 ployees are willing to practice safe, reliable and efficient services. 8"4)#64&4'"45"/%&"4:

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September/October 2019 BUSLINE Page 23 busline0919.FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 9/4/19 10:26 AM Page 24

Pictured, from left, are Scott Tyler (vice president), Brock Pittman (president) and Danielle Pittman (partner).

By Rick Mullen, Busline Magazine Associate Editor

ospitality-first is the prevailing teams. We also specialize in luxury cor- “We mindset at EcoStyle Chauf- porate transportation. We do a lot of cor- feured Transportation, of porate group movements for various have a Raleigh, NC, which offers best-in-class companies throughout North Carolina. Hchauffeured transportation. While the During the past three years, our primary company’s main facility is in Raleigh, it focus has been on the motorcoach side of Hospitality serves clients throughout the United the business.” States and beyond. In addition to serving the state of North “We offer a wide array of transporta- Carolina, EcoStyle offers professional, tion services, with our sedans all the way reliable, long-distance transportation. First up to vans, mini-coaches and motor- “We take a lot of tours out west to such coaches,” said Vice President and Co- locations as Las Vegas, NV. We travel up founder Scott Tyler, during a recent and down the East Coast from Florida to mindset interview with Busline Magazine. “We Maine,” Tyler said. “We also take trips to are heavily into athletic charters, taking Canada. If a client wants to go some- here.” groups to stadiums across the United where, and it makes sense, we will take States, as well as transporting sports him/her wherever he/she wants to travel.

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We work with a lot of high-end tour companies. They love using hospitality-first mindset here. Our clients love how our chauffeurs our equipment and our staff. They book us for tours throughout the take care of them.” United States. It is pretty cool to look at the GPS and see our Because of its commitment to above and beyond service, coaches all over the U.S. There are really no limitations to where EcoStyle goes to great lengths to make sure it hires drivers who are we can go.” capable of having that hospitality-first mindset. In addition to sporting events, the company’s group transporta- “As part of the interview process for a chauffeur job, we let the tion offerings include weddings, candidate know we are a little bit church groups, birthday celebra- different, making sure he/she has a tions, school transportation, brew- service-first mindset,” Tyler said. ery and wine tours, and more. “Finding qualified, quality drivers EcoStyle’s executive chauffeur is a challenge. We are picky, but services include transporting busi- when we find a great operator, ness clients to meetings and events, he/she tends to stay. Our turnover is as well as a shuttle and private avi- extremely low. ation service. “We have a great family mindset The company also offers airport here and the chauffeurs appreciate travel services. EcoStyle chauffeurs what we do for them. Likewise, we will greet clients inside the airport appreciate what they mean to and escort them to their vehicle. EcoStyle. We have a great relation- Drivers will also take care of trans- ship with all of our drivers. Once porting a client’s luggage in and out they come on board, we treat them of the vehicle. like family and they rarely leave.” “We hold our drivers to a EcoStyle welcomes visitors to its main facility For driver training, EcoStyle higher standard. We want them to in Raleigh, NC, to view its fleet of luxury vehicles. uses a comprehensive web-based go ‘above and beyond,’” Tyler program. said. “Our chauffeurs don’t just sit “We have traditionally used the behind the wheel. We require them to drive safely, but also to driver training program on the chauffeured car side of the company, assist with bags or anything else our clients need. Going ‘above and now have expanded to using it to train bus drivers, as well,” and beyond’ is what keeps our clients coming back. We have a Tyler said. “It is a training program that emphasizes service first,

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and has all the steps for drivers to develop a five-star hospitality “We also have HDMI plugs throughout the Van Hools to allow mentality. passengers to hook up laptops, iPhones, etc.,” Tyler said. “The “We can train people to drive sedans and SUVs, but for buses, buses have large, full-modified parcel racks that include 26-inch prior experience is required.” monitors throughout the vehicle, which people love. It was a big In addition to motorcoaches, EcoStyle’s fleet consists of sedans, selling point for us to have the big TVs throughout. I really think it SUVs, vans and mini-buses. In focusing more on the motorcoach makes the interior of the vehicles stand out. side of the business, in the past year and a half, EcoStyle has taken “We believe in the partnership, service and products ABC pro- delivery of 13 Van Hool TX45s from ABC vides. If anybody is thinking about purchasing Companies, the exclusive North American dis- “If a client wants to go a Van Hool, you can’t go wrong.” tributor of Van Hool coaches. EcoStyle’s other luxury vehicles are also “When we took delivery of our first Van somewhere, and it outfitted with leather appointed seats, Wi-Fi, Hool from ABC, which was in 2018, we ab- makes sense, we will power outlets, HDMI plugs and TVs. solutely fell in love with the coach,” Tyler said. “We have luxury mini-coaches that are, in “We visited the facility and fell in love with take him/her wherever my mind, the top of the line on the market. the people at ABC. After visiting and talking he/she wants to travel.” Every fit and finish is done perfectly. They are with ABC, we knew it was the company we — Scott Tyler, Vice President beautiful buses,” Tyler said. “We take luxury wanted to partner with moving forward. It has to another level, from our sedans all the way proven to be the right decision, as ABC has up to our motorcoaches.” been a great partner for us throughout the past EcoStyle’s leadership and employees are year and a half. Our TX45s are all black coaches. proud of the company’s luxury fleet and go “above and beyond” to “Our sports team passengers love them. And not only sports make sure they look immaculate curbside and on the road. Making clients, our corporate customers who are used to a luxury product sure they are well-maintained is also a high priority. love them as well. The Van Hools are great looking coaches with “We take tremendous pride in having our vehicles meticulously plenty of legroom and many amenities. They have the curb appeal detailed, clean, smelling good and ready to go for every trip,” Tyler we are looking for, and they really mesh well with our overall busi- said. “The way we look at it, we are only as good as our last trip. A ness, and the image we are trying to convey.” dirty bus that doesn’t have curb appeal can start a trip off on a Amenities on the Van Hool coaches include Wi-Fi and leather- wrong note. We make sure that doesn’t happen. appointed interiors. “We have a great set of bus operators who take pride in their

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equipment. They wash vehicles in-between In 2011, Tyler approached Pittman about trips, and when they are on the road, as well. starting a transportation business, and thus They make sure our high standards are EcoStyle was born. maintained, even when they are out on the “We evaluated the idea of starting the road for a three-day tour or a 20-day trip. company, and he was all in,” Tyler said. “In competing with other transportation “So, we started in 2011 and have built the companies in the area, we invite people to business to where it is today.” come and look at our coaches to see how Originally, Tyler and Pittman operated the they are maintained. This is a big selling company out of a five-star hotel and spa in point for us.” the Raleigh suburb of Cary. At that time, EcoStyle was an executive van service, FROM THE DIAMOND TO THE BUS servicing the hotel. The company moved into its current facility about five years ago. coStyle’s headquarters is in what is Before he became a transportation com- called the Research Triangle, so pany executive, Tyler was a professional named because of three major uni- baseball pitcher. He was drafted by the Min- versities in the area. In addition to North nesota Twins in the second round of the ECarolina State University in Raleigh, which 2001 Major League Baseball June Amateur is also the state capital, Duke University is Draft from Downingtown High School, in located in Durham, next door to Raleigh, Downingtown, PA. and the University of North Carolina’s main Tyler’s career spanned eight years — five campus is in nearby Chapel Hill. The cur- EcoStyle’s fleet manager with the Twins organization, two with the rent population of the Raleigh-Durham- is Lynn Richardson. Florida Marlins organization and one with Chapel Hill Combined Statistical Area the Oakland Athletics organization. Ironi- (CSA) is estimated at 2.03 million people. cally, several years before founding Tyler and his co-founder, Brock Pittman, who is also the com- EcoStyle in Raleigh, he played part of the 2006 season in the mi- pany’s president, met in 2008 and became best friends. Pittman nors for the Carolina Mudcats in the Carolina League, based in Ze- founded Royal Parking, a valet parking business, in October 2000. bulon, NC, a suburb of Raleigh.

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(Left photo) EcoStyle’s operation features 24-hour live in-office dispatch. (Center/right photos) Pictured, left to right, are Group/Charter Sales Reps Jim Brown, Chad Chriscoe, Caitlin Conroy and Diane McLean.

So, how did a baseball player get into the transportation indus- “I rode buses playing baseball for years, and now that I own a try? transportation company, I apply a lot of the things I learned during “It wasn’t a plan or a long-term dream, it was something that my travels,” Tyler said. “I have a different vantage point as I have Brock (Pittman) and I decided to do, and, since then, we have come been on 18-hour trips, and have taken buses all over. I know what to absolutely love the transportation industry,” Tyler said. “It is I didn’t like when I was a passenger. Now, I can make sure we elim- something I really enjoy on a day-to-day basis. No day is ever the inate things in our operation that made my trips unpleasant.” same. We love servicing our clients. I’m very invested in our clients Tyler said his experiences as an elite athlete have given him an and look at them as true partners. That is what has kept us strong advantage as he navigates the business world. in the industry. Plus, it is a fun business.” “I know what it feels like to be at the top, but I also know what While he was playing baseball, Tyler rode a lot of buses traveling failure looks like. I know what it is like to be at the bottom,” Tyler from town-to-town. This experience helped shape the way he thinks said. “The ups and downs notwithstanding, I know if you work about bus travel. hard, you can achieve your goals and dreams and be at the top.

