35Ft COACHES ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL

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Trusted to keep you out in front.

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a See us at BusCon Booth #1001

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Published by Rankin Publishing, Inc. www.buslinemag.com MAGAZINE IN THIS ISSUE Serving North San Diego County, CA North County Transit District Carries 12 Million Annually...... 8 In Indianapolis 2016 BusCon Scheduled For September 19-21...... 20 Blue Bird To Launch New Commercial Line At BusCon; Micro Bird To Showcase New D-Series MD Edition Buses ...26

Busline Vehicle Showcase: Transit Buses ...... 54-56 Busline Buyers Guide: Fare Collection...... 57

ON THE COVER: Micro Bird, Inc., President Steve Girardin, RAPID RESPONSE...... Page 6 left, and Blue Bird Corporation President/CEO Phil Horlock stand in front of the Micro Bird CT-Series DLX (back left) and Blue Bird T3RE (Rear Engine) buses. Micro Bird Commercial and Blue Bird INDUSTRY NEWS ...... Page 33 Commercial will have a strong presence during BusCon on Sept. 19-21 in Indianapolis, IN. See page 26. CONTENTS CALENDAR OF EVENTS EDITORIAL & CORPORATE OFFICES SEPTEMBER 2016 JANUARY 2017 JULY 2017 September 11-14 January 14-17 July 14-19 Rankin Publishing Co., Inc. APTA Annual Meeting American Bus Association National School Don Rankin and Linda Rankin, Publishers Los Angeles, CA (ABA) Marketplace Transportation Association 204 E. Main Street • P.O. Box 130 Info: 202-496-4800 Cleveland, OH (NSTA) Annual Meeting Info: 800-283-2877 & Convention Arcola, IL 61910-0130, USA September 19-21 Indianapolis, IN Email: [email protected] BusCon 2016 FEBRUARY 2017 Info: 703-684-3200 Website: www.rankinpublishing.com Indianapolis, IN February 26-March 2 Info: 800-576-8788 United Motorcoach AUGUST 2017 (800) 598-8083 (U.S.) • (217) 268-4959 Association August 6-9 Fax: (217) 268-4815 NOVEMBER 2016 (UMA) Motorcoach Expo International Motorcoach November 5-9 St. Louis, MO Group (IMG) Editorial: Harrell Kerkhoff, Editor Canadian Urban Transit Info: 800-424-8262 Strategic Alliance Meeting Association (CUTA) Nashville, TN Rick Mullen, Associate Editor Fall Conference MAY 2017 Info: 888-447-3466 Design: David Opdyke, Kris Bott Vancouver, BC May 7-10 Reception: Mary Jo Dunn F Info: 416-365-9800 APTA Bus & OCTOBER 2017 Paratransit Conference October 8-11 Reno, NV APTA Expo Advertising Info: 202-496-4800 & Annual Meeting Contact Kevin Kennedy @ 813-502-6672 Atlanta, GA Info: 202-496-4800 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. Don Rankin @ 800-598-8083 Publisher assumes no liability whatsoever for content of any advertisement or editorial material contained herein. Copyright 2016 Rankin Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written con- Fax: 217-268-4815 sent of Rankin Publishing, Inc. Subscription Rates in United States: 6 issues $25. Single Copy rate: $10 including postage/handling; Email: [email protected] Buyer’s Guide $15 including postage/handling. International rates: 6 issue annual Air Mail Subscription $60 U.S. dollars net

Page 4 BUSLINE September/October 2016 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:53 PM Page 5

BEST VIEW FROM EVERY ANGLE.

Prevost coaches deliver the luxury experience that today’s charter travelers are looking for. With their fuel-efﬁcient powertrain and low-maintenance design, they’re as comfortable on your balance sheet as they are for your passengers.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Published by Rankin Publishing, Inc. www.buslinemag.com MAGAZINE

Motor Coach Industries 54 Nova Bus 55 2016 BusCon • September 19-21 57

Alexander Dennis 55 Prevost 56

Company Website Page # Company Website Page #

ABC Companies www.abc-companies.com 9 Micro Bird Commercial/ Advantage Funding www.advantagefund.com 23 Blue Bird Commercial www.mbcbus.com 30 Altro Transflor www.altrotransflor.com 41 Midwest Bus Corporation www.midwestbus.com 43 Amaya-Astron www.amaya-astron.com.mx 20 Mile-X www.mile-x.com 52 AMF-Bruns of America www.amfbrunsamerica.com 35 Motor Coach Industries www.mcicoach.com 2 Atlantic Detroit Diesel-Allison www.atlanticdda.com 45 Motorcoach Tire Sales.com www.motorcoachtiresales.com 10 Bauer’s Intelligent Transportation www.bauerscertifiedpreowned.com 36 Onspot Automatic Tire Chains www.onspot.com 56 Bitzer www.bitzerus.com 49 Prevost Car www.prevostcar.com 5, 60 BusCon www.busconexpo.com 51 Profusion Industries www.profusionindustries.com 25 BYD www.byd.com 13 Protective Insurance Company www.protectiveinsurance.com 17 Camira www.camirafabrics.com 50 Relational Bus Systems www.rbs2000.com 12 Carlyle carlylecompressor.com. 16 RUD Chain, Inc. www.rotogrip.us 46 Complete Coach Works www.completecoach.com 19 Safety Step www.safetystep.net 52 Continental Corporation www.continental-corporation.com 34 Service Insurance www.serviceins.com 52 De Leo Transportation Fabrics www.deleotf.com 47 Shriver-Capacity Insurance Agency www.shriverinsurance.com 14 Diamond Manufacturing www.diamondmfg.com 57 SLEC www.slec.com 44 Dixie Electric Ltd. www.dixie-electric.com 43 Sutrak www.sutrakusa.com 39 Euramtec Corporation www.euramtec.com 38 TAPTCO www.taptco.com 42 Freightliner www.freightlinerchassis.com 3 TEMSA www.temsa.com 15 Glaval Bus www.GlavalBus.com 21 TIB www.tibinsurance.com 37 Hometown Trolley www.hometowntrolley.com 11 TransitWorks www.Transit-Works.com 24 Hoyoguard [email protected] 45 Turtle Top www.turtletop.com 7 INA Bus Sales (Irizar) www.inabussales.com 59 UMA www.motorcoachexpo.com 53 IndBus NA www.indbusna.com 22 Vanner Power www.vanner.com 18, 40 Marathon Brake Systems www.MarathonBrake.com 33 WEH Technologies Inc. www.weh.us 50 McCarty’s Sacro Ease, Inc. www.mccartys.com 48 Willingham Inc. www.willinghaminc.com 32 Read or Download Complete Issues Of Busline Magazine Online At: www.buslinemag.com

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See us at BusCon Booth #815 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:53 PM Page 8

Matthew O. Tucker, Executive Director of North County Transit District

North County Transit District Carries 12 Million Annually

Serving North San Diego County, CA By Rick Mullen Busline Magazine Associate Editor

overing an area of about 1,020 square miles in Southern California, North County Transit District (NCTD), headquartered in Oceanside, carries more than 12 million Cpassengers annually, serving North San Diego County with a multimodal approach. “When it comes to traveling around North County, our public transit system can help customers relax on their commute; avoid traffic and parking issues; and save money,” said NCTD Marketing & Communications Coordinator Eric Sawyer. “That being said, we realize NCTD is just one of a variety of options commuters have available to them. Our work as a transit system is to help potential customers see these benefits, and if it works for them, to hop aboard. We get this message out through our social media, the news, and advertising campaigns.” Indeed, NCTD’s mission and vision statement says: “NCTD’s mission is to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services. Our vision is to build an integrated transit system that enables our customers to travel easily and efficiently throughout our growing region.

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ALL 35ft COACHES ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL

VAN HOOL CX35 is so MUCH MORE

V-Series Outlook with panoramic roof shown

A STAPLE OF NORTH AMERICAN FLEETS FOR 15 YEARS, THE VAN HOOL C-MODEL CONSISTENTLY DELIVERS RELIABILITYAND VERSATILITY TO FLEETS WHILE PROVIDING THE LUXURY AND AMENITIES YOUR CUSTOMERS HAVE COME TO EXPECT. DISCOVER THIS SAME BIG COACH LUXURY ON A SMALLER SCALE IN THE VAN HOOL CX35.

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We will achieve this vision by: The system’s transportation options include: n Placing service to our customers first; n BREEZE fixed route bus system; n Ensuring the safety and security of our n FLEX on-demand service and deviated route; employees and customers; n LIFT complementary paratransit; n Delivering high-quality transit services; n COASTER commuter rail service; and n Developing and maintaining facilities that sustain and n SPRINTER hybrid rail. promote current and future transportation services; “When tourists decide to visit San Diego, our COASTER train n Securing adequate revenue, protecting our assets and service should be added to the top of their list,” Sawyer said. “As getting the maximum return on the public investment; the name implies, the train runs along the coast and takes passen- n Working in partnership with our communities gers from the city of San Diego in the south to the north part of the and other stakeholders; and, county. On the route, passengers are taken through coastal cities, n Encouraging innovation, creativity and leadership.” and provided with amazing views of the beautiful Pacific Ocean. In addition to its bus transit and paratransit service, On the COASTER, people can relax and take the train to avoid the NCTD also operates commuter rail and light rail services. Interstate 5 traffic along the coast. “Commuters use our services to get to school, work and other places. There are three colleges located on or near our SPRINTER train line, California State University San Marcos and Palomar College, both located in San Marcos, and also at Mira Costa College, located in Oceanside.” Passenger safety is a high priority at NCTD. It recently was awarded the Trans - portation Security Admin - istration’s (TSA) “Gold HUNDREDS OF FLEETS NOW PURCHASING Standard” award, in recognition of the transit system’s TIRES FROM MOTORCOACH TIRE SALES high security standards and preparation based on TSA’s voluntary Baseline for Ass - essment for Security En -

IMG Partner of the Year! AFFINITY PARTNER hancement (BASE) program. The BASE program aids MOTORCOACH TIRE SALES WOULD LIKE TO THANK transit systems by analyzing IMG FOR BEING CHOSEN AS 2015 17 categories in security and emergency preparedness, in - “PARTNER OF THE YEAR” cluding potential vulnerabili- ties that should be addressed. MOTORCOACH TIRE SALES EXTENDS OUR APPRECIATION TO THE FOLLOWING IMG OPERATORS THAT HAVE PURCHASED TIRES FROM US: Only 13 agencies received the award this year, accord- ANDERSON COACH & TRAVEL MID AMERICAN COACHES ing to the TSA. ANNETT BUS LINES NIAGRIC SCENIC “Our top priority is the ARROW STAGE LINES PACIFIC COACHWAYS safety and security of our BROWN COACH SOUTHERN COACHES customers, employees and CROSWELL VIP SOUTHEASTERN STAGES DATTCO STARR the general public,” said ESCOT BUS LINES STARLINER NCTD Executive Director HOLIDAY COMPANIES THE FREE ENTERPRISE SYSTEM Matthew Tucker. “This JAMES RIVER BUS LINES TRANSPORTATION CHARTER SERVICES award demonstrates our pro - LAMERS BUS LINES VANDALIA BUS LINES active commitment and on - LEPRECHAUN LINES YOUNG TRANSPORTATION going efforts to foster safety and security, and we look For more information contact: www.motorcoachtiresales.com forward to continuing this or call: 678-463-4110 standard of excellence in the years to come.”

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“Currently, most of our fixed-route BREEZE buses are powered by clean burning CNG. Soon, we will receive 25 new 40-foot, low-floor CNG buses, and these will replace our remaining diesel buses.” — NCTD Marketing & Communications Coordinator Eric Sawyer NCTD is governed by a Board of Directors, with members from chief leads each division. NCTD utilizes a number of separate the local communities of Carlsbad, Del Mar, Encinitas, facilities within North San Diego County. Escondido, Oceanside, Solana Beach, San Marcos, Vista, and the According to NCTD, the system has traditionally relied on pub- San Diego County Board of Supervisors. NCTD’s organization is lic funding. In 1987, voters approved the Proposition A TransNet comprised of ten divisions: Procurement and Contracts Ordinance, which provided funding for future transit projects and Administration, Operations – Bus, Operations – Rail, Safety, improvements to the existing system. In November 2004, voters Development Services, Transit Enforcement, Finance, Planning, approved a 40-year extension of the TransNet sales tax, which will Information Technology and Administrative Services. A division allow NCTD to continue to operate service for many years. The recent Great Recession began in December 2007 and ended in June 2009, according to the U.S. National Bureau of Economic Research. During the final year of the recession, NCTD officials projected annual operating deficits of more than $24 million by 2014. As a result, NCTD made proactive changes to maintain transit services and related jobs, including reducing staff and renegotiating and restructuring various contracts. These changes closed a five-year, $80 million budget gap. The new business model also allowed NCTD to lower fares, increase service and ridership, and grow its financial reserves. Furthermore, according to a NCTD news release, an independent audit conducted in 2015 showed the system was in good financial health. “The results of the 2015 audit demonstrate NCTD’s strong commitment to sound fiscal management and strong internal controls,” Tucker said. “The district has made tremendous progress toward fiscal stability and our forward financial planning will continue to strengthen our financial position to ensure that we continue to serve the public transit needs of North County citizens.”