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“I worked extremely hard on my baseball career from a young Tyler said EcoStyle’s philosophy on customer service keeps its age. I experienced a lot of failure, but I have also experienced a lot clients center stage. of great things. I apply that to our company today. There are a lot “We are a client-driven organization. We rely on our clients to of ups and downs in business, generally. I was prepared for that by keep us busy, and book year after year,” he said. “As a result of my athletic career. It has translated well for me. I have been able to our high customer service standards, our clients become advocates put it in perspective, and apply the things I learned for our company. That advocacy increases trips, from years of playing into business.” “Operators have increases our outreach and, overall, makes us a to understand better organization. CLIENT-DRIVEN that it is not just a “Every driver has to realize customer service starts with him/her. A lot of times clients talk to our coStyle employs 73 people, who fill many driving job, it is a inside staff on the phone. Our inside team does a positions within the company, from the of- service. It is a great job, and they make the trip happen, but the first fice to dispatch to the road. person customers usually see is the operator. When “We have 24-hour live in-office dispatch, which hospitality job. they see an operator who is smiling and ready to go Eis a huge advantage,” Tyler said. “We employ a cus- Our passengers above and beyond, it really goes a long way.” tomer service staff, as well as sales and safety com- are guests on our After experiencing EcoStyle’s high level of cus- pliance teams. We have fleet and operations tomer service, customers will likely spread the managers, as well as a vehicle washing team. equipment, and word, which drives more work to the company, “We outsource maintenance. We are partnered we need to treat Tyler said. with a great facility about a mile down the road. “Operators have to understand that it is not just a They provide our maintenance, so we don’t have to all of them as if driving job, it is a service. It is a hospitality job. Our keep that in-house, which is nice. they are VIPs.” passengers are guests on our equipment, and we “In addition to motorcoach operators, we have need to treat all of them as if they are VIPs,” Tyler lead bus captains. For our drivers, we require that said. “We don’t see ourselves as a niche company. they wear black pants with a white button-up shirt. We also have We offer tours and we transport athletic teams like everyone else; a really nice vest for them, which is embroidered with our com- however, we put our own touch on it and make sure that we are el- pany name. evating our service levels day in and day out.” “There are some clients, especially sports teams, who prefer op- In its marketing effort, EcoStyle relies on word-of-mouth and its erators wear logoed polo shirts, and we have those as well.” reputation for excellence, rather than big marketing campaigns. Continued On Page 34

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EcoStyle: Even though a larger facility is in EcoStyle’s future, Tyler said Continued From Page 31 the current facility is “beautiful.” “When we moved in, we gutted the building and built it back to “We partner with a lot of local organizations that help us spread how we wanted. However, within the past three months, we con- our name. A lot of it is word-of-mouth,” Tyler said. “Our staff and tracted with a company to source a new facility,” Tyler said. “We our passengers are the best marketing tools. When a client enjoys are going to build it from the ground up and have all the amenities a trip, or when an athletic team is happy, they tell somebody else. and the things we need to continue the growth we have experi- We have conducted most of our marketing by just having our clients enced. We are really excited about this process. So, we will have tell the story. The result is we get a lot of references and recom- a new facility in the next year or so, and it will be state-of-the-art.” mendations, and we use those to further our business. While a new facility is on the horizon, there have been no “I travel quite a bit and meet with our partners and make sure thoughts, as a company, to move out of the area. they are satisfied. We do a lot of marketing that way, as well.” “I love being in the Raleigh-Durham market. We are convenient EcoStyle’s new website, www.ecostyleusa.com, has also been an to just about anywhere on the East Coast,” Tyler said. “It is easy effective marketing tool, Tyler said. to service Florida all the way up to Maine. Furthermore, Interstate “We have put a lot of money into our website. A web design com- 40, which passes through Raleigh, gives us easy access heading pany works with us,” Tyler said. “When we approached them for west. We really like this market and where we are positioned.” our new website, we wanted it to be a little bit different. We wanted it to be nice, clean and easy to use. The feedback has been great. KEEPING UP WITH DEMAND Our clients love its easy use, and the look of the overall design.” coStyle’s rapidly ascending growth curve has not come A NEW FACILITY ON THE WAY without having to overcome some challenges along the way. hen EcoStyle moved into it current facility in Raleigh “We have grown quickly and have faced some challenges, about five years ago, it didn’t have motorcoaches. Now Ewhich we have gotten through,” Tyler said. “When you have the that the company has purchased several of the big buses, high standard we require, hiring the right drivers is a challenge. a new, larger facility is a need, Tyler said. Sometimes it takes a little extra time to hire the right fit. We don’t W“When we moved into this facility, the largest vehicles we had want to just hire somebody to put behind the wheel because were mini-coaches,” Tyler said. “Now, we are bursting at the he/she is qualified to drive, we also want the candidate to be the seams.” L IGHT NE ER W PR CO ODUCT lightweight safety flooring L OR for the transportation industry S

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right fit for our company culture. So, that has been a challenge have a very talented staff here at EcoStyle,” Tyler said. “I trust at times.” our staff wholeheartedly to make decisions that will reflect the While, in some ways, having a hard time keeping up with de- morals of the company. mand is a good problem to have, it is a challenge nonetheless. “A second key is having the right equipment to satisfy our cus- “We don’t like to tell our clients there is no availability. But, tomers’ needs. We listen to our customers. We take feedback. sometimes it is tough to meet the demand we have,” Tyler said. Above and beyond, we have good people, and that is what has “I would say one of the biggest challenges we have faced is just really driven us to be as successful as possible.” meeting the demand with the different universities and corpora- tions in this area. It is a challenge, but it is a good challenge.” TRANSPORTATION A GOOD CAREER CHOICE Challenges notwithstanding, Tyler is optimistic about the future of EcoStyle. n speaking of the field he has chosen, Tyler said he would “The future is bright, especially in the bus segment. I travel to advise someone who is looking for a career path to consider a lot of industry trade shows on both the car and the bus side and the transportation industry. I really see a bright spot in the future for bus and passenger trans- “No two days are the same. It is a unique profession where portation,” Tyler said. “I’m excited about it, and we are going to Iyour office is a large window and you get to see the countryside,” continue to hit the market hard and be as successful as possible.” Tyler said. “It is a great opportunity to travel, to meet fantastic Looking ahead, Tyler also feels the transportation industry as people, to have some flexibility and to work with a great organ- a whole is on good footing. ization. “The transportation industry is strong. There are going to be “We have had a lot of people who started out as operators and some challenges ahead, but overall the economy is very good eventually moved into the office to experience a different side of right now, and people are traveling by bus,” Tyler said. “Further- the business. We believe in promoting from within. I tell people more, athletic teams’ budgets have opened up a little bit, and we there is opportunity here, as we continue to grow.” are capturing a lot of that business at the right time. I think the future is bright for the industry.” Contact: EcoStyle Chauffeured Transportation, In the quest to grow the business, Tyler said operating on the 1312 Kirkland Road, No.117, Raleigh, NC 27603. principles that have made EcoStyle successful thus far will ensure Phone: 919-890-3839. the company continues to thrive. Email: [email protected]. “The No. 1 key to our success is having the right talent. We Website: www.ecostyleusa.com.

September/October 2019 BUSLINE Page 35 busline0919.FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 9/4/19 10:27 AM Page 36

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product portfolio offers increased power with cedes-Benz diesel engines; Freightliner Cus- Voith’s ANS (Automatic Neutral Shift) the robust 505 HP DD13®, the 350 HP tom Chassis Corporation products; Mobile coupled with intelligent start-up manage- DD8™, and the 230 HP DD5™. For maxi- Climate Control products; Thomas Built ment, prevents the engine from working mum uptime and productivity, Detroit™ Con- Buses parts and service dealer; complete di- against the still-active brake during start-up. nect Virtual Technician remote diagnostic agnostic and repair services; Allison-hybrid This reduces unnecessary fuel consumption, ℠ service comes standard on all Detroit engines. electric propulsion and related components; and delivers more sustainable operation 18 filters; batteries; diesel emission and retrofit through reduced CO2, NOx, particulate and solutions. 18 noise emissions. MAN Engines & Components Inc. Voith complements its DIWA.5 and 591 SW 13th Terrace Voith Turbo Inc. DIWA.6 transmissions with its advanced di- Pompano Beach, FL 33069 USA See Article On Page 56 agnostic software, Aladin 6. This software 954-946-9092 25 Winship Rd. makes repairs and maintenance easier by pro- Email: [email protected] York, PA 17406 USA viding access to event memory and runtime Website: www.man-engines.com 717-767-3200 data. The data can be shared easily with a Products: High quality chassis components, Website: www.voith.com Voith service provider if additional trou- transfer cases and bus and heavy-duty truck Products: Voith Turbo produces transit bus bleshooting is required. Aladin 6 diagnostic axles. 19 transmissions worldwide. Voith’s DIWA.6 software is available for free to DIWA owners. bus transmission is exclusively designed for There are no subscription or licensing fees. 19 Stewart & Stevenson use in transit buses. The DIWA.6 offers low- Power Products-Atlantic Division ered fuel consumption and emissions, while ZF Industries, Inc. See Ad On Page 37 ensuring optimal performance and a 777 Hickory Hill Dr. 180 Route 17 South smoother ride. Based on the proven DIWA Vernon Hills, IL 60061 USA Lodi, NJ 07644 USA power-split principle, the transmission deliv- 847-478-6840 201-489-5800 ers seamless starting and braking across a Website: www.zf.com Website: www.atlanticdda.com range of speeds. This results in 50 percent Products: ZF is a global supplier involved Products: Detroit Diesel engine and Allison fewer gear shifts, greater riding comfort and with driveline and chassis technology as well automatic transmission distributor; Mer- significantly reduced driveline wear. as active and passive safety technology. 18