The BREEZE And FLEX Systems

CTD’s roots date to when the North San Diego County Transit NDevelopment Board (NSDCTDB) was created by a California Senate bill on September 20, 1975. The bill allowed the board to build and operate, directly or through a contractor, public transportation systems in the area of its jurisdiction, according to NCTD. “One of the first actions the board undertook was acquiring the municipal transit systems operated by the cities of Escondido and Oceanside,” Sawyer said.

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serve North San Diego County.” In the early 1980s, planning began for the COASTER commuter rail service. In 1994, the NSDCTDB created the San Diego Northern Railway, a non-profit corporation, to THE smart choice maintain, enhance and operate the COASTER. In February 1995, that service began. In August 2005, the California state legislature changed NSDCTDB’s name to the North County Transit District. In March 2008, the SPRINTER light rail began service. Today, on the bus transit side of the multimodal equation, the BREEZE system operates 163 buses, covering 33 fixed-routes, with an average of 28,800 weekday boardings, or 8.1 million boardings annually. “Currently, most of our fixed-route BREEZE buses are powered by clean burning CNG (compressed natural gas),” Sawyer said. “Soon, we will receive 25 new 40-foot, low- floor CNG buses, and these will replace our remaining diesel buses.” The massive system also includes more than 1,900 bus stops and 9 transfer centers. BREEZE began in 1976 shortly after NCTD was established and acquired municipal bus systems that were serving Escondido and Oceanside. Complementing the BREEZE system is NCTD’s on- Bryan Killian, manager of scheduling, and Courtney Farrell, administrative assistant, are pictured at an Earth Day outreach event at Camp Pendleton. demand service called FLEX, which was launched in 2011. FLEX came as an effort to retain service in areas that fixed “The board then embarked on the effort to design a regional route service was not effective and efficient. It services four FLEX transit system comprised of local and regional corridor routes to zones comprised of parts of southwest Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana

Shriver Insurance: Budgeting For Insurance

Has your insurance agent ever asked, “What are you budgeting for insurance this coming year?” With proper coverage and use of deductibles, price and cash flow can be negotiated. Insurance/risk management is one of your four major costs, and technically, the most important. I have reminded many operators in my 45 years serving this industry, that you can be late on a bus payment, perhaps stall on a fuel payment or even payroll, but without insurance, you cannot move a bus. I like the acronym LIFE. Labor, Insurance, …for A TRUSTED NAME. When you choose CH Bus Sales, you’re making a decision to work Fuel, and Equipment are the operator's four major costs, and the area they can influence the most, is insurance. with some of the most experienced management and service teams in the industry. The larger the operator, the more choices available to reduce this cost. Some have chosen to join captives, and are pleased if they We’ve partnered with Temsa – a great quality European manufacturer – to provide eventually receive return of part of their cost. Sharing losses with others in the group is an exposure, and waiting years for a possi- you with dependable products that match our reliable service. Now that’s a winning ble return can be improved to immediate cost reduction by simply accepting more risk up front through use of customized deductibles, which can have aggregates. Some very large captive members have recently chosen this alternate path, thereby reduc- combination. Our team is focused on helping you improve your business. ing costs up front, and eliminating potential loss sharing with captive members. “Cash is King,” says The Donald. Speaking of cash flow, we have clients who pay as they earn. A 17 percent unearned escrow When you buy a Temsa, you become our partner in success and a part of our family. deposit can be handled by a letter of credit, which is carried on the books as an asset, not an expense. Premiums for liability, after cal- culation, are converted to a gross revenue (or mileage) rate on which the operator reports his premium during the middle of the following month of operation. Pay as you earn. When a bus doesn’t move, either through lack of booking or out of service break- We believe in relationships that last, and service that comes in ﬁrst. down, that bus ceases to earn liability premium until its next trip. Operators may save $10, $20, $30 or more per day. By policy anniversary, the operator has only paid 11 months of premium, and his LOC stands as the renewal deposit. Cost and exposure reduction, with cash flow improvement; all available if the operator qualifies. We love the people in this For more information, contact CH Bus Sales at: industry, and enjoy helping whenever we are given the opportunity. Let us help you with your next insurance budget. 877-723-4045 or visit www.chbussales.com

Respectfully, Charlie Shriver

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See us at BusCon Booth #1321 Page 14 BUSLINE September/October 2016 CH Bus Sales is the exclusive distributor of Temsa motorcoaches in the U.S.

chbus-8.5x11-2-trusted.indd 1 5/5/16 4:45 PM 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 15 THE smart choice

…for A TRUSTED NAME. When you choose CH Bus Sales, you’re making a decision to work with some of the most experienced management and service teams in the industry. We’ve partnered with Temsa – a great quality European manufacturer – to provide you with dependable products that match our reliable service. Now that’s a winning combination. Our team is focused on helping you improve your business.

When you buy a Temsa, you become our partner in success and a part of our family.

We believe in relationships that last, and service that comes in ﬁrst.

For more information, contact CH Bus Sales at: 877-723-4045 or visit www.chbussales.com

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Beach and Ramona, which are areas where the fixed-route service n Riders have increased mobility through access to Amtrak, is not available. Metrolink, COASTER trains, SPRINTER trains, San Diego MTS “FLEX vehicles take passengers anywhere within a FLEX buses, and the San Diego Trolley; and, zone, or to the nearest transfer point on the BREEZE, COASTER n Riders may receive tax benefits. Employers can allow or SPRINTER lines,” Sawyer said. employees to set aside up to $255 per month in pre-tax income for Americans love their automobiles; however, Sawyer pointed transit expenses (see IRS Publication 15-B for more information). out, taking the bus is an important aspect in helping decrease traf- Some customers like to couple bicycle transportation with rid- fic congestion. ing the bus. To accommodate bike riders, each BREEZE bus has It is no secret that Southern California is notorious for traffic a rack capable of handling at least two bikes with standard tires jams on its freeways. Recently, www.nbcandiego.com reported on (maximum of 26 inches or 700 cm). Bikes are accepted on a first- come, first-served basis. “NCTD also has free park and ride loca- “We are currently running a marketing campaign with a wide-ranging and tions at nearly all of our train stations,” Sawyer said. diverse portfolio.This includes billboards, radio ads, Internet ads and other Parts of Southern California are also notorious for “smog” conditions. As was men- advertising outlets. Radio ads can be beneficial, especially for people who tioned earlier, the transit district is committed to operating CNG vehicles. To further are stuck in traffic... We are also running ads at some of the local colleges.” enhance air quality and reduce the amount of — NCTD Marketing & Communications Coordinator Eric Sawyer harmful emissions, NCTD also offers an electric vehicle charging station at its a new traffic index released by a well-known mapping company, Oceanside Transit Center (OTC). There are seven 220-volt sta- which indicated San Diego has some of the worst traffic conges- tions at the OTC, which may be used by customers and the gener- tion in the nation. On the worst gridlock list, San Diego ranked al public alike. No. 17 out of 53 U.S. cities measured. As one might expect, San The charging stations at the OTC use direct solar power, col- Diego County’s neighbor to the north, the city of Los Angeles, lected by solar panels on top of a carport structure built over took the top spot. the charging stations. When the charging stations are not in Other benefits in taking the bus, Sawyer said, are: use, the solar power is used to provide energy for other sys-

EFFICIENCY. RELIABILITY. COMFORT. COUNT ON CARLYLE FOR BIG BENEFITS BY THE BUSLOAD.

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tems at the transit station. In addition to its main office in Oceanside, NCTD maintains two facilities for bus operations and vehicle maintenance. What it calls the West Division is located in Oceanside near the main office. The East Division is in the city of Escondido, near the Escondido Transit Center. Also, a rail maintenance and storage facility for the COASTER service is located on the grounds of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, just north of Oceanside. The sprawling base is the largest employer in San Diego County, and has a daytime population of about 70,000 people. In keeping with its multimodal approach to serving San Diego County transportation needs, NCTD and Camp Pendleton officials, as well as current residents of the base, have discussed placing a transit center there to fur- NCTD Marketing & Communications Coordinator Eric Sawyer ther facilitate COASTER service. Disabilities Act (ADA). LIFT carries more than 150,000 passen- Pilot Program For Paratransit Service gers annually. “Service is available for trips within three-fourths of a mile CTD’s origin-to-destination paratransit operation is from fixed bus routes or SPRINTER rail stations,” Sawyer said. called LIFT. The service is for people with disabilities In August 2015, NCTD teamed with the San Diego Nwho are unable to use BREEZE buses or rail, and have Metropolitan Transit System to launch a pilot program designed been certified for eligibility, as required by the Americans with to increase the quality and efficiency of paratransit service.

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North County Transit’s BREEZE system operates 164 buses with 8.1 million boardings annually. “As a result of the pilot program, for the first time in the histo- Jolla, which, at times, required passengers to wait for up to an ry of NCTD, paratransit vehicles from each organization were hour,” Sawyer said. “The issue the pilot program addressed allowed to cross into the other’s service area to transport passen- occurred when a passenger’s final destination was a short dis- gers,” Sawyer said. tance into the other organization’s service area.” The permitted crossover was limited to five miles within the “At NCTD, our goal isn’t just to provide safe and reliable serv- other organization’s service area, and saved many passengers ice for our customers, it’s also to make sure our service is effi- from having to experience a coordinated transfer. cient,” said Manager of Scheduling Bryan Killian. “This pilot “The transfers from one organization’s paratransit service to program was geared toward becoming more efficient, and I am the other took place at the Veterans Administration hospital in La proud to say the results have been positive.”

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Preliminary results for the program indi- cate NCTD and MTS have saved about 250 hours of vehicle wait time by not having to perform 750 coordinated transfers.

Marketing Transit Service

o get the word out about LIFT, and the many other services offered, TNCTD has undertaken a comprehensive marketing strategy. “We are currently running a marketing campaign with a wide-ranging and diverse portfolio,” Sawyer said. “This includes billboards, radio ads, Internet ads and other advertising outlets. Radio ads can be beneficial, especially for people who are stuck in traffic on the freeway that parallels our COASTER train system. “We are also running ads at some of the North County Transit recently received TSA’s Gold Standard Award for safety. Pictured are, local colleges. These ads highlight the left to right, Assistant Federal Security Director, Paul Leonard; TSA San Diego Office Federal Security additionally discounted monthly pass for Director, Kathleen Connon; TSA San Diego Office NCTD Governing Board Chairperson, Mark Packard; students.” and Jaime Becerra, NCTD Chief of Transit Enforcement. The discounted student monthly BREEZE/SPRINTER passes ridership, it is by offering stellar customer service that keeps peo- are made available thanks to a financial allocation from the state. ple coming back to the bus. NCTD emphasizes that all employ- The goal of this discount is to increase ridership at the student ees across the board, no matter what their job descriptions might level in a manner that promotes long-term transit use. entail, are well versed in how critical it is to put riders first. While the marketing effort, in part, is geared toward attracting Continued On Page 32

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2016 BusCon Scheduled For September 19-21 In Indianapolis

• BUSCON SCHEDULE • Catering to the bus industry, the annual BusCon tradeshow is scheduled for September MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 19-21 at the Indiana Convention Center, located Noon to 5 p.m. in downtown Indianapolis, IN. Registration open 3 to 4 p.m. Individuals, as well as public transit and para- Session: transit agencies, owners and operators of private The Benefits of Public-Private Partnerships companies that provide charter, tour, corporate, With the passage of MAP-21 came a proposal that opened the door car rental, high-end, intercity, senior or casino for public transportation and private operators to partner to solve transportation issues around the nation. The FTA (Federal Transit transportation are invited to attend. Administration) is set to propose rulemaking on the initiative. This ses- This year’s keynote address, titled Creating sion will focus on how public and private operators can work together, Rock Solid Strategies for Transportation, Business and what the benefits can be for each company as well as the communi- and Life, will be given by Ray Melleady, managing ties they serve. The presenter of this session is Johnson County, KS, director, North America USSC Group. Melleady Commissioner Steve Klika. 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. will speak from 11 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, Session: September 20. Inspect, Protect and Understand Wheelchair Securement Systems and Regulations

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With the combination of passion, principle and proficiency Glaval Bus created the Legacy.

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Keeping up to date with new regulations in regards to special-needs passengers is imperative. This two-part session will focus on inspecting and protecting passengers by implementing a fleet evaluation program for the maintenance and operation of securement equipment as well as an update on new WC 18-19 wheelchair securement standards. Presenters are Bud Fears and Mike Laidlaw, of Q'Straint/Sure-Lok. 5:30 to 7 p.m. BusCon Night on the Town at Howl at the Moon BusCon Full Conference, Supplier or Transit Maintenance badge required for entry. Exhibits Only passholders may purchase a separate ticket. Photo ID also required. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Registration open 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. A scene from BusCon 2015. Concurrent sessions: How Alternative Fuels Can Work for You Assurance, and 4). Promotion. This session will discuss how effective With sustainability continuing to be a focal point for cities around the oversight, coaching and reporting can influence a culture of safety, as nation, it’s time to take a look at which alternative fuel could work best well as proven steps attendees can follow to effectively decrease risk in for each operation. This session will not only focus on the options that are an operation. Attendees will also learn how they can accurately measure available on the market today, but give attendees practical advice in the and remove their top safety deficiencies, recognize their top and most implementation of the fuel, including the infrastructure improvements improved drivers and protect their funding. Presenters are Rush Akin and necessary and the training and support that is available — both before and Steve Mentzer, of Lytx Inc. after implementation. Presenters are Steven Sokolsky, of CALSTART; Bill Spraul, of the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System; and How to Manage and Measure Customer Service Annalloyd Thomason, of the Natural Gas Vehicle Institute (NGVi). Integrating academic theory with practical application, attendees can learn how to manage and control customer service and maintain positive Implementing a World Class Safety Culture online reviews, while maintaining a low-cost overhead structure. This In 2011, APTA outlined the “4 Pillars” of an effective safety manage- session is ideal for operations of both small and large transportation pro- ment system: 1). Management Policy, 2). Risk Management, 3). grams. Presenter is Jeffrey Buxton, of Green Mountain Ski Bus Inc.