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APTA TRANSform Conference October 13 – 16, New York City n he American Public Transporta- Opening reception access — network- new practices to improve interactions be- tion Association’s 2019 TRANS- ing time with target attendees; and, tween homeless people and transit leaders, n form Conference: a reimagined Exhibits located outside of sessions — front-line and station employees and riders. APTA Annual Meeting, is scheduled for providing access to all attendees; not just TOctober 13-16 at the Marriott Marquis in those who visit the show floor. EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES New York City, NY. Products & Services Showcase Hours There are a variety of educational sessions n APTA’s TRANSform Conference pro- Monday, Oct. 14, noon to 5 p.m. (lunch during APTA’s 2019 TRANSform Confer- vides the latest in policy, technology, and included); ence. Seminar topics include: Cities and n new mobility ideas. Tuesday, Oct. 15, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and, Mobility — Public Transit, New Mobility, n According to APTA, attendees are ex- Wednesday, Oct. 16, 8 a.m. to noon. and Managing the Curb; Creative Funding pected to experience: Opportunities at the State and Local Level; n Powerful keynote speakers to help at- OPENING/GENERAL SESSION Transit’s Link to Health, Wellness, and Liv- tendees see public transit in a different way; & CLOSING EVENT able Communities; Congress and the Year n Unconventional session formats to The Opening General Session, titled Ahead in Transportation; New Mobility and maximize learning and sharing experiences; “TRANSformational Technology,” is from the First Mile/Last Mile; Building an Inclu- n Technical tours that showcase one of 8 to 9:30 a.m, Monday, Oct. 14. sive Mobility Culture — Promoting Diver- the world’s largest public transit systems; Metropolitan Transportation Authority sity and Inclusion for Transportation n A new products and services showcase and New York City Department of Trans- Employees and Customers; New Dynamics format with more hours to extend the time portation will welcome attendees to New in Transit Ridership — What Have We to connect with partners; York City, and share some insights into Learned?; Zero Emission Buses — You’ll n Networking opportunities inside and ways they are transforming public transit in Never Walk Alone; and more. outside the conference to broaden and the region. deepen career relationships; and, The keynote address will be presented by OTHER KEY EVENTS n APTA’s TRANSform Conference will Randi Zuckerberg, Founder & CEO of Other key events at this year’s TRANS- provide the ideas, insights, and connections Zuckerberg Media. She is an entrepreneur, form Conference include: n to help attendees manage the changing mo- investor, bestselling author and tech media Workshop: The Challenges and Oppor- bility environment and the future of public personality. She will discuss her personal tunities of Accessibility within the New transportation. relationship with transformative technol- Mobility Paradigm, from 8 a.m. to noon, ogy, the importance of staying connected to Sunday, Oct. 13; n APTA REGISTRATION HOURS technology, and the value of innovation and This is APTA, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 12 — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. strategies to transform a business. Sunday, Oct. 13; n Sunday, Oct. 13 — 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Closing Event, titled “The Medicine Welcome Reception, from 6 to 8 p.m, Monday, Oct.14 — 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. of Music: How a World-Class Violinist and Sunday, Oct. 13; n Tuesday, Oct. 15 — 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Social Activist Reaches Homeless People A Conversation with New CEOs: An Wednesday, Oct. 16 — 7 to 10 a.m. with Music and What Transit Can Learn,” Executive Roundtable, from 10 a.m. to Pre-registration will close Friday, Octo- is scheduled from 10:45 a.m. to noon on noon, Monday, Oct. 14; n ber 4. Those who are not registered by the Wednesday, October 16. General session: USDOT Update, from pre-registration deadline will need to regis- The session will be led by Vijay Gupta, a 4 to 5 p.m., Monday, Oct. 14; n ter and pay onsite. world-acclaimed violinist, MacArthur Fel- Celebration of Excellence Awards low and a social activist who has made a Breakfast, 8 to 10 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 15; n PRODUCTS & SERVICES second career of using music to connect Session & Mobile Walking Tour: Cli- SHOWCASE with people in need, including homeless mate Resiliency in New York City, 10:30 New features for the 2019 Products & people. a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 15; and, n Services Showcase include: He will highlight why a greater aware- Wednesday Wake Up Breakfast: n Turn-key Kiosk exhibits — providing ness of innovative approaches to connecting TRANSformational Influence — Women and an overall lower cost to the exhibitor; with homeless people who occupy transit Power, 7 to 9:15 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 16. n Exhibits open for three days — more facilities is important. Gupta will also For more information, time with attendees; showcase a fresh foundation for developing visit www.apta.com.

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Austin Mohawk and Company, Inc. solar lighting. All Austin Mohawk shelters BikeLid LLC 2175 Beechgrove Pl. meet or exceed International Building Code P.O. Box 408 Utica, NY 13501 USA (IBC) standards. Fast turnaround times and 3430 Evergreen Point Rd. Toll Free: 888-632-0273 professional installation available anywhere Medina, WA 98039 USA Email: [email protected] in the continental United States. 206-963-7585 Website: www.austinmohawk.com Austin Mohawk has spent more than 80 Website: www.BikeLid.com Products: A selection of pre-manufactured years building prefabricated structures. Product Products: Durable and secure Class 1 (long- structures of bus and transit shelters. Built line-up includes pre-manufactured buildings, term) public parking bike locker. Tough, with high quality aluminum or steel. Shelters shelters, press boxes, and overhead metal lightweight, graffiti resistant polyethylene are durable, attractive, and can be equipped canopies. Custom built structures are modular shell, reinforced by steel, attached by spring- with budget-conscious features such as LED and functional. 19 loaded hinge to a steel bike guide/frame. Pro- EFFICIENCY RELIABILITYITY Air Conditioning Electric PERFORMANCEDiscover electricityNC

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vides protection for one to two full-sized bi- 516-442-3340 Email: [email protected] cycles. Bolts to any ground surface. Any Website: www.columbiaequipment.com Website: www.duo-gard.com color. Standard locking mechanism is secured Products: A North American manufacturer of Products: Duo-Gard transit shelters provide by the bicyclist’s own lock. Optional pre- pre-fabricated aluminum bus shelters. Spec - versatility in size, styles and services that stalled locks include external U or monoblock ializing in this field since 1961. Available in meet goals for aesthetics, performance and locks, and internal key, combination, or on-de- standard and custom designs, in a variety of economy. This versatility is also found with mand electronic locks, including Park-by- sizes and configurations, and in all price Duo-Gard’s canopies, walkways, wind- Phone. 13 ranges. Product line includes bus stop shel- breaks, stairway enclosures, furniture, bike ters, train station shelters, windscreens, smok- racks and other structures needed to complete Brasco International, Inc. ing shelters, walkway canopies, information a project. 19 32400 Industrial Dr. kiosks, ticket vending shelters and custom Madison Heights, MI 48071 USA street furniture. 19 Enseicom, Inc. Toll Free: 800-893-3665 225 Norman Email: [email protected] Daytech Limited Montreal, QC H8R 1A3 CANADA Website: www.brasco.com 70 Disco Rd. 514-486-2626 Products: 100 percent in-house design and Toronto, ON M9W 1L9 CANADA Email: [email protected] fabrication, made in Detroit, MI. Products Toll Free: 877-329-1907 Website: www.enseicom.com include bus stop shelters, BRT station shel- Email: [email protected] Products: Founded in 1982, Enseicom man- ters, bike shelters, transit shelters, solar pow- Website: www.daytechlimited.com ufactures street furniture, billboards, ad- ered LED safety bollards, windscreens, Products: A North American manufacturer of vertising structures and signage in North advertising boxes, solar powered ad box pre-fabricated transit shelters, bike shelters, America. Staffed with a full in-house retrofits, custom glass etching, roof retrofits, canopies, street furniture and transit signage. graphic and technical design team over- benches, bike racks, waste receptacles, shop- Over 60,000 product installations in every cor- seen by civil and structural engineers, En- ping cart corrals, advertising signs, solar ner of the continent. Can customize shelters for seicom constantly designs and develops lighting retrofits, shade shelters, leaning exact requirements. 13 products with superior quality, durability rails, covered walkways and canopies. 14 and serviceability, all the while maintain- Duo-Gard Industries, Inc. ing state-of-the-art designs. Columbia Equipment Co., Inc. 40442 Koppernick Rd. It manufactures a wide array of prod- 72 Albany Ave. Canton, MI 48187 USA ucts which include: bus shelters, rapid Freeport, NY 11520 USA 734-207-9700 transit shelters, parking booths, benches,

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newspaper boxes, waste containers, bike racks, billboards, street Products: Provides transit shelters, smoking shelters, bicycle shelters, level advertising columns, interior signage, and outdoor signage. covered walkways, canopies, advertisement signs and street furniture. With over 100,000 square feet of combined manufacturing and The company offers both power and off-grid options. All shelters are storage facilities, Enseicom is equipped to handle projects of any made with aluminum extrusions and components. Only stainless steel size across North America and the Caribbean. 18 hardware is used during assembly. The company powder coats to AAMA2604 and 2605 standards. Ships to, and can install anywhere, Handi-Hut, Inc. in North America. 12 3 Grunwald St. Clifton, NJ 07013 USA Poligon by PorterCorp 973-614-1800 4240 136th Ave. Email: [email protected] Holland, MI 49424 USA Website: www.handi-hut.com 616-888-3500 Products: Bus shelters, smoking shelters, entry canopies, covered Website: www.poligon.com walkways, and solar lighting. 17 Products: Standard and custom shade coverings for applications in steel, fabric and wood. Structures include transit shelters, walkway Madrax / Thomas Steele covers, pavilions, trellises, signs and fabric shade. An experienced sales 1080 Uniek Dr. staff can guide customers through the entire process and will work with Waunakee, WI 53597 USA them from initial design to completed installation. A wide selection of 608-849-1080 standard shelters can be fully customized. Frame finishes are available Email: [email protected] in smooth and textured colors. The company also offers a variety of Website: www.madrax.com, roof types and colors. 19 www.thomas-steele.com Products: Maker of heavy-duty, high quality bike racks. 12 Tolar Manufacturing Co. 258 Mariah Cir. Mountain Shelter Solutions Carona, CA 92879 USA 6950 Base Line Toll Free: 800-339-6165 Wallaceburg, ON N8A 1A1 CANADA Email: [email protected] 877-588-8858 Website: www.tolarmfg.com Email: [email protected] Products: Since 1991, Tolar Manufacturing has been producing transit shel- Website: www.mountainsheltersolutions.com ters, kiosks, benches and trash receptacles. 19