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9:30 to 9:45 a.m. 10:45 to 11 a.m. Networking Refreshment Break Networking Refreshment Break 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. 11 a.m. to Noon Concurrent sessions: Keynote Address: The Continuing Evolution of Electric Buses Creating Rock Solid Strategies In a short time, electric vehicles have gone from a burgeoning technol- for Transportation, Business and Life ogy to a viable option for many fleets both large and small. Hear from Ray Melleady, of the USSC Group, will share a blueprint for strategic operators who have made the leap, what it took to implement the technol- planning that applies to both business and life. His goal is to help atten- ogy and how it has worked for them. Attendees will also hear from sup- dees develop a better understanding of the meaning of thoughtful strate- pliers who will discuss the current state of electric buses as well as how gic planning from a real-world transportation operations mindset. They the technology will continue to grow. Moderator is Len Engel, of will learn how to build relational equity with key stakeholders within the Antelope Valley Transit Authority (AVTA). Presenters are Zach Kahn, of industry, and to leverage these relationships to enhance personal networks BYD Heavy Industries; Vicki Learn, of IndyGo; and David Warren, of for support, knowledge and information sharing. Also, attendees will New Flyer. enhance their knowledge of critical industry operating trends, critical issues and best practices in asset management. Preventing the Knowledge Drain Noon to 2 p.m. by Building a Succession Plan Lunch in Exhibit Hall Baby Boomers are retiring at an unprecedented rate, taking with them Noon to 5 p.m. years of knowledge. This session will help attendees implement a succes- Exhibit Hall open sion plan that will not only teach them how to identify future leaders, but 2 to 3 p.m. also how to groom them to take an organization to the next level. Presenter BusCon Ride & Drive is Gene Rhodes, of the Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority. 2 to 4 p.m. Transit Maintenance Forum Techniques to Diffuse, Deal with Conflicts The inaugural Transit Maintenance Forum (TMF) for senior transit and Aggressive Situations maintenance professionals will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, This course teaches the same practices taught at police academies Sept. 20, and from 9 to 10:35 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 21. TMF will give across the nation by the Verbal Judo Institute to deal with conflicts and senior transit maintenance professionals the chance to learn about the lat- aggressive situations onboard the bus. Attendees will learn how and what est trends they are facing in the industry when it comes to vehicle main- to teach their drivers to help with these often dangerous situations. tenance. The event also affords transit professionals the opportunity to Presenter is Jeffrey Cassell, of the Transit and Paratransit Company. network and share challenges with peers, and keep up-to-date with the

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newest vehicles, technologies and products on the market today. build a motorcoach revenue base, how to hire people with motorcoach A Transit Maintenance Forum pass is $98 and includes full access to experience, and the importance of being familiar with U.S. DOT rules and the exhibit hall, all seminars, scheduled meals and networking events that regulations. Presenter is Ron Sorci, of Professional Consulting take place over the three-day BusCon. Visit the BusCon website to see the Resources, Inc. Transit Maintenance Forum schedule and to register. 3 to 5 p.m. Going Above and Beyond ADA Requirements Happy Hour in Exhibit Hall Los Angeles Metro has embraced the challenge of becoming one of the 6 to 8 p.m. most accessible transit systems in the world. This presentation will pro- Evening Reception at the vide an overview of the many accessibility enhancements that have been Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum incorporated into recent bus orders and at major new terminals as part of BusCon Full Conference, Supplier or Transit Maintenance Badge its ambitious goals. The innovations include enhancements in seating, required for entry. Exhibits Only passholders may purchase a separate wheelchair securement, audio and visual information system, safety and ticket. wayfinding. Presenter is Daniel Levy, of L.A. Metro. 10:30 a.m to 2 p.m. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Exhibit Hall open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration open BusCon Ride & Drive 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Noon to 1:30 p.m. Breakfast and Awards Ceremony Lunch in Exhibit Hall 9 to 10:35 a.m Transit Maintenance Forum Transportation markets served at BusCon include: tour and charter, 9:40 to 10:30 a.m. public transit, universities, limousine, retirement communities, parking Concurrent sessions: companies and garages, hotels and resorts, community transit, casinos, Transitioning from Limo Operator to a religious facilities, assisted living homes, paratransit services, leasing Full-Service Ground Transportation Company companies, car rental and corporate transportation. Diversification is often the key to future growth. Attendees will learn what they need to know to get their operation to the next level by explor- ing opportunities that take advantage of what they already do well: move Visit www.busconexpo.com for more information. people. Highlights of the session will include using existing accounts to

See us at BusCon Booth #226 Page 24 BUSLINE September/October 2016 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 25

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See us at BusCon Booth #422 September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 25 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 26

Blue Bird To Launch New Commercial Line At BusCon Micro Bird To Showcase New D-Series MD Edition Buses

By Harrell Kerkhoff, Busline Magazine Editor

New product launches and four high-end buses will be showcased at the exhibition booth of Micro Bird Commercial and Blue Bird Commercial during the Bus- Con tradeshow, scheduled for September 19-21 at the Indiana Convention Center, in Ind ianapolis, IN. Micro Bird Commercial will highlight its new D-Series MD (Mid Door) edition, while Blue Bird will officially launch its commercial line at the event. Officials from both entities will also be on hand at the BusCon booth the answer questions and provide equipment tours. The vehicles on hand in India napolis from Micro Bird and Blue Bird will range from cutaways to larger transit style buses, accord- Blue Bird Commercial T3RE ing to Micro Bird Commercial National Sales Manager, James Mansell and Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Normand Pâquet. “It’s an exciting time for both Micro Bird and Blue Bird, and we are ready to tell all about it at BusCon. This includes the new Micro Bird Commercial D-Series MD edition. Micro Bird will also have a DLX version of its CT-Series bus at this event,” Mansell said. “Micro Bird’s partnership with Blue Bird is moving forward on the commercial side. Represen tatives of both companies, which are owned by the same organization, look forward to introducing new products and meeting current and potential customers. We encourage anybody looking for a commercial product to stop by.” On the Blue Bird side, the company will also be showcasing two vehicles at the exhibition booth — its Conventional front-tilt hood commercial bus designed for light-duty transit applications and its high-end Rear Engine coach-style bus, according to Blue Bird Director of Commercial Bus Sales, Rick Lee and Vice President for International Operations and Commercial Bus, Dean Coulson. Micro Bird Commercial CT-Series “Our main objective at BusCon is to help more people visualize what Blue Bird product platforms can do for them,” Coulson said. “We, at Blue Bird, are very excited about BusCon. It will provide a great opportunity for us to show our entire portfolio.” 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 27

MICRO BIRD D-SERIES MD EDITION FILLS NEED our dealers,” Mansell said. “It’s not about what works for Micro Bird, but rather what works for our dealers, including their managers and sales peo- ased on the company’s well-established D-Series bus platform, ple who make all of us successful.” Micro Bird Commercial’s MD edition will officially be intro- Although Micro Bird Commercial provides different types of bus Bduced at BusCon, featuring a 42-inch mid-door. vehicles, three of the key characteristics remain the same: quality, safety “The vehicle’s top quality and support. build stays the same, featuring a “The design and use of qual- steel structure and aluminum ity materials is essential in the siding. We are using the same construction of our products. type of door system, but it’s a This makes our vehicles last much larger door. This helps the longer, and means these buses D-Series enter new market seg- are less expensive to maintain ments, while keeping the same for customers over a longer body structure that our cus- period of time,” Mansell said. tomers have grown to love,” “Safety-wise, we know that our Mansell said. “Our D-Series customers appreciate the fact also features perimeter seating that we have a long history of and large luggage racks. producing safe vehicles. Our “We see the D-Series MD experience in the school bus edition doing well in such mar- Micro Bird Commercial business can only enhance the kets as airport and hotel shuttle D-Series MD Edition fact that we make one of the work. The MD edition fulfills a safest series of products for niche that our production capa- commercial bus users. bilities can easily accept.” “And the third part of our Although Micro Bird’s offi- success stems from our support cial launch of the D-Series structure. Micro Bird Comm - MD edition will take place at ercial has a dealer network in BusCon, the company “tested place throughout North Amer - the waters” earlier this year ica. We feel the support and with the vehicle in front of an service that customers receive expert customer panel consist- from Micro Bird is second to ing of sales people, managers none, especially on the com- and other bus professionals. mercial side.” “The D-Series MD edition Pâquet noted, as well, that was very well received by the Micro Bird Commercial has an panel. This adds to our excite- established product stocking ment when officially launching program in place. the product in front of dealers D-Series MD Edition interior “The inventory we have and customers at BusCon,” available increases on a month- Mansell said. to-month basis,” Pâquet said. Along with the D-Series, Micro Bird Mansell added: “Micro Bird Commercial is Commercial also produces its DS-Series; the able to carry many units itself for immediate CT-Series, for commercial transit services; delivery. This provides our dealers with the the S-Series, which is a single rear wheel opportunity to sell buses more quickly without model; and its specialty vehicle lineup. Micro having to carry a large number of stocked units. Bird Commercial’s bus models include lift- This is a commitment from our entire organiza- equipped options. tion. We have also expanded our base warranty, “This is a complete line of products featuring helping establish Micro Bird Commercial as different chassis, platforms, single and dual one of the leaders in the industry.” rear wheels, and now a mid-door edition as James Mansell Normand Pâquet Alternative fuel options are also important at well,” Mansell said. “We provide various configurations and options to Micro Bird Commercial. This includes propane. The company has enjoyed meet the needs of the commercial bus industry.” a long partnership with ROUSH CleanTech. Pâquet added: “As a company, Micro Bird has always had a reputation “We have been focused on propane because, for many of our cus- for quality and longevity. Customers appreciate that our units last longer tomers, propane makes the most sense. There are very few infrastructure and are easier to maintain. When you ride a Micro Bird bus, you feel less costs involved when switching to propane, and ROUSH has been a very vibration and hear less road noise. These are signs of quality. good partner,” Mansell said. “Our dealers sell propane-powered vehicles “Micro Bird uses top-of-the-line materials, while the lower total cost to such customers as ski resorts, park and rides, airport shuttles, schools of operation with these vehicles is something we also like to emphasize,” — it’s not limited to one specific market. he explained. “The MD edition will help Micro Bird Commercial enter “Overall, Micro Bird Commercial continues to focus on helping satis- new markets and speak to new customers.” fy the entire needs of our customers through our dealer network. Our slo- Mansell noted that it’s been two years since Micro Bird, which is cel- gan is, ‘A Legacy of Bus Innovations.’ We take our dealer and customer ebrating its 50th anniversary in 2016, began its U.S. commercial bus divi- needs very seriously in order to develop good products.” sion. Since then, company officials have focused on satisfying a larger He added that Micro Bird will remain dedicated to the commercial side North American dealership network. of the bus business. This includes a sales staff as well as engineering and “We take market requests from end-customers, but we work through R & D teams all focusing on the commercial industry.