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BusCon Tradeshow Scheduled For September 23 - 25 In Indianapolis etworking, education and technol- 2 - 5:15 p.m. the best practices for maintenance of diesel ogy will be highlighted during the BusCon Connect — The Express Route engines in transit applications. The session annual BusCon tradeshow, sched- To New Business Connections will focus on recommended maintenance in- uled for September 23-25, at the Indiana BusCon Connect Schedule: terval schedules, new procedures and after- NConvention Center, located in downtown Welcome Reception 2 - 2:30 p.m. — treatment support. Indianapolis, IN. Room 126 Presenters: Kyle McDonald and Ryan Transportation markets served at BusCon One-On-One Appointments Vaughn, Cummins. include: tour and charter, public and com- 2:30 - 5:15 p.m. — Room 127/128 munity transit, college and university, lim- Designed to connect operator buyers with 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. ousine, retirement community, parking and exhibiting suppliers. Welcome Reception — TBA garage, hotel and resort, casino, religious, assisted living, paratransit, leasing, car 3 - 4 p.m. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 rental and corporate. 3 Ways To Pull Ahead Of Your 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. The exhibition hall for this year’s Bus- Competition — Room 122 Registration Open — Con will be open from noon to 5 p.m. on Suggested for limo, motorcoach and shut- Wabash West Foyer Tuesday, September 24; and from 11 a.m. tle operators, attendees will learn how in- to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25. dustry leaders “drive measurable impact” 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. Attendees will see new models of buses, through new programs, and how to imple- How To Provide Better, More Efficient motorcoaches, vans and other equipment, ment those strategies for any fleet operation. Transportation Options (Concurrent along with a wide variety of industry-re- Presenter: Sherry Wu, Samsara. Session) — Room 122 lated supplies and services. Public transit operators are looking at Guest speakers, workshops, seminars and 3 - 4 p.m. ways to reinvent services. This session will panel discussions will also be a part of this Transit Maintenance Forum: The Bene- discuss ways that can be effective, including year’s event. Visitors will learn about the fits Of Prognostics And Telematics In route optimization, app-based on-demand latest in alternative fuels and other green The Maintenance Shop — Room 125 services and microtransit. technologies; autonomous vehicles; telem- Using prognostics and telematics can Presenters: Gary Blazinsky and Jodi atics; safety; accessible transportation; reg- help maintenance teams be more efficient Glock, Hartford Transit LINK. ulatory issues; training and more. while saving money. This session will focus on how prognostics can help elimi- 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. BUSCON nate unnecessary oil and filter changes by From Pilot To Prevalent: Key Considera- SCHEDULE monitoring various operating parameters, tions For Embracing Electric Buses’ Fu- (Current as of August 15, 2019 / while telematics can help provide remote ture Adoption (Concurrent Session) — Seminar descriptions courtesy of BusCon) analysis of transmission diagnostic and Room 123 prognostic information across an entire This session will focus on the latest con- MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 fleet of vehicles. siderations for the private and public sectors Noon - 5 p.m. Presenter: TBA when turning to electric buses, including: Registration Open — innovations in bus charging solutions; en- Wabash West Foyer 4 - 4:15 p.m. ergy management; and ways to reduce ad- Session: Transit Asset Management Networking Break — ministrative overheads while increasing Implementation For Tier II Providers Wabash West Foyer efficiency. & Sponsors — Room 124 To ELD And Beyond — Room 122 Presenters: Mark Kerstens, ChargePoint; This course provides an overview of, and Now that many limo and motorcoach op- Chelsea Hohensee, MetroLINK. implementation guidance for, Tier II erators have installed their ELD systems, at- providers intending to comply with the tendees will learn what technology and Transit Asset Management (TAM) Final services have been developed to take them 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. Rule (49 CFR 625). The course is directed to the next level of compliance monitoring. How Compliance With New CDL at mid- and senior-level managers from Presenters: Tom Holden, Bus Advisors; Requirements Can Help Your Operation TAM Plan sponsoring agencies (Group Mike McDonal, Saucon Technologies. (Concurrent Session) — Room 124 Plan Sponsors and Group Plan Opt-outs), The MAP-21 compliance date of Febru- who will be responsible for the implemen- 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. ary 2020 is fast approaching. This session tation of the TAM Final Rule within their Transit Maintenance Forum: will focus on identifying how to comply agencies. Best Practices For Maintenance Of with the expectations of MAP-21, while Presenter: Margaret Akofio-Sowah . Diesel Engines — Room 125 also providing insights into how companies Attendees will take part in a discussion on might have to change their driver manage-

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ment strategies. The session will cover how transit resources Presenter: Mark Szyperski, President/ Presenters: Tim Ammon, Transpar are used and destination decisions are made in CEO, On Your Mark Transportation. Group; Jeff Cassell, Motor Coach Safety a data-driven transit technology world. Training Company. Presenters: Mitch Skyer, Passio Tech- 9:45 - 10:45 a.m. nologies; Scott Conroy, First Transit. Transit Maintenance Forum: 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. What Maintenance Personnel Need To Transit Maintenance Forum: How 9:45 - 10:45 a.m. Know About All-Electric Buses Cloud-Based Mobile Technology Can Integrating Autonomous Vehicles With — Room 125 Make Maintenance Easier — Room 125 Other Transportation Options Transit agency techs/mechanics need to Easy to deploy and simple to use, cloud- (Concurrent Session) — Room 123 familiarize themselves with all-electric based technology can provide a strong impact This presentation will discuss how to high voltage transit vehicles. This session in the maintenance shop. This session will plan and design new autonomous and dri- will take a look at required personal pro- focus on how asset maintenance can help verless mobility services and integrate tective equipment, and preparations that companies simplify the cloud-based process, them into public transit networks, with ex- are necessary prior to working on, or near, make gains in efficiency, improve compli- amples and lessons learned from real- high-voltage systems. ance and keep a shop in a state of good repair. world deployments. The session is Presenter: Mike Brock, SCRTTC. A look into the future of automated mainte- suggested for transit, paratransit and shut- nance, digitized maintenance instruction and tle operators. 10:45 - 11 a.m. manuals will also be discussed. Presenters: Warren Perry, Senior Direc- Networking Break — Presenter: G Satish, CEO, Connixt. tor Business Development, Bestmile; Jeff Wabash West Foyer Peterson, First Transit. 9:30 - 9:45 a.m. 11 a.m. - Noon Networking Break — 9:45 - 10:45 a.m. Keynote Address Wabash West Foyer Stop Recruiting By Starting To Retain Speaker: Chris Pangilinan Motorcoach Drivers (Concurrent — Room 120/121 9:45 - 10:45 a.m. Session) — Room 124 Chris Pangilinan is the head of global How Tech Can Transform Your Suggested for limo, motorcoach and shut- policy for public transportation at Uber. In Transportation Operation (Concurrent tle operators, this session will focus on this role, Pangilinan works to help transit Session) — Room 122 ways to better retain drivers. agencies and riders harness Uber’s technol-

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ogy platform to make transit more conven- Best For You? — Room 122 New With Altoona Bus Testing? — ient and easier to use. This session will discuss different al- Room 125 ternative fuels, and which ones may be The session will provide an update on Noon - 5 p.m. the best fit for small, medium and large testing procedures, as well as a Q&A with Exhibit Hall Open vehicles. Altoona Testing officials. And Lunch (Noon - 2 p.m.) Presenter: Jeff Clarke, NGV America; Presenters: David Klinikowski, Direc- Michael Taylor, Propane Education & Re- tor, Bus Research and Testing, Assistant Re- 12:45 - 3 p.m. search Council. search Professor, Larson Transportation Illinois Limo & Bus Association - Institute, Penn State University; Stephen Midwest Operators Meeting — 9 - 10 a.m. Brady, Booz Allen Hamilton. Room 125 Transit Maintenance Forum: Risk Management In The World Of 10:15 - 11:15 a.m. 3 - 5 p.m. Emerging Outbreak — Room 125 Rural And Tribal Networks: A Tapestry Happy Hour In Exhibit Hall Attendees will learn how to keep their Of Connected Service — Room 122 fleets operational during a biological sen- This presentation will provide an 6 - 8 p.m. tinel event. Topics include understanding overview of challenges and opportunities BusCon Night On The Town — TBA key mandates and infection control proto- facing rural and tribal transit today, as well cols, and how to successfully navigate as explore where opportunities to partner WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 through the challenges brought about by with private operators exist and how to de- 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. contagious diseases that threaten today’s velop them. Registration Open — transportation network. Presenter: Robin Phillips, National Wabash West Foyer Presenter: Frances Grinstead, CEO, RTAP. CURIS 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 8 - 8:45 a.m. 10 - 10:15 a.m. Exhibit Hall Open Breakfast And Awards Ceremony — Networking Break — And Lunch (Noon - 1:30 p.m.) Room 120/121 Wabash West Foyer Visit www.busconexpo.com 9 - 10 a.m. 10:15 - 11:15 a.m. for more information. Which Alternative Fuel Is Transit Maintenance Forum: What’s

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BUSLINE VEHICLE SHOWCASE:

Motor Coach Industries Motor Coach Industries

MCI® D45 CRT LE MCI® J4500/J3500

A new era in passenger accessibility and workhorse performance is MCI introduces important advances on the best-selling MCI J4500, here. Built for Commuter Rapid Transit (CRT), the MCI D45 CRT LE delivers and a great new arrival – a compact MCI J3500 to meet increasing de- all the advantages of a proven high-floor design, combined with a break- mand for a smaller coach. Featuring all the styling and performance of through Low-Entry (LE) vestibule for unprecedented accessibility, espe- the 45-foot MCI J4500, with a maximum seating capacity of 60, the MCI cially for passengers using mobility devices. J3500 seats 40 to 44 passengers, and offers top baggage capacity The ADA- and Buy America-compliant model was developed with eval- among all 35-foot vehicles. uations from the National Council on Independent Living and the Amer- Both models have best-in-class legroom and comfort for the driver, ican Association for People with Disabilities, among others. Features with a new high-definition instrument panel that provides key system include an automatic curb-level ramp that accommodates a wider variety messaging including tire pressure status, engine DPF regeneration no- of mobility aids such as next-generation motorized wheelchairs. The for- tices and more. ward door features an ergonomically-designed spiral entryway, enhanced A new swing-out styled electric e-fan cooling package provides full lighting and supportive grab rails for comfort and visibility at entry. roadside engine access and fuel-efficiency improvements. A backup The dual-entry technology cuts dwell times to match low-floor transit camera system and optional ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Sys- boarding times. Spacious, comfortable seating accommodates 54 pas- tems), with collision mitigation, are upgrades to the latest-generation sengers overall, adjusting to 52 when accommodating two passengers Bendix Fusion and bird’s-eye view 360° camera system. with mobility devices. Model variants underway include battery-electric propulsion, and a full high-floor coach model with or without a wheel- Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., chair lift. Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: [email protected]; Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Website: www.mcicoach.com Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: [email protected]; Website: www.mcicoach.com Model ...... J4500/J3500 Overall Length ...... 45.58’/35’ Model ...... D45 CRT LE Overall Height ...... 140.75” Seating Capacity...... Up to 54 Seating Capacity...... Up to 60/Up to 44 Overall Length ...... 45’ Headroom...... 78.25” Overall Height...... 138” Wheelbase...... 315”/228.8” Headroom...... 78.25” Turning radius ...... 40’ 11”/32’ 10” Wheelbase...... 315” Fuel Tank Capacity ...... 183 gal./164 gal. Turning Radius...... 40’ 11” Suspension...... Independent front & tag Fuel Tank Capacity ...... 164 gal. GVWR...... 54,000 / 42,000 lbs. Fuel Options...... Clean-diesel, Battery-electric Engine...... Cummins X12, 410 hp or 455 hp; GVWR ...... 54,000 lbs. optional Detroit Diesel DD13 410 or 450hp also with engine brake, Engine Options...... Cummins X12 or all-electric high-torque or the Cummins L9, 350hp, 1150 lb-ft torque with engine brake Siemens electric drive system Transmission...... Gen V Allison B500, 6-speed automatic Transmission...... Allison B500 with prognostics capability Brakes...... Bendix® ADB22X™ Air Disc Brakes Brakes...... Bendix® ADB22X™ Air Disc Brakes

September/October 2019 BUSLINE Page 47 busline0919.FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 9/4/19 10:27 AM Page 48

BUSLINE VEHICLE SHOWCASE:

BYD BYD

K9 K11

BYD’s 40-foot bus is the company’s best-selling model, and works BYD’s 60-foot articulated transit bus is perfect for moving large great in medium and large cities—or anywhere customers need to numbers of passengers. With a capacity of up to 45 seated passen- transport larger numbers of passengers, but don’t need the ex- gers plus 65 standing (110 total), it is ideal for urban transit systems tended capacity of BYD’s 60-foot articulated bus. and high-volume shuttles of all kinds—including airports, sport ven- Using no fossil fuels of any kind, BYD’s battery-electric buses are ues, performing arts centers, and parking. the cleanest, safest, most cost-effective way to move people from Using no fossil fuels of any kind, BYD’s battery-electric buses are point to point. the cleanest, safest, most cost-effective way to move people from BYD brings dependable, zero-emission service to public trans- point to point. portation, university campuses, airports and corporate campuses— BYD brings dependable, zero-emission service to public trans- all at a lower total cost of ownership than diesel or CNG. Clean air portation, university campuses, airports and corporate campuses— and quiet communities now go hand-in-hand with affordable trans- all at a lower total cost of ownership than diesel or CNG. Clean air portation. and quiet communities now go hand-in-hand with affordable transportation. BYD 1800 S Figueroa Street, BYD Los Angeles, CA 90015 1800 S Figueroa Street, Phone: 800-BYD-AUTO Los Angeles, CA 90015 Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-BYD-AUTO Website: www.byd.com Email: [email protected] Website: www.byd.com

Model...... K9 Model ...... K11 Length...... 40.2’ Length...... 60.7’ Width...... 101.6” Width...... 101.6” Height ...... 134” Height ...... 134” Engine...... Wheel-hub motors Engine...... Wheel-hub motors Electrical System ...... Zero-emissions high voltage Electrical System ...... Zero-emissions high voltage Chassis...... Three-steel Chassis...... Three-steel HVAC...... High-tech BYD, optimized for electrical propulsion HVAC...... High-tech BYD, optimized for electrical propulsion Wheelchair Lift ...... Ricon Wheelchair Lift ...... Ricon Steering...... Douglas, tilt and telescope Steering...... Douglas, tilt and telescope Suspension...... Air (with mechanical) Suspension ...... Air suspension Seating Capacity...... 37+1 Seating Capacity ...... 47-55 Wheelbase...... 246.1” Wheelbase...... 238.5/275.6”

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BUSLINE VEHICLE SHOWCASE:

BYD Prevost

Prevost X3-45 Commuter Coach

The iconic Prevost X3-45® sets a higher standard for a unique and upscale intercity commuter coach. The X3-45 Commuter™ provides a smooth, quiet ride for a relaxing commuting environment. Designed to provide quality, performance, and safety. Buy America compliant, Exova certified for structural integrity and Altoona Double Decker C10MS tested for superior product value and lifecycle efficiency, the X3-45 Commuter coach offers proven performance for the nation’s most demanding commuter routes. Developed with a focus on transit operation concerns such as passenger BYD’s all-new 45-foot double decker coach is turning heads safety, accessibility, low operation costs and ease of maintenance, the vehicle around the world. Ideal as a sightseeing coach or a transit bus offers the lowest overall height in the premium intercity coach market; while where high capacity is needed, but a longer articulated bus might maintaining a best-in-class floor-to-ceiling height of 80 inches. A rider’s com- not be practical. Upper and lower levels provide panoramic views mute is remarkably smooth and comfortable thanks to the longest wheelbase in the industry, while accessibility is enhanced by the revolutionary Swap & Plug of the landscape and tourist attractions. Wheelchair Lift system, front kneeling suspension, and bi-fold doors that open Passengers will experience one of the most comfortable rides to a passenger-friendly stairway in the expansive entrance. available—and step off feeling good about their contribution to The Prevost X3-45 Commuter includes three-point seat belts on a 20G rated cleaner air. Using no fossil fuels of any kind, BYD’s coaches are the welded rail system for an exceptionally secure passenger environment. Addi- cleanest, safest, most cost-effective way to move people from point tionally, the coach can be outfitted with a WiFi system, state-of-the-art sound and video, and electrical outlets at each seat to keep passengers plugged in to point. and in touch while commuting. BYD Prevost: 7900 National Service Rd., Greensboro, NC 27409 1800 S Figueroa Street, Tel: 877-773-8678 Email: [email protected] Website: www.prevostcar.com Los Angeles, CA 90015 Phone: 800-BYD-AUTO Model...... Prevost X3-45 Commuter Coach Email: [email protected] Seating Capacity ...... 57 Length...... 45’ Website: www.byd.com Width ...... 102” Height...... 134” Wheelbase...... 334.5” Model...... Double decker C10MS Overhang (front/rear)...... 72.30”; 86.60” Length...... 45’ Inside Height (min./max.) ...... Floor to ceiling - 80” Width ...... 102” Turning Radius...... 45.6’ Height ...... 13.4’ Tire Size...... 315/80 R22.5 Engine...... Wheel-hub motors Engine ...... EPA Compliant Volvo D13 w/DPF and SCR, 445 HP, 13L Electrical System ...... Zero-emissions high voltage Transmission ...... Allison World, 5th gen., 6-speed auto. trans. Brakes...... All-Wheel disc. w/ABS Chassis...... Three-steel Fuel Tank Capacity ...... 183 U.S. gal. HVAC...... High-tech BYD, optimized for electrical propulsion Air Conditioning ...... Bitzer 4FNCY Wheelchair Lift ...... Ricon Baggage Capacity...... 513 cu. ft. Steering...... Douglas, tilt and telescope Wheelchair Lift Option...... Interchangeable swap & plug Suspension...... Air suspension w/mechanical leveling valves Steering...... Steering wheel w/integrated controls, tilt & telescopic, and Seating Capacity...... Up to 77+1 integral power steering, (variable assistance power steering available) Wheelbase ...... 283.3/53.1” Suspension ...... Wide-stance tuned suspension w/liftable tag axle

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BUSLINE VEHICLE SHOWCASE:

Nova Bus Alexander Dennis Inc

LFS HEV® (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) Enviro500

Based on the proven performance of the LFS platform, the LFS HEV® Designed exclusively to meet the requirements of the North Amer- (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) upgrades its already advanced fuel-efficient ican market, and with various interior specifications, the Enviro500 engineering by adding a powerful, ultra-low emissions hybrid drive to is the world’s best-selling 3-axle double-deck bus. Offering the unique cut fuel and maintenance costs. combination of high capacity and comfort for transit and interurban Given optimal operating conditions, the LFS HEV offers up to 30 per- journeys, Enviro500 is the ideal solution for carrying large numbers cent reduction in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions com- of passengers, while occupying a smaller road space. pared to conventional diesel-powered buses. Other benefits include a Low-floor and easy-to-access, the Enviro500 is constructed on a significant reduction in noise levels, particularly at the rear of the ve- stainless steel chassis with a lightweight aluminum body structure, hicle and outside. Nova Bus offers two different types of hybrid systems: parallel and making it more fuel efficient with industry-leading reliability, lowest series. In both parallel and series vehicles, braking energy normally lost cost-of-ownership and best-in-class aftermarket support. With stunning as heat is recuperated through a generator and stored in the rooftop street presence, it occupies the same footprint as a conventional sin- batteries. That’s why hybrid technologies are best suited for frequent gle-deck bus, is “Buy America” compliant and Altoona-tested and, due stop-and-go conditions. to its low height, can operate with ease across the USA and Canada. Also available, the high-capacity LFS Artic HEV is an attractive alternative for growing cities focused on sustainable development. Starts and stops are smooth and the ride is stable, even in snowy conditions; the end result is a more enjoyable passenger experience. Developing vehicles to help cities meet their sustainability objectives is part of Nova Bus’ vision to be the leader in green efficiency and Electro Mobility.