September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 27 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 28

BLUE BIRD LAUNCHES COMMERCIAL LINE “Another of our ‘home run’ products is the Rear Engine commercial model,” Lee said. “We can offer this bus in fuel configurations including n business since 1927, Blue Bird Corporation has long established CNG and diesel. Since 48 passengers can ride in the vehicle, it’s good for itself as a trusted name in the bus transportation marketplace. Known over-the-road coach work, commuter shuttles and transit services. Ifor its long history with “I have been busy visiting school bus production, the our dealers, sharing my company is officially launch- vision and reviewing our ing its commercial line of products and where they fit products at BusCon. within the transportation bus “Blue Bird has been around marketplace. A lot of transit for a long time. We believe this agencies are being squeezed heritage helps customers see financially. As a response to value in the types of products this problem, we provide and services we now provide,” vehicles that will last a full Dean Coulson said. 10-year life cycle, which cor- There are three main prod- responds to many transit ucts in the Blue Bird Com - funding requirements.” mercial line that company offi- Both Lee and Coulson stress - cials feel will make a real dif- Blue Bird Commercial Conventional ed the importance of customer ference for potential end-use service when it comes to selling customers. These vehicles are different types of buses for the Blue Bird’s Conventional, various transpor tation market- Forward Engine and Rear places. Engine models. “It’s easy to sell a bus, but to “For the larger bus segment, truly win over a customer, you our Conventional product fea- have to support that vehicle. tures several power train possi- There are two main factors sur- bilities operating on diesel, rounding the Blue Bird gasoline, propane or CNG Commercial product that helps fuels. These options help Blue customers in a big way. No. 1, Bird find the right solution for we build both the chassis and each customer,” Coulson said. body together. When it comes “This is an Altoona-tested to service and warranty, it’s all product for 10-years of serv- under one umbrella — the ice/350,000 miles, which is Blue Bird umbrella. That is a above industry average. It’s Pictured above and below are Blue Bird Commercial interiors. very valuable feature we can also bigger than the typical offer,” Lee said. “No. 2, we cutaway. We feel there are customers have many dealers. We have 50 dealers who see value in this type of item. with brick and mortar operations sup- Blue Bird is working hard to grow porting the U.S. and Canadian markets. this commercial segment.” This is unique in the commercial bus The next level of commercial buses world. for Blue Bird are its Forward Engine “We also provide a detailed service and Rear Engine models. With the lat- manual. I have never seen a service ter type of vehicle, Coulson said it’s manual structured like what Blue Bird well positioned to offer customers a now provides. It’s phenomenal. We give different price point compared to large the customer all of the tools to keep motorcoaches currently in the market. their vehicles on the road.” “We think there are customers who Coulson added that Blue Bird enjoys see a real value proposition in this type a very good working relationship across of Rear Engine bus,” he explained. the entire joint venture with Micro Bird. “Many customers today are doing This includes dealers representing both some interesting things with rear entities who also have access to a wide engine transit bus transportation. We believe selection of school buses from both Micro Bird there will be more people who see value in the and Blue Bird. Blue Bird Commercial offering.” “Product depth is important. It brings Rick Lee, who was hired in February to help additional value to customers. On the com- oversee Blue Bird’s launch into the commercial mercial side, Blue Bird now offers a wide bus segment, said the company’s Conventional range of bus options,” Coulson said. “It’s product will be directed toward shuttle servic- also important to remember that many deal- es as well as mid- to heavy-transit applications. ers representing Blue Bird and Micro Bird Meanwhile, the Front Engine commercial have been in the bus business for a long model will be promoted as a very affordable time. They are familiar with servicing buses, people mover, such as for airport and employ- and understand how bus customers work. ee shuttles. Dean Coulson Rick Lee Our dealers are bus people.” Page 28 BUSLINE September/October 2016 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 29

50 YEARS OF PROGRESS small school bus manufacturer in existence, according to Steve Girardin. Over the years, the company’s product offering has expand- ince July of 1966, Micro Bird Inc., and the Girardin family, ed into new market segments, and eventually led to a joint venture with have been instrumental in helping develop and shape the North Blue Bird Corp., to produce Type A bus products. SAmerican school and commercial bus marketplaces. “Together, we have built a solid reputation as an innovator while “Buses have always been a part of the lives of producing small and medium buses of quality my brother Dave (Girardin) and I. Our father, and durability,” Steve Girardin said. “Our people André (Girardin), was in the bus business and culture have always been at the core and before we were born,” Micro Bird, Inc., foundation of our success. President Steve Gir ardin said. “He taught us “Over the next few years, we envision bus many important lessons, including to do things transportation will continue to be greatly for the right reasons. His priority has always been impacted by technology — from powertrain to for us to do something we are passionate about. vehicle management to routing technologies. That passion translates into being the best at what The list goes on and on. This technology will we do, and the rest naturally follows. We plan to make vehicles more intelligent, safer, comfort- celebrate our 50th anniversary with customers and employees.” able and efficient. As a leader in innovation, Micro Bird and Blue Bird Previously known as Girardin Minibus, Micro Bird began transform- will closely monitor the evolution of these technologies, ensuring we ing small vans into school buses 50 years ago, making it the oldest are always at the forefront and able to support our customers.”

THE VALUE OF HIGH-END PRODUCTS

istory has shown for both Micro Bird and Blue Bird that, entities. Mansell said the Micro Bird Commercial website at the end of the day, what their customers value most (www.mbcbus.com) provides added information, photos and a calen- Hinvolves dependable service, multiple options and quality dar of events, as well as an extensive catalog section which includes products. With Micro Bird Commercial, James Mansell added, the Micro Bird units currently in stock. company’s business niche is directed toward premium-minded Blue Bird Commercial also has a website in place (www.bluebird- customers. commercial.com), adding more tools and information for both cur- “Micro Bird Commercial representatives are looking to sell qual- rent and potential customers. ity brands that will last longer, while maintaining a lower total cost “We provide customers as much information as possible online to of operation,” he explained. “It’s also important that customers are help them with their purchase choices. It’s important they have the satisfied with our vehicles’ resale value. Micro Bird has the highest right information to begin with when they visit or talk with our deal- resale of any product in the marketplace. This is due to our quality ers,” he said. “We realize that millennials are more focused on get- of build and reputation.” ting information online and that they are also very product-savvy. Normand Pâquet added that through Micro Bird Commercial’s Therefore, it’s important to properly communicate to these cus- different series options (including D, S and CT), a wide variety of tomers what we have to offer.” configurations and seat plans are available. He noted that the familiar “bird” symbol is present on all Micro “This allows us to provide both small and large bus models. The Bird and Blue Bird commercial and school buses. This is by design. needs of our customers are always taken into consideration,” Pâquet “We embrace the ‘bird’ on the side of all our vehicles due to the said. “With Blue Bird becoming involved in the commercial bus brand’s strong recognition,” Mansell said. “It stands for quality, business as well, our joint venture will provide a complete line of safety and innovation. The ‘bird’ represents strong value for our vehicles including larger conventional, transit style and cut-away dealers and customers, too. We never want to forget our roots and buses. We are looking to grow our commercial business within the what has made Micro Bird and Blue Bird successful in the bus dealer network for both Micro Bird and Blue Bird. industry. We have been able to bring over a lot of great ideas to the “In the past 12 months, Micro Bird Commercial has introduced its commercial bus side.” CT-Series for transit operators and now the D-Series MD edition. In As Micro Bird celebrates its 50th year in 2016, Mansell said terms of leadership, we lead by innovation.” the golden anniversary truly signifies the company’s successful Micro Bird Commercial representatives look for the best bus partnerships that have been in place with employees, dealers and technology available in the world, Mansell added, and company rep- customers. resentatives will continue to seek partnerships to further grow tech- “Along with Blue Bird’s nearly 90 years of service, these two nology options. companies have demonstrated their long-term commitments to the “Alternative fuels are one thing, but it’s also important to look bus industry,” Pâquet added. “We, at Micro Bird, feel 50 years at everything else that goes into building a bus,” he said. “This young rather than 50 years old, and will continue to dedicate our- includes technology involving backup cameras, GPS systems, Wi- selves to the decades ahead. Fi, etc.” “I feel we have just scratched the surface to where Micro Bird and Marketing also plays a role in helping customers learn more Blue Bird are heading. We have seen the list of new customers grow about various product offerings and services provided by both due to our quality products, service and reputation.”

Contact: Micro Bird Commercial, Phone: 855-628-MBUS Contact: Blue Bird Commercial, Phone: 478-731-9294; (6287); Email: [email protected]. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.mbcbus.com. Website: www.bluebirdcommercial.com.

September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 29 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/25/16 10:46 AM Page 30 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/25/16 10:46 AM Page 31 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 32

NCTD: Continued From Page 19 “Our customer service philosophy is outlined by the “At NCTD, our goal isn’t just to provide safe and reliable service tenets of our mission statement, namely, to provide safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public for our customers, it’s also to make sure our service is efficient.” transportation services,” Manager of Customer Ser - — Manager of Scheduling Bryan Killian vice Brian Burkett said. “Our goals are to place our customers first in order to provide high-quality transit stay in touch with a larger group of customers,” Burkett said. services. All of our internal and contracted employees are trained “Though we have representatives available seven days a week, to provide the best service possible to customers, regardless of with this technology, customers can still get information on their their specific role in the agency.” own timetables, as well as real time service updates.” Modern technologies also play an important role in NCTD’s NCTD employs more than 750 people, of which 600 are con- marketing and customer service efforts. tract employees. “The Internet, including social media outlets, have helped us “It takes a large team to run a transit system. As such, employees (both direct and contracted) are essential to the success of NCTD,” Sawyer said.

Looking Ahead

ith NCTD currently on solid financial footing, officials see a Wbright future for public transportation in North San Diego County; however, there is always the challenge of future funding. “NCTD carries significant responsi- bility for maintaining and operating its services and facilities in a safe and efficient manner. Securing adequate revenues to maintain the 100-year old coastal rail corridor will continue to be a challenge,” Sawyer said. “We, along with SANDAG (The San Diego Association of Governments) have a variety of future goals for enhanced Your one stop shop for coach, rail, and ship interiors. service. These include double tracking our COASTER rail system, and expand- Upholstery, New & Used passenger & Drivers ing it to the Marine Corps Base Camp seats, ooring, oor structural, foam, gas Pendleton; replacing vehicles for struts and upholstery cleaning machines. COASTER, SPRINTER and BREEZE; and enhancing services on all modes with Dealers for Isringhausin and National Seats, increased frequencies and longer hours of operation. we have a full stock of seats and parts for “With the growth of San Diego County, both brands. We also have parts for Ameri- NCTD’s bus and rail service will continue can, Amaya, Vanhool and Wakeeld seats. to be a relevant transportation option for residents and tourists for years to come.” If we don't have it, we can get it.

Over 40 years of service to the motorcoach industry, all seat covers guaranteed for 4 years or 400,000 miles. Contact: Any questions about your seats or other needs, please North County Transit District, call 425-432-9867 or visit us at www.willinghaminc.com. 810 Mission Ave., Oceanside, CA 92054. Phone: 760-966-6500. Website: www.gonctd.com. Photos courtesy of NCTD.

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Indian Trails Takes Delivery in the U.S. and Canada.” The company purchased its first Prevost X-Series® vehicle 15 years Of 10 Prevost Coaches ago, and in addition to the 10 commuter coaches, recently added five Prevost H3-45® models to its group charter and tour fleet. The new Indian Trails, a charter bus company based in Owosso, MI, recently X3-45 coaches feature photos of some of Michigan’s most popular took delivery of 10 “Buy America” compliant, Prevost X3-45® vacation destinations and largest cities, and they carry the Pure Commuter coaches. The purchase took place in partnership with the Michigan logo. Michigan Department of Transportation as part of the Federal Transit “We invest in coaches with the latest safety, comfort, and eco-friendly Administration’s (FTA) Non- features because of our commit- Urbanized Area Formula Grant ment to our customers, our com- Program. munities, and our environment,” “Section 5311 of the grant pro- said Indian Trails President gram allows the FTA, on behalf Gordon Mackay. “We’re also ex - of the U.S. Secretary of Trans - cited about helping to promote portation, to allocate apportioned Michigan travel in a big way. funds to each state. Funding is After all, we’re a Michigan trans- awarded for the purpose of sup- portation company, and—partly porting public transportation in with MDOT’s support—we oper- non-urbanized areas in order to ate 38 daily scheduled bus routes increase access to employment, statewide, as well as into Chicago, health care, education, public Duluth and Milwaukee.” services, etc., for rural residents. Each coach has a wheelchair The program provides for the lift and has been customized with participation of private trans- assistive listening devices called portation providers such as Indian Trails,” said Prevost. hearing loops. Hearing loops transmit the audio from a PA system direct- “A 106-year-old family business, Indian Trails is Michigan’s first and ly to telecoil-equipped hearing aids and cochlear implants. The telecoil largest privately owned bus transportation operator, carrying 1.2 million functions as an antenna, relaying sounds directly into the ear without passengers more than 4.8 million miles annually. Indian Trails’ daily runs background noise just like Wi-Fi connects people to the Web. connect directly with both the Amtrak and Greyhound national networks, Visit www.prevostcar.com which in turn connect with some 60 other bus transportation companies for more information. TransitAd_BuslineMag.qxp_Layout 1 8/20/15 11:30 AM Page 1

High Performance Transit Brake Linings & Air Disc Pads

From North America’s #1 Name in Transit Friction Marathon’s industry leading and OE approved KVT brake linings and DiscStar air disc pads are proven performers for transit and coach lines across the country. KVT and DiscStar are quiet, long life materials that are friendly to drums and rotors. To get the most from your bus brakes, count on Marathon!

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September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 33 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 34

Continental Introduces Its ProViu ASL360 Camera System For Improved Bus Safety And Visibility

The Commercial Vehicles & Aftermarket business unit of Continental, the video feeds as a single panoramic stream on a 7-inch display. The sys- supplier of systems and components to automobile, bus and truck manu- tem offers a choice of angles: top-down bird's eye, raw 180-degree, spe- facturers, now offers the ProViu® ASL360 Camera System designed to cific focus single views and multiple split screen. The ProViu ASL360 give bus and motorcoach drivers a complete view of their surroundings, can be installed on any type of bus or motorcoach.” when operating a vehicle. “The 360-degree view system provides com- The system can help drivers maneuver vehicles into tight bus stops and plete visibility in all driving scenarios, allowing for the safest pick-up and parking spaces, safely and quickly. discharge of passengers and easier maneuvering in narrow spaces,” said Continental also offers a commercial-grade DVR to complement its the company. ProViu ASL360 Camera System. The DVR gives users GPS function- “The ProViu ASL360 system allows the bus operator to see all around ality and the capability to record up to 32 GB of footage on an SD card. the vehicle at a single glance, from one video screen. Four, wide-angle The new DVR can record up to four video feeds at one time. It can also micro-cameras monitor the front, rear and sides of the vehicle and display record vehicle speed and has a G-sensor to log acceleration while recording video. Continental’s product portfolio for different types of vehicles includes: instrument clus- ters, multifunctional and head-up displays, control units, access control and tire-information systems, radios, infotainment systems, input devices, control panels, climate control units, software, cockpits as well as services and solutions for telematics and Intelligent Transportation Systems. Visit http://goo.gl/4T7gHJ or contact: [email protected] for more information.

Hometown Trolley Acquires The Supreme Corporation’s Classic American Operate safely and easily Trolley Product Line with a perfect 360° view. Hometown Trolley, a trackless trolley bus man- The ProViu® ASL360 Camera System gives ufacturer, has acquired Supreme Corporation’s drivers an all-around view so they can drive Classic American Trolley Product Line. better and safer. Using four, wide-angle HD cameras, the ProViu system monitors the front, rear and sides of the bus. The four views are combined into a single, top-down view of the bus and its surroundings. Blind spots are reduced and potential hazards exposed. When loading, unloading or maneuvering “Hometown Trolley is a family-owned through tra ic, ProViu ASL360 keeps drivers company in its 38th year of business, based fully aware of everyone and everything that’s in Crandon, WI, with over 800 Hometown happening around them. ProViu ASL360 makes Trolleys in active service. With the addition driving easier and reduces the risk of accidents. of the Classic American Trolleys (built by Give your operation the added safety and Supreme), there are well over 1,500 trolleys security of ProViu ASL360 Camera Systems. in active use today, carrying over 10 million passengers annually across the nation and beyond. For additional information, contact: “Hometown Trolley plans to focus on sales [email protected] Scan to see video. growth and continued advancement of technol- or call: 800-564-5066 ogy to improve the trolley designs including the ProViu – A Trademark of www.continental-corporation.com the Continental Corporation full electric trolley.” Visit www.hometowntrolley.com for more information. Page 34 BUSLINE September/October 2016 CO3613 BusLine_Mag_ProViu 360 Bus_HalfP_Island_Jul-Aug-2016_V1.indd 1 6/17/16 3:18 PM 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 35

AMF-Bruns Offers Protection In Rear-End Collisions The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says wheelchair securement products, occupied restraint systems and associat- that the head, neck, chest, pelvis, abdomen, legs and feet are the most ed equipment for the safe transportation of people with limited mobility. common body parts to be injured in a motor vehicle crash. The best pro- AMF-Bruns’ product leadership and focus in providing safe, flexible and tection is a shoulder & lap belt system, combined with a 4-point wheel- leading edge solutions for wheelchair passenger travel speak for itself, as chair restraint system. it has been credited for several industry “firsts.” AMF-Bruns of America—a global leader in the vehicle modification The company ensures the highest degree of quality in accordance with industry—offers this protection through its wheelchair securement and ISO 9001. It services customers in more than 50 countries throughout occupant restraint systems. In the 1970s the company developed the first North and South America, Europe, Australia and Asia. A state-of-the-art wheelchair safety system and invented the world’s first 4-point retractor testing and research facility in Germany employs some of the industry’s wheelchair anchoring system. Founded in Germany in 1958, the U.S. dis- brightest minds who are committed to taking technology to the next level. tribution facility opened in 2013. Call 877-506-3770 or visit AMF-Bruns of America offers a one-stop solution: www.amfbrunsamerica.com for more information. n PROTEKTOR®-System Wheelchair and Occ - upant Restraints—A wide variety of wheelchair and occupant restraints that meet the latest international and national standards, including RESNA WC18 for wheel- chairs with an integrated lap belt; and, WHAT’S HOLDING YOU BACK... IN A REAR-END COLLISION?

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PERSONNEL Complete Coach Works and Shannon Vaught, assistant general man- Hires New Sales Managers ager-TX, will continue to maintain current customer relationships throughout the Complete Coach Works (CCW) has hired James (Jim) F. Paul as Southern region. Northwest Regional sales manager, Michael (Mike) Klein as Southwest Santoyo is a United States Naval Regional sales manager and Aaron Timlick as general manager for the Reserves veteran and was recalled to active Alameda, CA, facility. duty to serve in Iraq. He received a variety Jim Paul held previous senior management positions, and has more of awards for outstanding service that than 25 years of automotive expertise. include Navy Marine Corps Achievement In over 15 years of experience, Mike Klein has held several positions Medal and Sailor of the Year. in the transit industry. Temsa said, “Santoyo joined the industry Aaron Timlick worked 5 years as a production supervisor at CCW, and as a journeyman technician for Greyhound Mark Santoyo has over 10 years experience in the transit industry. in 1990. Throughout his 26-plus years in Complete Coach Works is a U.S. bus remanufacturing and rehabilita- the motorcoach industry, he has held roles in shop management, fleet tion company with over 28 years in the transportation industry. It offers a service and parts support, sales, and operations management. Santoyo has team of over 350 employees. a wealth of knowledge and experience in leadership roles and comes to Contact Celeste Casas at 800-287-7253 or e-mail ccasas@complete- CH Bus with a background not only on the distributor/sales side but also coach.com for more information. from an operator senior management perspective.” Santoyo can be contacted at 972-310-6081 or via email at From Temsa: [email protected]. CH Bus Sales Hires New Account Executive For Southern Region Lynn Sansone Named Vice President Of On Your Mark Transportation CH Bus Sales has hired Mark Santoyo as an account executive for the Southern Region. He is responsible for creating new and building on On Your Mark Transportation, of Nashville, TN, a consultant firm existing relationships in the motorcoach industry with a focus on the ter- serving the passenger ground transportation industry, has named Lynn ritory of Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Sansone vice president. Sansone held previous positions as president of Colorado, and New Mexico. Gem Transportation, Hazelwood, MO, and Central States Trailways, St. Tim Vaught, vice president of sales, service, and product development Louis, MO.

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PERSONNEL On Your Mark Transportation President portation. Mobley was responsible for five and CEO Mark Szyperski said Sansone’s operating facilities with nearly 1,600 role will be to provide direction and support employees. She rose through the ranks at to clients on the services On Your Mark Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Transportation provides, which include Authority from bus operator to general preparing customized content for employee superintendent at the beginning of her handbooks, pre-DOT and DOD inspection career. audits, consultation and guidance for new CATS operates nearly 75 bus routes entrants in the passenger transportation and paratransit service with more than industry, grant and RFP research and writ- 400 buses and vanpool service with near- Lynn Sansone ing, as well as consulting in associated ly 100 vans. areas of business. Visit www.ridetransit.org Tangee Mobley On Your Mark Transportation serves clients in bus and coach, luxury for more information. ground transportation and school bus companies throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. Visit www.OnYourMarkTransportation.com or call 615-504-6275 for Bailey Coach President Elected more information. Chair Of Pennsylvania Bus Association

Tangee Mobley Named General Manager John W Bailey, president of Bailey Of Bus Operations At CATS Coach, with headquarters in York, PA, and vice president of Travel Time, with offices The Charlotte, NC, Area Transit System has hired Tangee Mobley as in Lancaster and York, PA, was elected general manager of bus operations. She is responsible for managing bus chairman of the Pennsylvania Bus operations including fixed route service, special transportation service Association at its annual meeting in (paratransit), bus maintenance and vanpool. Gettysburg, PA, in June. Most recently, she was employed by the Central Florida Regional Bailey, who is a second generation mem- Transportation Authority in Orlando, FL, as director of transportation and ber in his family’s travel and transportation maintenance. businesses, can trace his travel industry Prior to this position, she worked with the Metropolitan Transit roots to back when his uncle, Glenn Bailey, Authority of Harris County in Houston as the senior director of trans- a teacher at York High School, York, PA, John W Bailey

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September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 37 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 38

PERSONNEL organized a group of students that traveled via train to attend the 1933 owned, women-owned, veteran-owned and small disadvantaged business World’s Fair in Chicago, IL. Bailey’s travel companies specialize in cor- enterprises,” according to a press release. porate travel management, group, incentive and personal travel arrange- Peters served as the small business program analyst for Metropolitan ments along with a full range of personal and group motorcoach trans- Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), where he increased diverse portation with a fleet of 25 vehicles. suppliers, supplier development, and external community involvement. Bailey has served as a board member for many years, and vice chair- Prior to that, Peters monitored Local Small Business Enterprise plans and man of the Pennsylvania Bus Association for the past four years. His past procurement processes as a senior contract compliance officer. service includes: past president of the Delaware Valley American of In addition, he previously served with community development funder, Travel Agents, past president of the Hanover Rotary Club, past president Enterprise Community Partners as a program director assisting with con- of the Lafayette Club, past president of the United Cerebral Palsy of tract and budget approval processes and providing technical assistance to South Central PA, past president of the Spring Grove Scholarship small businesses and community-based organizations. Peters served on Foundation, and current member of the Board of directors of the York the Atlanta Beltline Tax Allocation District Advisory as part of a sustain- County Community Foundation. able redevelopment project that will provide a network of parks, trails The Pennsylvania Bus Association was founded in 1923 and represents and transit along a historic 22-mile Atlanta railroad corridor. the motorcoach industry with 52 motorcoach operator members, 325 Peters earned a Juris Doctorate degree from Texas Southern travel industry related members, and 25 companies that service the University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and an undergraduate motorcoach industry. Visit www.pabus.org degree from The University of Texas at for more information. Austin.

Demarcus Peters Cincinnati Metro Named Director Of Diversity CEO Dwight A. Ferrell Receives At Cincinnati Metro COMTO Thomas G. Neusom Founders’ Leadership Award Demarcus Peters has joined Cincinnati Metro as director of diversity - Title VI, Cincinnati Metro CEO & General DBE compliance and EEO officer. In this Manager Dwight Ferrell was awarded the newly created role, Peters oversees efforts Thomas G. Neusom Founders’ Leadership to, “identify, expand and accelerate the use Award by the Conference of Minority of diverse suppliers, including minority- Demarcus Peters Transportation Officials (COMTO) during Dwight A. Ferrell

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PERSONNEL its annual conference in July. ple roles in engineering, product design, “The award is the highest honor bestowed by COMTO and honors and most recently as bid administrator/sales public and private transportation executives and policymakers responsi- engineer at ARBOC. ble for the direction and operation of their agency or organization and Founded in 2008, ARBOC Specialty who, through their affiliation with COMTO, have made outstanding con- Vehicles has four key product offerings, tributions towards the growth and development of people of color within the Spirit of Mobility, Spirit of Freedom, the transportation industry and have given continued and outstanding Spirit of Independence and Spirit of service and leadership to the organization,” according to a press release. Liberty. ARBOC offers low-floor paratran- “This award is reserved for a COMTO member who demonstrates, in sit products that serve a variety of industries his or her everyday life, the same spirit of achievement as COMTO’s and applications. founders.” Visit www.ARBOCsv.com. Scott Defrees Founded in 1971, COMTO was created to provide a forum for senior level minority professionals in the transportation industry. DATTCO Buys 100th Van Hool Motorcoach Metro is a non-profit, tax-funded public service of the Southwest Ohio DATTCO Inc., a New Britain, CT-based transportation operation, Regional Transit Authority, providing about 17 million rides per year. recently purchased its 100th Van Hool coach. DATTCO was established Visit www.go-metro.com for more information. in 1924, and now, the second and third generations of the DeVivo family are involved in manage- ARBOC Specialty Vehicles Names ment. Rick Thompson And Scott Defrees It (www.dattco.com) is As Regional Sales Managers one of the Northeast’s largest passenger tran spor - ARBOC Specialty Vehicles has hired tation companies. Rick Thompson and Scott Defrees as Shown, left to right, are regional sales managers. Janos Bokor, of ABC Thompson has product and sales experi- Companies; Colin John son, ence in the mobility and bus industry, hav- Don DeVivo and Dennis ing spent the past 12 years working as a Lyons, all of DATTCO; Ricon Corp. sales manager. Mike Laffan, of ABC Companies; and Paul Mayer, of DATTCO. Defrees also has 12 years of experience Rick Thompson Call 800-222-2875 or visit www.abc-companies.com. in the bus industry where he has held multi- EFFICIENCY RELIABILITYITY Air Conditioning Electric PERFORMANCEDiscover electricityNC

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September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 39 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 40

From Temsa: Niagara’s coaches are equipped with 110V plugs, USB ports, a pre- heater, monitors, and upright mirrors. Niagara Scenic Tours Adds Second TS 35 To Fleet Visit www.niagarascenictours.net for more information.