Nova Bus 260 Banker Road • Plattsburgh, NY 12901 Alexander Dennis Inc Phone: 518-566-6682 • Website: www.novabus.com 31566 Railroad Canyon Road #342 Email: [email protected] Canyon Lake, CA 92587-9446 USA Tel: 951-244-9429 Model ...... LFS HEV Fax: 951-755-0318 Seating Capacity...... up to 41 Website: www.alexander-dennis.com Length...... 40’ Width ...... 102” Model...... Enviro500 Height...... 132” Seating Capacity...... Up to 86 seats Engine ...... Cummins B6.7 280 HP Length...... 42 ft., 5 in. (12931 mm) Traction Drive...... Allison H 40 EP, BAE HDS200 Width...... 8 ft., 3 in. (2520 mm) Chassis ...... Stainless Steel Integral Height ...... 13 ft., 6 in. (4115 mm) Fuel ...... Diesel-electric Hybrid Engine...... Cummins ISL9 EPA2017 six-cylinder 380 HP Air Conditioning...... Thermo King, MCC Type of Fuel...... Diesel Wheelchair Lift Option...... Lift-U, Fedico Chassis ...... ADI Enviro500 Brakes...... ABS all-wheel disc brakes with traction control Air Conditioning ...... Thermo King Radiator ...... Nova eCooling - electric cooling system Wheelchair Lift Option...... Ricon 1:6 Floor...... Low Steering ...... ZF

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BUSLINE VEHICLE SHOWCASE:

REV Group REV Group

Champion LF Transport ElDorado AeroTech The Champion LF Transport offers equal access, comfort, and dignity With over 30 years of experience, ElDorado can build the ideal for all passengers in a vehicle everyone can appreciate. Passengers and cutaway bus to suit any needs while delivering safety, comfort and operators alike will be pleased with the spacious interior cabin, smooth dependability. When purchasing any ElDorado model from an au- vehicle ride, and panoramic views seen through the large windows. A thorized dealer, customers also get four decades of organizational uniformly-sloped Equalizer Ramp™ and a variety of kneeling options are experience and expertise. the essence of accessability. A member of the ElDorado “Aero” product line, the AeroTech has Other features include: a reputation for dependability and long lasting service. The • Three suspension options to choose from — Non-Kneeling OEM AeroTech’s rustproof composite fiberglass body produces a clean, Spring, Squat™Hydraulic Kneeling, and FlexBus™ Electronic Kneeling; modern look that holds up through time and the toughest of envi- • Industry’s only bus manufacturer that is Ford QVM certified to build ronments. low-floor models on the E and F Series cutaway chassis. Available in gas, The AeroTech is Altoona tested for 7 years/200,000 miles, and is diesel or 91G OEM hardened-engine package for alternative fuels while the only vehicle in its class to be crash tested in an automotive test- retaining the OEM engine warranties; ing facility. The ElDorado AeroTech’s steel reinforced fiberglass com- • First-ever transit front cap with large panoramic forward observa- posite body is highly resistant to impact, rust, and corrosion, and tion windows for enhanced aestheics and passenger views, while still fiberglass body panels provide passengers with a quiet interior. adhering to FMVSS 220 rollover testing standards; and, The AeroTech is manufactured in an ISO 9001:2008-certified com- • Maintaining the integrity of the driveline, the LF Transport upholds Ford’s rigorous QVM standards, allowing the OEM warranties to be hon- mercial vehicle manufacturing facility to offer best overall value ored at local Ford service centers. Technology drives accessibility. and legendary reliability.

Champion Bus ElDorado 331 Graham Rd. • Imlay City, MI 48444 1655 Wall St. • Salina, KS 67401 800-776-4943/810-724-6474 • Fax: 810-724-1844 800-850-1287 • Fax: 785-823-9471 Email: [email protected] • www.championbus.com Email: [email protected] www.eldorado-bus.com Model...... LF Transport™with CNG Seating Capacity...... Up to 27 passengers Model...... AeroTech Length ...... 24’-29’ Seating Capacity...... Up to 29 Width...... 96”-102” Length ...... Up to 301” Height...... 110”-117” Width...... 96” Engine ...... 6.8L Gas, 6.7L Diesel, 91G CNG (Ford), Height ...... 115” 6.6L Gas, 6.6L Diesel (GM) Engine ...... Ford 6.8L or 6.2L V8 Gas, Chevy 6.0L V8 Gas Transmission...... 5 or 6-speed automatic Transmission...... 6-speed automatic Chassis...... Ford E-450, Ford F-550, GM 4500 Chassis...... E450 or Chevy 4500 Air Conditioning...... Customer preference Air Conditioning ...... ACT Climate Control Wheelchair Lift...... Equalizer Ramp™ Wheelchair Lift...... Braun or Ricon Steering...... OEM Steering...... Power Suspension ...... Electronic Air Ride Suspension...... OEM, Heavy-duty suspension available as option Wheelbase...... 186”, 189”, 195”, 208”, 240” Wheelbase ...... 138”-182”

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ADVERTORIAL LiquidSpring™ Smart Suspension LiquidSpring is a smart suspension in ride harshness compared to stiff system that automatically and instanta- standard bus suspensions. Drivers ex- neously changes the spring stiffness perience less fatigue and safer han- and damping at each wheel in response dling. A smoother ride is not just a to road and driving conditions. When luxury. The practical advantage is that the road’s rough, the ride is soft and longer shifts are possible when the smooth. When the vehicle makes sharp driver stays comfortably in his/her seat turns, corners, or emergency evasive and upright. The constant fight against maneuvers, the suspension stiffens to sway and neck-snapping induced by provide superior stability and elimi- the road with a traditional suspension nates roll. Thanks to the on board can be very tiring. processor, the suspension adapts and Conceived over 20 years ago, Liq- makes adjustments without driver inter- uidSpring began with large off-high- vention for a fluid, seamless experience. way mining equipment, where we In short, we named our company pioneered our suspension system to reduce LiquidSpring because it is the heart of operator injury from extreme conditions. our system. It’s a shock-absorbing liq- The new strut was filled with a unique uid, enhanced with smart controls to pressurized compressible liquid capable of bring you the right-sized spring for supporting vehicle load and damping in a every moment, instead of a one-size- single element. LiquidSpring continues to fits-all metal spring solution. develop products for other Class 3-7 on- highway truck and military markets as well as providing sales, ap- How Does This Improve Buses? plication, manufacturing, distribution and service of their products. LiquidSpring gives everyone, from transit riders to luxury tour bus passengers, the ultimate luxury suspension for stability and Contact sales at 765-474-7816 comfort. Drivers and passengers alike notice a substantial reduction or visit liquidspring.com to learn more.

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Prevost Celebrates 95 Years The 95th anniversary of Prevost was commemorated in Sainte-Claire, Quebec, in June with a celebration that included food, live music and other entertainment, coaches to explore and tours of the Prevost manufacturing plant.

Founded in Quebec in 1924 by cabinet and woo - den bus builder, Eugene Prevost, the company is the oldest coach manufacturer in North America. Guests including past and present employees, govern- ment officials and people from the community at- tended. The extensive vehicle display at the celebration featured current Prevost model coaches — including the newly redesigned X3- 45, a converted motorhome and a corporate coach as well as a mobile service van and a 1952 Prevost Citadin antique bus, restored by the Heritage Society of Sainte- Claire. “The 95th Anniversary celebration in Quebec was a huge success as we had more than 4,500 people joining us at the factory,” said Prevost General Manager Francois Tremblay. “I’m honored that so many families and special guests were there to celebrate with their Prevost family. We take great pride in what we do, and to be able to share 95 years of such strong heritage with our community was a very special experience for us.” Prevost is a manufacturer of premium intercity touring coaches and produces conversion coaches for high-end motorhome and specialty conversion.

Visit www.prevostcar.com. Shown is a 1952 Prevost Citadin antique bus, restored by the Heritage Society of Sainte-Claire.

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Transit Sales International Launches New Website Transit Sales International (TSI) has a new website, transit- dustry leader. We are taking the opportunity to modernize how we sales.com, promoting its pre-owned buses. TSI’s website also represent our association and promote the industry in which we displays resources and information for transit operators, as well operate to our customers and employees,” said Kallie Arevalo, as updates and news about TSI and its affiliate companies, Com- marketing manager at CCW. plete Coach Works (CCW) and Shuttle Bus Leasing. The fully re- The TSI website will be continually updated with new inventory designed website provides customers with an intuitive user listings and resources. Visitors can also sign up for TSI’s mailing interface, ease of use, faster navigation, and improved search, ac- list to receive the latest company news and information. cording to the company. Transit Sales International (TSI) is an affiliated company of “It is important that new and repeat visitors access our in- Complete Coach Works and Shuttle Bus Leasing. ventory easily, find inspiration and immediately gain a better Contact Brad Carson at 800-287-7253 understanding of the TSI brand and everything it has to offer,” or [email protected] for more information. Director of Sales and Marketing Brad Carson said. “We are excited about our new website and the exceptional value it offers our customers. We want to make the vehicle acquisition JTA’s Study Shows Impact Of Transit process as simple and easy as possible, and this streamlined On Northeast Florida Economy site allows clients to identify buses that would be ideal addi- tions to their fleets.” The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) commissioned TSI said it has over 1,000 buses of all sizes immediately avail- a study in partnership with the University of North Florida’s Cog- able for any transportation application. The new website lets vis- gin College of Business to look at the impact transit has on north- itors see the full inventory of alternative fuel buses, low- and east Florida’s economy. high-floor buses, motorcoaches, prison transports and specialty The “Economic Impact Study of Jacksonville Transportation Au- transit buses. Each listing provides detailed specifications to help thority (JTA) Operations, 2018,” concluded that JTA’s total eco- operators identify the sizes, interior material types, and seating nomic output exceeded $198.8 million in 2018, and that JTA configurations that best fit their fleet needs. services saved customers more than $23.4 million in transporta- “The site redesign and content reflect TSI’s ability to showcase tion-related expenses. our competitive strengths and further position our brand as an in- To view the entire study, contact [email protected].