Keith Fisher, president of Niagara Scenic Tours said, “The quality of Stylus Transportation Now Has 6 Temsa TS 45s our equipment combined with our extensive driver training programs and customer service is what makes our company unique.” Fernando Martinez, co-owner of Stylus Transportation Corp., said According to Temsa, Stylus began providing transportation 20 years ago when Valeria Iorio “In 1976, Niagara Scenic recognized a high demand from international travelers, particularly out of Bus Lines, which at the South America. In 2006, Fernando Martinez joined as co-owner. time was a scheduled air- Martinez attributes much of the success of Stylus to “understanding the port-hotel shuttle service, culture of our South American visitors.” was acquired and this Following the acquisition of TraveLynx Premium Ground Transportation development launched last spring, Stylus has expanded. Now the company offers charter services to the company. Over the attractions in Florida and also brings customers to destinations along the coast next 20 years, the com- and into Canada. pany began to purchase The company’s fleet consists of 30 coaches and 15 vans. Recently, the motorcoaches to run char - company purchased its ter operations and acquired D & F Transit in 1985. sixth Temsa TS 45. The “After 12 years, the company sold to Coach USA which operated the company first purchased western New York area until 2005. Niagara Scenic Tours was reborn that the 56 passenger Temsa same year, and now the company operates a fleet of 14 motorcoaches, 2 vehicle in February of cutaways, 1 shuttle and 12 vans.” 2016. Two of the six Currently in its fourth generation as a family-owned operation, Temsas are ADA accessi- Niagara’s charters and tour operations run throughout western New York, ble with a wheelchair lift. east of the Mississippi and Canada. “Additional standard The new Temsa TS 35 is the company’s second. Niagara purchased its safety features on the Temsa TS 45 coach include an engine fire suppression first TS 35 in early 2014. The majority of Niagara’s groups consist of col- system, lane departure warning system, tire pressure monitoring system, and lege athletics, scheduled tours, casinos, and school groups and the 40 pas- laminated plus tempered windows. senger TS 35 is recommended for sports teams. CH Bus Sales, LLC, is the exclusive distributor of Temsa motorcoaches in Niagara also provides transportation for many of the local teams the United States. including the Rochester Red Wings and the Buffalo Bisons. Visit www.stylusbus.com and www.chbussales.com.

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See us at BusCon Booth #530 Page 40 BUSLINE September/October 2016 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 41

PACCAR Parts Offers New Line Of Bus Safety Equipment

PACCAR Parts has recently expanded its bus product line with new safety equipment, the Spheros Bus SMART Roof Hatches and BESI Securements. “This new offering further enhances PACCAR Parts’ products in the aftermarket bus segment,” said Bart Lore, general marketing manager for PACCAR Parts. Both BESI and Sphero meet or exceed Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. “Roof hatches serve as ventilation hatches and emergency exits with an improved leak-free, low profile design and enhanced locking mechanism. An internal mounting option minimizes leakage, with no holes through the roof sheet or mounting frame. An easy emergency release complies fully with federal regulations, and re-latching takes just one movement, making hatch function checks fast and reliable. “BESI produces securement products to suit fleets’ needs and budgets. For simpler support, BESI Over the Shoulder Securements offer additional upper-body support in combination with a lap belt. BESI Securement Vests offer greater security, attached insert panels, adjustable shoulder features, and a range of sizes and inserts to fit any child. The BESI Pro-Tech Series pro- Spheros Bus SMART Roof Hatch vides both security and comfort with memory foam and lumbar support, while RF-welded seams prevent fluid penetration. All Spheros and BESI products are tested to meet federal standards for safety.” PACCAR Parts operates a network of parts distribution centers offering aftermarket parts sales support to DAF, Kenworth and Peterbilt dealerships, and TRP stores around the world.

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See us at BusCon Booth #526 September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 41 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 42

MCI/Setra Purchases family member to the founders. “The latest MCI delivery brings nearly half of Star Shuttle’s 38-J4500 MCI Completes Delivery Of 42 Commuter Coaches To Denver RTD fleet to less than three years old. The company also operates as the Gray “MCI has completed the delivery of 42 D-Series Commuter Coaches Line sightseeing affiliate for Austin and San Antonio. The company of a $26 million contract it prevoiously announced with the Denver recently launched a new marketing campaign along with a new sightsee- Regional Transportation District (RTD). The delivery follows 2013 and ing tour to the Texas Hill Country and a day tour of Austin,” said MCI. 2015 orders. Denver RTD’s fleet includes 161 newer MCI Commuter The company’s Texas Hill Country wine tour and LBJ's boyhood home Coaches operating on Denver RTD’s regular-route express service and its scores high on Trip Advisor. new Flatiron Flyer BRT (bus rapid transit) service between Denver and Star Shuttle’s fleet also includes mini-buses, and vans to handle groups Boulder. The new coaches replace of any size. older models past their useful life on Walker said, “Our drivers wear uniforms, are well trained, regular-route express service,” and make sure that passengers have a pleasant experience. We according to an MCI press release. know of their success and ours by customer testimonials. We’re The Buy America-compliant MCI honored to mark 25 years serving Texas, and the new coaches Commuter Coach features plush, for- are our way of thanking our customers and giving them more ward-facing seating and overhead reasons to travel with us.” parcel racks with individual reading Star Shuttle was founded in 1991 by members of the Walker lights and airflow controls. They family. Their work in transportation began in 1963 with a six- have 110V/USB outlets at each seat, vehicle rental car operation that evolved into the international bike racks, a wheelchair lift and clean-diesel engine technolo- Advantage Rent-A-Car that the fami- gy. Denver RTD’s FasTracks transit expansion will add 118 ly sold in 2006. miles of bus rapid transit service, 21,000 new parking spaces The Walkers also own and operate at rail and bus stations, and enhanced bus service. several other businesses in the area including Gray Line Tours and Star Shuttle & Charter Buys 11 MCI J4500 Coaches Abbey Walker Executive Cars and Star Shuttle & Charter, a San Antonio-based charter and Limousines. In 2013, United Motor tour coach company, now celebrating its 25th anniversary, has Coach Association honored Star added 11 new 2016 MCI J4500 coaches. Shuttle with the Vision Award, for its Austin Walker is general manager, and a second generation high standards.

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Page 42 BUSLINE September/October 2016 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 5:33 PM Page 43

Corporate Coach Charter & Tours First To Go Has 2 Restyled Comfort Class Setra S 407 Coaches

MCI, the North American distributor of Daimler Bus-built Setra coaches, announced that the Los Angeles, CA-based company is the GHVLJQHGIRUGHVLJQHG IRU first operator in the United States to take delivery of two restyled 0RWRU&RDFK0RWRU0 W &RDFK& DQG7UDQVLW%XV7UDQVLW %XV Comfort Class Setra S407s. Paul Eshaghi founded Corporate Coach Charter, and was already a 7KH'HO6WDU6HULHVDOWHUQDWRUVDUHDQLQWHJUDOFKDUJLQJ Setra customer with two 2015 Setra S 417 coaches. V\VWHPRIDQLQQRYDWLYHEUXVKOHVVGHVLJQ7KHFRPSDFW +LJK2XWSXW KHDY\GXW\FRQVWUXFWLRQSURYLGHVLQFUHDVHGVHUYLFHOLIH %UXVKOHVV H[SHFWHGWRPDWFKWKHORQJHUPDLQWHQDQFHLQWHUYDOVRI $LU&RROHG WRGD\¶VHQJLQHVZKLOHSURYLGLQJDSHUIRUPDQFHOHYHO /LJKW:HLJKW ZLWKRXWSDUDOOHO &RPSDFW

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MCI showcased Corporate Coach’s new S 407 at its customer-appreciation $SHUIHFWGURSLQIRUDOO Reliability Rally in Los Alamitos, CA. Pictured, from left, are Brent Maitland, FUDGOHPRXQWDSSOLFDWLRQV 77\SHPRXQW vice president of marketing and product planning; Patricia Ziska, vice president of new coach sales; Paul Eshaghi, Corporate Coach Charter and Tours &$1$'$ (;32576$/(6 founder; and Dave Dorr, regional vice president of sales. 'L[LH(OHFWULF/WG 7HO %DVDOWLF5RDG )D[ Visit www.CCCTours.com, www.mcicoach.com &RQFRUG21 (PDLOVDOHV#GL[LHHOHFWULFFRP and www.newflyer.com. &DQDGD/.: ZZZGL[LHHOHFWULFFRP See us at BusCon Booth #323

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Plus more on our website: www.midwestbus.com Call: 800-627-6627 Midwest Bus Corporation, 1940 W. Stewart Street, Owosso, MI 48867

See us at BusCon Booth #1229 September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 43 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 44

ABC Celebrates 40 Years At Winter Garden, FL, Location

“Originally opened as a small service facility on the edge of an orange Forty years later, ABC’s Winter Garden facility offers a sales and grove, 2016 will mark the ABC Florida location’s 40th year in operation. service operation that spans 56,000 square feet located on 30 acres. Started as a hobby during his ‘first retirement,’ by founder Clancy The location features a 10,000-sq.-ft. collision facility, 10,000-sq.-ft. Cornell, the original five-acre facility in Winter Garden, FL, became the paint and graphics operation with three paint booths, a 3,500-sq.-ft. beginning of the compa- showroom and 23 serv- ny’s now nationwide ice bays. repair and service net- Two individual parts work. The ABC Service warehouses span 15,000 division currently oper- sq. feet, and provide on- ates in seven locations— site access to inventory covering the entire coun- of replacement parts for try from coast to coast,” popular equipment makes according to a press and models of today. The release. parts facility also serves In 1974, Clancy Cor - as the distribution center nell purchased a five- for weekly container acre property in Winter shipments of Van Hool Garden, just outside the parts. As they arrive from Orlando area. ABC in Winter Garden opened as a small facility on the edge of an orange grove. overseas, shipments are “Our dad quickly rec- In 2016, ABC is celebrating the Florida facility’s 40th year in operation. sorted and deployed from ognized that the area’s the Florida location to booming tourism industry and its impact on tour and charter operations replenish ABC parts and service centers around the country. was driving strong demand for quality equipment and service,” said Dane Winter Garden serves as the receiving center for all OEM Van Hool Cornell, chairman and chief executive officer. “When he first opened equipment. As new coaches arrive in port at New Brunswick, GA, ABC’s shop in Winter Garden we were all hands-on with servicing the buses. We PDI Group (pre-delivery and inspection) is responsible for all aspects of would literally drive the buses underneath a makeshift garage my dad approving, processing and handling all new coach deliveries prior to turn- constructed from a shipping container built with a lean-to roof.” ing over to customers for delivery.

See us at BusCon Booth #1021 Page 44 BUSLINE September/October 2016 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 45

Winter Garden is also the location of ABC’s Nationwide CustomerCare Center. The CustomerCare group offers comprehensive warranty support Hoyo System is an innovative way of for all OEM Van Hool models and staffs three in-house engineers who work in conjunction with ABC sales and field personnel to support the attaching SOFT silicone to any surface. customer. It also serves as a liaison between ABC customers and Van Hool to facilitate product improvements and refinements based on customer feedback from the field. The facility is home to the second and third generations of Cornells, who continue to steer the family-run business from their Florida location. HOYOGUARD The strategic location, combined with a full-service offering of sales, HEAD BUMPER service, parts, warranty support and live customer support center make the -proven & eective facility the busiest of ABC’s locations nationwide. -soft & durable “Four decades later, we are proud to celebrate Clancy’s vision and his business legacy,” said Tim Wayland, president & chief commercial offi- -no more bumps and bruises cer. “His innate ability to recognize a market need and fill that demand is -no more incident reports a testimony to his business acumen. His exemplary leadership still moti- - ts REI 15.4 LCD vates the ABC staff and management team today and is the driving force behind our ongoing market success.” “It’s remarkable to reflect on our expansion from a five-acre outpost to HOYO SYSTEM a 30-acre campus today,” said Dane Cornell. “Our steady growth is directly attributable to the loyalty of our great customers, a solid long-term part- -manufactured in USA nership with Van Hool, and the day-to-day hard work and contributions of -customizable to t your needs the ABC staff.” -$49.95 each unit -Ad Special $39.95 Today the ABC brand name is synonymous with quality and innovation built on customer relationships that have endured over 60 years. The com- Hoyoguard / Clonies inc pany is committed to supporting the motorcoach industry by providing PO Box 564 world-class sales, service and a support network that covers North Windermere Florida 34786 America. Marcelino Hoyo Direct line 407-963-6811 Call 800-222-2875 or visit www.abc-companies.com for more information. For solutions please contact: [email protected]

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September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 45 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 46

Complete Coach Works Completes Third Metro St. Louis Contract

Complete Coach Works (CCW) has completed a contract to provide next to a 2016 model bus and no one could tell that it wasn’t brand new. seven refurbished low-floor buses to Metro Transit (Metro) in St. Louis, By the appearance, even the passengers don’t realize it’s a refurbished MO. The buses underwent a complete refurbishment that included the bus,” Darren Curry, Metro’s chief mechanical officer said. power train and suspension, wheelchair fold-out In previous contracts with CCW, Metro St. ramps, and complete interior and exterior rehabil- Louis bought 10 buses for the St. Clair County itation. division and 15 refurbished articulated buses for “The seven buses Metro acquired will primari- use in St. Louis on routes with the heaviest pas- ly function to support the St. Louis Cardinals’ senger loads. Redbird Express during the Cardinals’ home Complete Coach Works is a U.S. bus remanu- games. When they are not being utilized for the facturing and rehabilitation company. games, they will be integrated into the active fleet of Metro’s East Saint Louis facility,” said CCW. Contact Celeste Casas at 800-287-7253 “I knew we were successful with this project or e-mail [email protected] when I saw one of these seven buses sitting right for more information.

Volvo 9700 Enters Canadian Market

The Volvo 9700, distributed by Prevost, debuted into the Canadian market at the 2016 Ontario Transportation Expo conference in Toronto. “It offers a modern, exterior design and elegant interior. In-line with the Volvo environmental men- tality, the Volvo 9700 provides green efficiency options. It reduces the carbon footprint of the vehicle and operations. The 9700’s D13 engine, with reduced internal friction and improved combustion, helps to save fuel and reduce emissions,” said Prevost. “The Volvo 9700 offers preventive safety with its Electronic Brake System (EBS), Electronic Control Suspension (ECS), and Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which are fully integrated, resulting in efficiency, a smoother and more comfortable ride, and improved vehicle handling under all road conditions.” Visit www.prevostcar.com for more information.

See us at BusCon Booth #1422 Page 46 BUSLINE September/October 2016 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 47

SouthWest Transit Receives National Honors For Bus Safety And Security

The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) has awarded SouthWest Transit, Eden Prairie, MN, its 2016 Certificate of Merit for Safety, and 2016 Certificate of Merit for Security for bus systems with fewer than 4 million passenger trips annually. “SouthWest Transit was recognized for instituting changes in safety culture leading to zero lost days as a result of injury, a chargeable accident rate of less than .63 per 100,000 miles driven, as well as for Home of the Best Full-Service creating an exceptional Emergency Preparedness Plan that is useful for Travel Plaza in Northern Illinois day-to-day activities as well as Featuring… emergency situations,” said APTA. “This is the sixth year SouthWest Transit has been recognized by APTA for its safety program and the second time its security program has been recognized.” “This is not about just one person or one team doing the right thing,” said SouthWest Transit Chief Executive Officer Len Simich. “It’s about everyone working together to make sure our customers are safely trans- ported to and from work and home. This award recognizes the hard work, Seating for 175, Homestyle Cooking, Daily Specials, extensive planning, and dedication of every staff member.” SouthWest Transit (SWT) provides express and local bus service to Buffet, Soup & Salad Bar, Full Menu, Carry-Out residents of the Minnesota communities of Eden Prairie, Chanhassen, Chaska, Carver, and surrounding areas. SWT operates seven (815) 562-5840 park and ride lots, including its main hub, SouthWest Station in Eden Prairie.‐ ‐ Visit www.swtransit.org for more information.

Seating for 40, Specialty Sandwiches, Stromboli, Fresh Salads & Pizza, Hand-Dipped Ice Cream! (815) 561-9595 Designated Bus Parking and Pull-Thru Fueling Island Bus Drivers & Tour Guides Eat free! Mini-Mall — 2 Stores with over 5,000 sq. ft. of shopping! ATM,Major Credit Cards accepted. I-39 & Hwy 38, Exit 99 Rochelle, IL OPEN 24 HOURS Please call ahead! See us at BusCon Booth #1128 September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 47 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:54 PM Page 48

American Seating’s Public Transit Seats lation. Integrating USB device chargers into our seating solutions Integrated With USB Power Outlets meets the needs of today’s tech- savvy riders,” said Doug Oswald, American Seating now offers USB ports on its Vision® seats. Vision director of marketing - transporta- serves the city service (public transit) market. tion at American Seating. “American Seating has unveiled the 4.2 amp total output, dual outlet, The Vision seats include Am - USB device charger on the Vision seat. The easily accessible charger fea- erican Seating’s VR-50® cush ion, tures an LED power-on indicator and an optional protective cover. People plush-padded cushion with back riding on buses now can use the buses as ‘mobile charging stations’ for extension and non-upholstered phones, tablets and hybrid laptop computers,” said American Seating. options. American Seating also “Public transportation vehicles are another place where people want to features its InSight® and its work on their computers, or read the news or watch videos on their smart Q’POD® product lines. phones and other devices. We are continually researching what designs The full InSight product offering includes the VR-50® cushion, plush- and products will serve the commuting workforce and the general popu- padded cushion with back extension and non-upholstered (INSIGHT- PRIME™ and INSIGHT-PRIME+™) versions. American Seating is celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2016. Visit www.americanseat- ing.com for more information.

AngelTrax Introduces The HDX Hybrid™ DVR: Conventional Transformed To Hybrid

AngelTrax, a mobile video surveillance provider, is introducing a mobile DVR, the HDX Hybrid™. “It’s a compact four channel mobile DVR that features AngelTrax’s patented Hybrid Com - ponent™ technology to create a durable and eco- nomical option for fleets of any size. With the flexibility of Hybrid Component Technology, upgrades and maintenance are easy and convenient,” said AngelTrax.

“At just over 2-inches tall, the HDX Hybrid can be installed in any vehicle, which makes it a good choice for smaller vehicles with limited space such as passenger vans or cargo trucks. The HDX Hybrid is built to withstand any environment and ships with 500GB of solid-state storage standard. The DVR’s dedicated hard drive bay makes removing and swapping solid- state drives quick and effortless.” AngelTrax President and CEO Richie Howard said, “With so many fleets utilizing smaller vehicles for different applications, we knew it was important to create a four channel DVR with the capabilities of the HDX Hybrid. We’ve brought our Hybrid Component Technology to a smaller package due to customer demand.”

Call 800-673-1788 or visit www.angeltrax.com for more information.

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From ARBOC: Recuperation will be lengthy, Spirit Of Mobility Bus No. 1 but full recovery is expected. Because of these injuries, Goes Back In Service Bennett needed a means to transport himself for several The first ARBOC Specialty Vehicles’ low-floor bus built in 2007 months to doctor’s appoint- has returned in service after five years of retirement. ments and to work as a vin- Nine years ago, ARBOC Specialty Vehicles (then known as tage race car engineer. ARBOC Mobility) built its first prototype bus to demonstrate its “Bartel contacted Don Rob - ADA compliant low floor technology for small shuttle buses. The pro- erts, president of ARBOC to totype was used for engineering development as well as sales and discuss the accident and marketing promotions inquire if the company had accumulating tens of any low floor product that thousands of miles in the could be used for a while. process. As production Roberts never hesitated a second. He said, ‘Let’s put Old No. 1 back geared up, Old No. 1, as in service.’” it became known, was After routine service, a new battery and tires, the bus was delivered phased out of use and to Craig and Leah Bennett, the patient’s wife. retired in 2011. For the “The bus is operating flawlessly, even after being idle for five past five years (until May, 2016), it was stored at the ARBOC manu- years. The ADA features introduced to the market in 2008 and includ- facturing facility in Middlebury, IN. ed in every ARBOC bus to date, have made daily travel comfortable According to an ARBOC release, “Craig Bennett, son-in-law of and efficient for Bennett. one of the ARBOC Specialty Vehicles founders, Jim Bartel, suffered “The function of this bus makes a statement about the reliability and an horrific accident while racing in Brazelton, GA, in April. Bennett durability of ARBOC products. Over 95 percent of all buses built since suffered a crushed L5 vertebrae as well as bone fractures in every the company shipped its first bus in 2008 remain in service. Some of appendage. He was sedated for 11 days, underwent 6 surgeries, which these buses have accumulated over 300,000 miles in service.” resulted in 58 screws and several plates being added to his anatomy. Visit www.ARBOCsv.com for more information.

See us at BusCon Booth #1314 September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 49 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:55 PM Page 50

APTA Announces 2016 Bus Safety & Security Excellence Awards Recognizing Bus Services With Top Safety And Security Programs In North America

The 2016 Bus Safety & Security Excellence Award winners are as WHERE THE BUS INDUSTRY he American Public Transportation Association (APTA) has announced the winners of its 2016 Bus Safety & Security follows: TExcellence Awards. The winning systems are chosen based on Systems with more than 4 million and fewer than 20 million bus four criteria: project effectiveness, benefits accrued directly from the passenger trips annually: GOLD Award for Safety – Kansas City Area positive impact of the program, innovativeness, and project transferabil- Transportation Authority, Kansas City, MO – Phased in a program to keep MEETS FOR BUSINESS ity that allows other systems to replicate the success. pedestrians and passengers safe. As a result of this program, the agency’s “The public transportation industry strives to make our services even bus crash rate dropped nearly 10 percent from the year before; GOLD more safe and secure,” APTA Chair Valarie J. McCall said. “I commend Award for Security – Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, Kansas BusCon the winners and participants for their tremendous contribution to the City, MO – Implemented a multi-pronged approach to strengthen security public transportation industry.” for its operators. It focused on a number of solutions including adding new SEPTEMBER 19-21, 2016 The APTA Bus Safety & Security Excellence Awards recognize pub- equipment, increasing police enforcement, offering enhanced training and lic transportation organizations for their innovative and proactive pro- lobbying for legislative solutions. INDIANA CONVENTION CENTER grams dedicated to improving safety and security for their employees, Systems with 20 million or more bus passenger trips annually: passengers, and the public. The top honor is the GOLD Award, which is GOLD Award for Safety – Maryland Transit Administration (MTA), INDIANAPOLIS given to agencies with the best overall bus safety or bus security pro- Baltimore, MD – Created the new Bus Operator Candidate Training gram selected by an independent panel of judges. A Certificate of Merit Program dedicated to improving safety while reducing accident claims and is given to public transit systems in recognition of exceptional achieve- costs; GOLD Award for Security – Maryland Transit Administration, ment in safety or security. Baltimore, MD – Instituted the “Police Technology Program: Reducing “In a time when public transit systems are challenged with limited Part I Crime.” This program led to a dramatic 49 percent decrease in Part local and federal investments, these systems are great examples of how I crime between 2007 and 2015 and no homicides, rapes or shootings on REGISTER our industry works to keep its riders and employees safe and secure,” MTA's systems in 2015. APTA Acting President & CEO Richard White said. “I congratulate Certificate Of Merit Winners Systems with fewer than 4 million passenger trips annually: NOW! them for their focus on making a safe industry even safer. These winners showcase a tremendous passion for safety and security on a daily Certificate of Merit for Safety – SouthWest Transit, Eden Prairie, MN – basis and I thank them for their dedication.” Instituted changes in safety culture that led to zero lost days as result of injury and a chargeable accident rate less than .63 per 100,000 miles driv- Continued On Page 52

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WHERE THE BUS INDUSTRY MEETS FOR BUSINESS BusCon SEPTEMBER 19-21, 2016 INDIANA CONVENTION CENTER INDIANAPOLIS REGISTER NOW!

Broughht tot yyouou bbyy BusConExpo.com • (800) 576-8788 For exhibiting inquiries, contact [email protected] or call (310) 533-2449.

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APTA: Continued From Page 50

en. Additionally this led to an on-time performance rate of 99 percent; Certificate of Merit for Security – SouthWest Transit, Eden Prairie, MN – Modified APTA, DHS, FTA and NTI documents to specifically tailor them to their operation to create a plan that is useful for day-to-day activities without outside funding. Systems with more than 4 million and fewer than 20 million passenger trips annually: Certificate of Merit for Safety – Fort Worth Transit Authority (The T), Fort Worth, TX – Collected information about the causes of incidents/accidents using historical data to trend specific issues and drill down for key areas of improvement; Certificate of Merit for Security – Fort Worth Transit Authority, Fort Worth, TX – Strengthened its relationship with local first responders and created a “crisis” template that agencies can use to decide how to best utilize the system during critical events or in time of crisis. This included crisis situations both involving The T and utilizing The T to help resolve situations. Systems with more than 20 million passenger trips annually: Certificate of Merit for Safety – Metropolitan Transportation Authority/New York City Transit, New York, NY – Implemented the “EAGLE Team Fare Evasion Unit,” which ensures passenger compliance with paying fares and educating on use of fare machines. The unit's presence for fare enforcement has also decreased harassment of passengers and minimized operator assaults; Certificate of Merit for Security – Pace Suburban Bus, Arlington Heights, IL – Expanded training programs for local fire and police departments on the workings of its buses and operations at no cost to the first responders; Certificate of Merit for Security – MV Transportation DBA Fairfax Connector, Fairfax, VA – With many advancements in technology MV implemented a number of innovative tools including wireless data communications, computer-aided dispatch, on-board surveillance and automated vehicle announcements.

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See us at BusCon Booth #417 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:55 PM Page 54

Motor Coach Industries Motor Coach Industries

® MCI® J4500 MCI Commuter Coach

The MCI J4500, the private sector’s best seller for 11 years, con- Designed for commuter express and built for highway speed, tinues to win fans for its good looks, premium workhorse reliabil- the MCI Commuter Coach, available in 40- and 45-foot clean ity, low total cost of operation, and significant fuel economy diesel, hybrid or CNG configurations, offers low cost of ownership, gains. A new independent front suspension and braking system and an excellent MDBF rate, measured as the No. 1 performer with offers car-like control and excellent stopping distances, along the fewest failures per vehicle among all bus types. MCI also with optional collision-avoidance systems. New features in com- offers the market’s most extensive aftermarket parts and repair fort include an REI A/V system, more fabric choices, and optional service for all makes and models; including quick response to stylish Kiel seats for additional hip and knee room and a more transit parts procurements, technician training, and 24-hour tech- modern profile. nical support. Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: [email protected]; Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: [email protected]; Website: www.mcicoach.com Website: www.mcicoach.com

Model...... MCI® Commuter Coach Passenger Capacity...... 57, 49 Model...... MCI® J4500 Length...... 45’, 40’ Passenger Capacity ...... 56 Height...... 137” Length...... 45.58’ Wheelbase...... 318”, 279” Height...... 140.75” Headroom ...... 78.25” Headroom...... 78.25” Turning Radius ...... 47’, 44.70’ Wheelbase ...... 315” Interior Height...... 78.25” Engine ...... Cummins ISX 12L, 425 hp engine w/engine brake; Fuel Tank Capacity...... 164 gal. CNG, optional Detroit Diesel 114.6 Diesel Gallon Equivalent (DGE) Transmission...... Allison B500 6-speed automatic transmission Chassis ...... Monocoque with prognostics capability with fuel saving Fuel Options...... Clean-diesel, hybrid, CNG RELS-Reduced Engine Load at Stop Transmission Options...... Allison B500, Brakes...... Bendix® ADB22X™ Air Disc Brakes Allison EP 50 Hybrid drive Fuel Tank Capacity...... 183 gal. Engine Options...... Cummins ISL, ISX or ISL G Fuel Options ...... Clean Diesel Brakes...... Air, Meritor all-wheel EX-225 disc DEF Tank Capacity...... Cummins/Detroit Diesel 15 gal/10 gal with unitized hubs and preset GVWR...... 54,000 lbs. GVWR...... 50,000 lbs., 46,000 lbs.