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Suffolk Transportation Service: Continued From Page 22 “It’s an industry that allows people to perform important work. They often get to see the physical result of their hard work,” he J. Corrado continues to help us find good solutions to different said. “There are different challenges every day that need to be challenges. He is willing to invest in those solutions for the future solved in the transportation field. However, that helps build the health of the company, and to make “You can really make a difference in self-worth of professionals who solve transportation better for everyone. those challenges. You can really make “That now includes the operation of this industry for a lot of people.” a difference in this industry for a lot our four electric buses, which will be of people. a learning experience. We are looking “Without our buses, for example, forward to receiving and understanding a lot of data from those there would be many children who could not participate in after- vehicles. That will help us make some big decisions when it school programs. A lot of people, from different walks of life, comes to further electrifying our fleet.” count on our services in a variety of ways. That is true for the en- Advanced technology is also helping Suffolk Transportation tire bus transportation industry.” Service reach new groups of passengers, including a greater focus on “choice” riders. Those are people willing to leave their Contact: Suffolk Transportation Service/Suffolk Bus Corp., cars at home and take more trips on a bus. Technology designed 10 Moffitt Blvd., Bay Shore, NY 11706. to attract such riders includes programs providing live route in- Phone: 631-665-3245. formation, allowing people to use an app to see where a specific Website: www.suffolkbus.com. bus is located and when it will arrive at a particular stop. Technology helping passengers pay their fares faster and more conveniently is also a major smart growth objective. “We are always trying to grow our ridership and come up with different transportation models for the general public. That includes microtransit (a flexible routing and scheduling system often involving minibus vehicles), which is something we are looking at with Suffolk County officials for the near future.” Despite the possibilities that advanced technology can bring to the table, the “nuts and bolts” of transportation success still comes down to providing trips that customers want and need, along with quality customer service, according to Smith. “We always want to be available for our customers. That includes helping them deal with difficult situations. It’s our goal to have the right resources in place to help solve all types of problems when it comes to transportation,” he said. “A lot of that has to do with keeping the lines of communication open within our management teams, enabling us to remain proactive. “Ultimately, we want to be a partner to our customers when it comes to their transportation decisions and help support them on a continual basis.” Smith, who has spent his career involved with several transportation-related companies, remains a strong advocate of the bus industry. He said it is not only a safe and efficient way to move people to where they want to go, but provides solid careers as well.

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ADVERTORIAL Voith’s DIWA.6 Is ‘The Transit Bus Transmission’ Florida Transit Agency’s Success With DIWA Includes Units That Have Gone ‘Untouched’ For 500,000 Miles

A day in the life of a transit bus transmission is one of endless selves time and again. They are just incredibly durable. We’ve al- starts and stops, countless gearshifts and the long, slow guzzle of ways had great support from Voith, too. These transmissions are fuel. While this daily grind can be costly in terms of fuel and well worth the investment,” de la Rosa explained, noting that his maintenance needs, one transit agency on Florida’s Gulf Coast staff of 10 also appreciates that Voith offers free diagnostic soft- found a way to curb these costs— with Voith’s DIWA.6. ware and online access to parts and service manuals. Serving multiple municipalities in west central Florida, Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) runs 19 fixed routes Monday through Saturday. It also offers three trolleys every day of the year that take tourists and residents to the region’s beautiful beaches. As a result of this busy schedule, its fleet of vehicles travels more than 2 million miles a year and carries 1.3 million passengers. To meet those transportation demands, MCAT has opted to use Voith’s line of DIWA transmissions for more than 25 years. Why stick to just one manufacturer? Because DIWA does its job so well. “DIWAs have been a game changer,” Nicholas de la Rosa, MCAT’s shop superintendent, said. “We’ve had some of our DIWAs go untouched, other than their regularly scheduled service, for close to 500,000 miles. Our maintenance cycle was An MCAT trolley originally every 30,000 miles. Within the last couple of years, we’ve moved them to 60,000. The fluid sampling test has been really clean.” According to Voith, the DIWA.6 was designed to meet the spe- For de la Rosa, DIWA transmissions are “keeping their vehicles cific needs of the transit market, instead of simply being a one- on the road longer,” while requiring less shop time to do so, a fact size-fits-all transmission that can also be utilized by municipal that keeps passengers and Manatee County officials happy. buses. That’s the key to Voith’s success with DIWA – the line of “In my 17 years at MCAT, Voith’s DIWAs have proven them- transmissions has been in production since 1952, and each update since than has fine-tuned its transit-bus specialization. For instance, the DIWA.6 uses intelligent start-up management and optimizes operating pressure to reduce overall fuel consumption by up to 12 percent. As many municipalities impose tight emission rules on buses, that’s another focus of the DIWA.6, which also uses technical advances to reduce its noise pollution, too. It’s also designed to improve passenger and driver comfort through its power-split operating principle, which allows for stepless acceleration and braking. The End Result Of These Features? Bus operators use less fuel and meet environmental regulations more easily, all the while offering a smoother, more comfortable ride. This translates into higher fleet reliability, longer up- times for individual buses and higher satisfaction for all involved – from the maintenance team, to drivers to the passengers themselves. “The DIWA.6 is THE transit bus transmission – plain and simple,” explained Joe Dalik, Re- gional Sales Manager, Voith. “Because it was built for the rigors of transit bus operation, it delivers the efficiencies that are important to operators, while offering an operational lifespan that exceeds their expectations.” Learn more about the DIWA at https://voith.com/corp-en/drives-transmissions/automatic-transmissions.html. Page 56 BUSLINE September/October 2019 busline0919.FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 9/4/19 10:27 AM Page 57

Riley Bus & Tours Marks 80th Year With A New 2019 MCI J4500 Coach Riley Bus & Coach, a Murdock, MN-based family-owned company, recently took delivery of a 2019 MCI J4500, bringing its fleet to four J4500 coaches no older than model year 2015. “The 2019 MCI J4500 features industry- leading legroom and a maximum 60-seat passenger configuration, following its interior redesign in 2018,” said MCI. “In the past, we’ve ordered our J4500s with seating for 50 or 52 passengers since we need the legroom on charters for our local university, including its athletic programs,” said Riley Bus And Tours Owner Kevin Riley, who represents the third generation of the family to run the business. For his new 2019 J4500 coach, Riley went Kevin Riley, who represents the third generation family member to run Riley Bus & Tours, with a 56-passenger configuration because of is pictured taking delivery of a new 2019 MCI J4500 coach at the Des Plaines, IL, MCI Sales the model’s more spacious cabin. He also and Service Center. The Murdock, MN-based tour and charter company turns 80 this year. added the model’s new optional rear window and RGB variable lighting packages that light up the interior in a MCI’s relationship with the company dates to its first MC-7 in variety of hues “for a coach that offers our passengers a top-of-the- 1981 with many more MCIs following. line good looking interior,” he said. Today, in addition to its four J4500 coaches, Riley operates one Riley also added MCI’s optional Advanced Driver Assistance modern luxurious mini-coach, and continues to serve its district with Systems (ADAS) available with Bendix Fusion. It’s a collision six school buses. mitigation system that adds a windshield-mounted forward-fac- Visit www.mcicoach.com. ing camera and object recognition software to further identify moving and stationary ob- jects, lane markings and road signs. In addition, a 360-degree camera provides a view around the entire coach to assist with small maneuvers. “All four of our coaches go from coast to coast,” said Riley. “Having new coaches helps ensure safety and reliability on the road. We also provide quarterly safety training for our 15 drivers. Many are retired but still want to tour the United States, and they are very patient and road sensible. You’ve got to do things right when your name is printed on the side of the coach.” Another service is Riley’s tour packages to destinations such as Florida and Arizona during the winter months, and summer trips to Alaska. The tours come, in most instances, with a protection plan for each traveler. Plus, Riley will even pick up a traveler at his/her home if it’s too difficult to meet the scheduled departure location. The company also offers a 5 percent dis- count on a customer’s first booked tour. In 1939, Riley’s grandparents started the busi- nesses with school buses to serve Murdock School District 7. In the 1970s, their daughter and son-in-law, Helen and Glenn Riley, purchased the business with their son, Kevin, who became a partner in the 1980s, and purchased the company in 1996.

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PERSONNEL Isabel Martin Joins MCI As Public Sector Bids Coordinator Brian Perry Joins REV Group As Dale Majury Retires As President Of Commercial Segment

Motor Coach Industries (MCI) has hired Isabel Martin as MCI Brian Perry has joined REV Group bids coordinator. as president of the commercial seg- Martin is now responsible for contract administration, crafting ment, overseeing several brands in- and submission of public sector bids. She also assists the sales team cluding Collins, ENC, Champion, in customer relationship management. Martin joins other members ElDorado, Capacity and Laymor. of the MCI sales and operations support team that include fellow Perry’s organizational experience bids coordinators Cindy Campbell and Mike Harpin, based in Win- spans from public, multi-national cor- nipeg, Manitoba. Martin reports to porations to small and mid-sized pri- Bruce Wiebe, MCI contracts manager. vately-held companies across both Martin joins MCI from a career in military and commercial markets. manufacturing and contract manage- He most recently was senior vice ment at PTI Transformers, a supplier to president of operations for L3Harris Brian Perry Manitoba Hydro. She has also man- Technologies, Inc., which has a total aged customer relationships and coor- of $33.5 billion in revenue. Perry led operations for its $260 dinated appropriate resources to ensure million Space Avionics group, and had additional matrix-re- high customer satisfaction in her pre- porting operational responsibilities including supply chain, vious positions, according to MCI. manufacturing, mission assurance, quality and EH&S across She succeeds Dale Majury, who retired 21 facilities. Isabel Martin in July after a 37-year career at MCI. Prior to this, he was senior vice president of operations for “Dale’s longtime contributions helped Gleason Corporation, where he had full P&L responsibility to ensure MCI’s Commuter Coach ranks today as the No. 1 best- for $350 million in revenue, as well as leading global sales selling model for express service routes throughout North America. and operations oversight for highly engineered CNC machin- I thank him for his steadfast, reliability-driven work ethic,” said Tom ing and automation equipment, aftermarket and engineering Wagner, MCI vice president, public sector. services. Martin holds both a project management diploma and general He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Northeastern Uni- management certificate from the University of Winnipeg. versity, and an MBA degree from Babson College. He is also a certified master black belt in Six Sigma and Lean Sensei.

Daniel Blatt Joins REV Group As VP/GM Of Imlay City Facility

REV Group also an- nounced that Daniel Blatt has joined the company as vice president and general manager of the Imlay City facility in Michigan, which produces Cham- pion Bus and Federal Coach vehicles. With over 30 years’ Daniel Blatt experience in operations and P&L management in manufacturing and industrial environments, Blatt reports to Brian Perry, president of commercial segment, REV Group. Prior to REV Group, he was vice president/general manager of MacLean Power Systems in South Carolina, a manufacturer of electric utility, communication and civil infrastructure products. Blatt holds a BSBA from Central Michigan University, and an MBA from Michigan State University along with several Lean and Six Sigma certifications.

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National Trails Adds New Van Hool CX45 To Fleet ABC Supports New Ownership With Hands-on Sales And After-Sales Support

National Trails, Inc., of Southfield, MI, has taken delivery of a team and company will make an ongoing impact in the market.” new Van Hool CX45 motorcoach. The regional charter and tour ABC field technicians will be conducting new coach orientation operation currently runs several Van Hool T2100 coaches in the and familiarization training to National Trails’ service mechanics fleet, and this delivery represents at its Southfield, MI, location in the first transaction between early September. National Trails’ ABC and the company’s new service staff also plan to partici- owner, Austin Arksey, who re- pate in hands-on ABC tech train- cently acquired the business from ing programs covering HVAC, the Frank family. The company electrical wiring, multiplex sys- has provided charter bus rental tems and more. services in southeast Michigan “The relationship begins after for over 35 years. the sale, and ABC is eager to The new 56-passenger Van share our knowledge, expertise Hool CX45 features comfortable and ongoing support with parts, passenger seats with USB and service and customer support pro- 110V outlets, six 15.6-inch mon- grams that we make available to itors and woodgrain flooring help our customers succeed.” throughout. The new CX45 will ABC Companies offerings in- be rotated in service to support clude new and pre-owned full- National’s charter bookings for tour groups, corporate outings, size highway coach equipment along with transit specialty school trips and athletics, nights on the town and more. vehicles. ABC offers an after-sale service network for service and Arksey continues to make enhancements to the operation, ac- repairs, collision services, extensive OEM and quality aftermarket cording to Pete Bachrach, ABC senior account executive/Midwest parts needs for transit, motorcoach and heavy-duty equipment from Region. “Austin is passionate about the business and the industry,” 10 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. he said. “We’re excited to support his vision, and believe that his For more information, visit www.abc-companies.com. INSURANCETRANSPORTATION SINCE 1952 SERVICE INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC #ATAWBA,ANEs2ICHMOND 6!

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Complete Coach Works Has Contract Following Tragedies Greater Dayton RTA For Petaluma Transit Bus Rehabilitation Supports The Community Complete Coach Works (CCW) has project to keep their fleet modernized and been awarded a contract with Petaluma upgraded to meet the needs of their riders,” The Greater Dayton (OH) RTA remains Transit, Petaluma, CA, for the complete re- said Kevin O’Brien, general sales manager “Dayton Strong,” and shared that message habilitation of one of CCW. across its fleet-header signs as a symbol of of its New Flyer Jared Hall, transit community solidarity following the August buses. manager of Pet - 4 mass shooting that killed 9 and left 17 in- The rehabilitation aluma Transit, said, jured in Dayton’s Oregon District. will include replace- “Complete Coach Immediately following the shootings, the ment of the original Works has been RTA assisted law enforcement at the scene engine with a 2007 great to work with by providing a bus for witness containment Cummins ISL Recon and provided supe- in the aftermath. engine. In addition to the clean engine, the rior quality work for the first bus rehabili- In addition, the RTA provided free rides rehab will include a rebuilt Allison B400R tation for our agency.” system-wide to ensure that people from transmission, a new driver’s seat, new LED “CCW provides a range of remanufactur- across the Dayton region could have access destination sign systems and new floors. ing, repair and alternative fuel conversion to attend a community vigil that night. The remanufactured bus will be “finished services for transit vehicles in all stages of “Dayton Strong” messaging began ear- off” with LED external lights and a new the life cycle. CCW technicians have the lier this summer after a string of 15 torna- paint job, along with graphics to comple- specialized training, OEM qualifications, does devastated the Dayton area on ment the mechanical upgrades. technical equipment to properly diagnose Memorial Day. The RTA coupled the “Day- “Complete Coach Works provides top- and repair these systems, and return vehi- ton Strong” messaging on bus-header signs notch rehabilitation services for projects of cles that are ready for revenue service,” ac- with outreach efforts such as emergency all sizes; we’re looking forward to this re- cording to CCW. transport, travel training, cleanup and sup- habilitation project for Petaluma Transit. plies distribution, to emphasize the We value our partnership, and consider it a For more information, agency’s commitment to the communities privilege to be involved on this proactive visit [email protected]. it serves.

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MobilityTRANS Announces Major New Products MobilityTRANS, a Michigan-based paratransit van and small bus manufacturer, has two new products. The SafeTbus line of shuttles and small buses for 2020 includes 20 standard safety features and another 14 safety options. “We believe that we offer a very safe, high quality, and Home of the Best Full-Service cost-efficient choice for passenger transportation,” said company president, Dave Brown. “Many of these safety features Travel Plaza in Northern Illinois are exclusive.” Among the safety options are a new floor system called Featuring… EzSafe, incorporating electric wheelchair securements which store a record of proper use and alert the driver if a securement is released during transport. For more information, visit www.MobilityTRANS.com or stop by BusCon booth 619.

Seating for 175, Homestyle Cooking, Daily Specials, BYD Takes Third Place In Fortune’s Buffet, Soup & Salad Bar, Full Menu, Carry-Out ‘Change the World’ Ranking (815) 562-5840 “BYD has taken third place on Fortune Magazine’s ‘Change the World’ list 2019, which is the publication’s annual ranking of companies that are using the creative tools of business to help the planet and tackle society’s unmet needs,” according to a press release. “The Shenzhen, China-based new energy technology firm’s inclusion on the list was based on its successes in building a flexible ‘e-platform’ for EV design and construction, its competitive Super Salad Bar by-the-pound! pricing that’s helped further commercialize EVs and the recent Stromboli, Pizza, Pasta & more! deal to jointly develop electric vehicles with Japan’s Toyota that are set to expand its global reach,” said BYD. Hand-Dipped Ice Cream! According to the magazine’s Sustainable Leadership Monitor, (815) 561-9595 BYD scored highly in metrics like environmental innovation, CSR strategy and company management. Designated Bus Parking and “BYD was not only the sole EV maker in this year’s ranking, but also the only Chinese company to make the top 10, and just Pull-Thru Fueling Island one of three Chinese companies to make the overall list of 52, which includes honorees like Quallcomm (No. 1); MasterCard Bus Drivers & Tour (No. 2); Apple (No. 16); IBM (No. 22); and more. BYD made its debut in the ranking in 2015, because of its prowess in developing Guides Eat free! battery-powered buses for tackling urban pollution across China and the world.” The ranking, now in its fifth year, is selected in partnership with Mini-Mall — 2 Stores Fortune’s partners at Shared Value Initiative, a global platform with over 5,000 sq. ft. of shopping! for organizations seeking business solutions to social challenges, and FSG, a nonprofit social-impact consulting firm. Fortune ed- ATM,Major Credit Cards accepted. itors and writers then evaluate and rank the companies based on measurable social impact, business results, degree of innovation and corporate integration, according to a release. I-39 & Hwy 38, Exit 99 “BYD is both thrilled and honored to be included again in this well-respected ranking of visionary companies that are using their Rochelle, IL creativity to create a better tomorrow,” said Stella Li, senior vice- president of BYD. “Each day, we work tirelessly to bring people OPEN 24 HOURS a better life through technological innovation, dedicated to our goal of creating a more sustainable world for future generations.” Please call ahead! For more information, visit www.byd.com. September/October 2019 BUSLINE Page 61 busline0919.FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 9/4/19 10:27 AM Page 62

argest gathering of bus and motorcoach owners All the latest euipment, parts, accessories and technology on the BEST show floor in the industry Informative education sessions on current topics with useful takeaways Build your network with fellow operators from the US and Canada Entertaining and dynamic general sessions Celebrations and competitions that showcase the absolute best of our industry.

UMA members pay only $399 to attend if you register by is one of the hottest destinations in September 27, 2019. North America, with more than 180 Book your space asap! music venues showcasing all types EXPO has the buyers and of live music and a unique dining decisionmakers you need to reach all in scene that offers everything from one place. casual to fancy. www.motorcoachepo.com busline0919.FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 9/4/19 10:27 AM Page 63

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