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Nova Bus Alexander Dennis

LFS HEV® (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) Based on the proven performance of the LFS platform, the LFS HEV® (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) upgrades its already advanced fuel-efficient engi- Enviro500 SuperLo neering by adding a powerful, ultra-low emissions hybrid drive to cut fuel At only 12’9” in height, the Enviro500 SuperLo can transport and maintenance costs. the maximum number of passengers seated in comfort and safe- Given optimal operating conditions, the LFS HEV offers up to 30 percent ty, without compromising internal space and occupying a com- reduction in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional diesel-powered buses. Other benefits include a significant pact footprint on the road. This low profile, high performance reduction in noise levels, particularly at the rear of the vehicle and outside. double deck bus is the ideal solution for commuter and interur- Nova Bus offers two different types of hybrid systems: parallel and series. ban routes. In both parallel and series vehicles, braking energy normally lost as heat is Featuring a spacious 212 cubic foot luggage compartment, recuperated through a generator and stored in the rooftop batteries. That’s the Enviro500 SuperLo is available in various interior configura- why hybrid technologies are best suited for frequent stop-and-go conditions. tions to enhance the on-board experience, ranging from luxuri- Also available, the high-capacity LFS Artic HEV is an attractive alternative ous reclining seats, flip-down tables, individual reading lights, for growing cities focused on sustainable development. Starts and stops are USB chargers and WiFi. The vehicle also allows low floor wheel- smooth and the ride is stable, even in snowy conditions; the end result is a chair loading, which eliminates the need for platform style more enjoyable passenger experience. wheelchair lifts — with no loss of seating. Developing vehicles to help cities meet sustainability objectives is part of Nova Bus’ vision to be the leader in green efficiency and Electro Mobility. Alexander Dennis Inc Nova Bus; 260 Banker Road, Plattsburgh, NY 12901 31566 Railroad Canyon Road #342 800-350-6682 • Email: [email protected]. Canyon Lake, CA 92587-9446 USA Website: www.novabus.com. Tel: 951-244-9429 Fax: 951-755-0318 Website: www.alexander-dennis.com Model ...... LFS HEV Seating Capacity...... up to 41 Length...... 40’ Width ...... 102” Model...... Enviro500 SuperLo Height...... 132” Seating Capacity...... 81 Engine ...... Cummins ISB 6.7 280 HP, Cummins ISL 8.9 330 HP Length...... 45’4” / 13.8m Traction Drive...... Allison H 40 EP, BAE HDS200 Width...... 8’5” / 2.58m Chassis...... Stainless Steel Integral Height...... 12’9” / 3.91m Fuel ...... Diesel-electric Hybrid Engine...... Cummins ISL9 8.9L Air Conditioning...... Thermo King Athenia, MCC Type of Fuel ...... Diesel Wheelchair Lift Option...... Lift-U, Fedico Chassis...... ADI Enviro500 SuperLo 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

September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 55 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:55 PM Page 56

ABC Companies Sells Ameritrans Assets

Prevost ABC Companies has announced the recent sale of assets of Ameritrans Bus, in Elkhart, IN. “In an overall business review, it was determined this division no longer fits in our overall growth strategy. ABC will continue to provide parts and warranty support for Ameritrans products,” according to a ABC press release. “The sale of Ameritrans is an important strategic step,” said Jon Savitz, senior vice president, business development for ABC Companies. “In line with our strategy planning, ABC will continue to concentrate on our core business offering, in particular the service and parts businesses which are essential Prevost X3-45 Commuter Coach to supporting our customers’ operations.” ABC Companies provides the transportation industry with The iconic Prevost X3-45® sets a higher standard for a unique and products and services including new and pre-owned highway upscale intercity commuter coach. The X3-45 Commuter™ provides a coach equipment and specialty vehicles. It offers after sale smooth, quiet ride for a relaxing commuting environment. Designed to service and repairs, collision services, OEM and aftermarket provide quality, performance, and safety. Buy America compliant, Exova certified for structural integrity and parts for transit, motorcoach and heavy-duty equipment from Altoona tested for superior product value and lifecycle efficiency, the X3-45 nine locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. Commuter coach offers proven performance for the nation’s most demand- ing commuter routes. Developed with a focus on transit operation concerns For more information, such as passenger safety, accessibility, low operation costs and ease of Call 800-222-2875 or visit www.abc-companies.com. maintenance, the vehicle offers the lowest overall height in the premium intercity coach market; while maintaining a best-in-class floor-to-ceiling height of 80 inches. A rider’s commute is remarkably smooth and comfortable thanks to the longest wheelbase in the industry, while accessibility is enhanced by the revolutionary Swap & Plug Wheelchair Lift system, front kneeling suspension, and bi-fold doors that open to a short stairway in the expansive entrance. The Prevost X3-45 Commuter includes three-point seat belts on a 20G rated welded rail system for an exceptionally secure passenger environment. Additionally, 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 and in touch while commuting.

Prevost: 7900 National Service Rd., Greensboro, NC 27409 Tel: 877-773-8678 Email: [email protected] Website: www.prevostcar.com Model...... Prevost X3-45 Commuter Coach Seating Capacity ...... 57 Length ...... 45’ Width...... 102” Height...... 134” Wheelbase...... 334.5” Overhang (front/rear) ...... 72.30”; 86.60” Inside Height (min./max.)...... Floor to ceiling - 80” Turning Radius...... 45.6’ Tire Size...... 315/80 R22.5 Engine ...... EPA Compliant Volvo D13 w/DPF and SCR, 445 HP, 13L Transmission...... Allison World, 5th gen., 6-speed auto. trans. Brakes...... All-Wheel disc. w/ABS Fuel Tank Capacity...... 183 U.S. gal. Air Conditioning...... Bitzer 4FNCY Baggage Capacity...... 513 cu. ft. Wheelchair Lift Option...... Interchangeable swap & plug Steering...... Steering wheel w/integrated controls, tilt & telescopic, and integral power steering, (variable assistance power steering available) Suspension...... Wide-stance tuned suspension w/liftable tag axle See us at BusCon Booth #535 Page 56 BUSLINE September/October 2016 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:55 PM Page 57

Avail Tech, Inc. Electronic Data Magnetics, Inc. 1960 Old Gatesburg Rd., Suite 200 210 Old Thomasville Rd. State College, PA 16803 USA High Point, NC 27260 USA Phone: 814-234-3394 Phone: 800-336-8115 Website: www.availtec.com E-Mail: [email protected] Products: A fully integrated suite of products, designed to meet the specif- Website: www.electronicdata.com ic needs of small- to medium-sized transit properties. Avail’s offerings Products: RFID and Magnetic Striped products on thin gauge paper and include automatic passenger counters and fare collection products. 14 plastics. EDM provides both high and low coercivity magnetic stripe cards and tickets, while offering encoding services. 14 Brush Industries 301 Reagan St. Sunbury, PA 17801 USA Phone: 570-286-5611 Website: www.brushindustries.com Products: Long life magnetic recording heads and card readers for the smart card and magnetic stripe card industries. 14

Cubic Transportation Systems 5650 Kearny Mesa Rd. San Diego, CA 92111 USA Phone: 858-627-4587 THE DIAMOND FAMILY Website: www.cts.cubic.com. Products: An integrator of payment and information technology and services for intelligent travel solutions. Turnkey solutions support all public transport modes including bus and bus rapid transit. Every year, nearly 7 billion rides are taken worldwide using Cubic fare collection systems. 14

Diamond Manufacturing Inc. See Ad At Right 2330 Burlington Ave. N. Kansas City, MO 64116 USA Toll Free: 800-343-1009 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.diamondmfg.com Company Officers: Todd and Pam Cull Products: Diamond Manufacturing offers a line of fare collection equipment to the transit industry. It supplies traditional, manual fare boxes, donation boxes and a fare box with a remote fare dump option. Diamond’s traditional fare boxes are the round units (Models H, E-5, D), which are designed to accept coins, tokens and tickets; and, rectangular units (Models RV, SV, XV, NV), which are designed to accept dollar bills, coins, tokens, tickets, passes and similar fare Serving The Industry Since 1947 media. Donation boxes come in three sizes to fit most applications. These units Made in the U.S.A. can be mounted in a variety of ways: on the modesty panel or stanchion pole in diamondmfg.com either a vertical or horizontal position. Models F-1 and F-24 remote dump fare boxes can be mounted away from the driver with a push button dump feature. 800-343-1009 816-421-8363 These models can be paired with smart card readers. 16 See us at BusCon Booth #430 September/October 2016 BUSLINE Page 57 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:55 PM Page 58

Evolis Card Printers TransitFare & Systems 3201 W. Commercial Blvd., Suite 110 125 Don Hillock Drive, Unit 2 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 USA Aurora, ON L4G 0H8 CANADA Phone: 954-777-9262 Website: www.evolis.com Phone: 416-993-2503 Products: Fare products for public transportation companies and agencies E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.transitfare.com to better control their revenues. Products help optimize efficiency. 14 Products: A developer of integrated fare management solutions for small to medium sized transit operators. The company’s solutions integrate fare INIT, Innovations In Transportation, Inc. management, ticket issuing and validation, revenue management, and 1420 Kristina Way, Suite 101 financial and ridership reporting. The TFS1200B is the company’s latest Chesapeake, VA 23320 USA onboard ticket issuing device. It is a key component of an integrated fare Phone: 757-413-9100 Website: www.initusa.com management solution. TransitFare & Systems officials work with public Products: MOBILEticket is a smart phone application that helps transit and private transit operators in the North American, South American, authorities connect with their riders, reduce operating costs, and move into African, Asian and European markets. 14 the future of open payment systems. With MOBILEticket, riders can buy and use their public transit passes from their mobile phones. 14 Xerox 7160 Riverwood Dr. LECIP Inc. Columbia, MD 21046 USA 1011 East Touhy Ave., Suite 140 Phone: 443-259-7196 Website: www.xerox.com/transportation Des Plaines, IL 60018 USA Products: An integrator of computer-aided dispatch/automatic vehicle Phone: 312-626-2528 Website: www.lecip.com location systems (CAD/AVL), Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), Products: Automated fare collection systems including fareboxes, smart card and fare collection solutions for public transportation services, public works systems, transfer voucher issuance machines and digital fare displays. 14 and school bus fleets. 14

MJM Innovations 6300 Blair Hill Ln. Six Irizar Buses Inaugurate Baltimore, MD 21108 USA Phone: 410-664-0700 E-Mail: [email protected] France’s First 100 Percent Electric Line Website: www.mjminnovations.com Company Officers: Jeffrey Venick, CEO; Michael Stappler, CFO On June 6, the Régie des Transports de Marseille (RTM) inaugurated Products: Established in 1998 to provide technology solutions and manage- the first 100 percent electric line in the city of Marseilles, France. In addi- ment services to transit and senior agencies. The company’s solutions improve tion to personnel representing bus manufacturer Irizar, the event was data management and customer service by providing an efficient, less expen- attended by the mayor of Marseilles, Jean-Claude Gaudin; the president sive and more secure system. The EzTransport® Transportation Management of the RTM Administrative Council, Maxime Tommasini; and the Solution is used to track fares and trips, and for routing and scheduling of Director of RTM, Pierre Reboud. transportation programs. It has been used to manage millions of trips in paratransit and senior transportation since 2001. It is available with smart card, swipe card or cardless model, and includes web-based software and web por- tals, cards and hardware. MJM Innovations’ goal is to develop and implement technology that integrates software, hardware and management services. The company works with agencies to adapt EzTransport to meet their needs. 16

MEI, Inc. 3222 Phoenixville Pike, Suite 200 Malvern, PA 19355 USA Phone: 610-203-6587 Website: www.meigroup.com Products: MEI is a manufacturer of electronic note acceptors, coin mecha- Six Irizar i2e buses began serving Marseille’s 82 line, which runs nisms and other unattended transaction systems. Today, MEI electronic pay- between la Canebière and Euromed, stopping at the headquarters of MPM ment systems are relied upon for over 2 billion transactions per week in and the Métropole, the Old Port, MuCEM and the new business district more than 100 countries. 14 of Euroméditerranée. Irizar has also installed an intelligent system in depots, for optimization Scheidt & Bachmann USA, Inc. of the process of charging the six buses. 31 North Ave. “Developed and manufactured with the group’s own European tech- Burlington, MA 01803 USA nology and a life-cycle approach, the Irizar i2e is the result of the Phone: 781-262-6655 Website: www.scheidt-bachmann.de Group’s strategic commitment to innovation, with the aim of becoming Products: The company’s fare collection systems division is a global sup- a benchmark in sustainable urban mobility. The 100 percent electric plier in fare collection technology. It has been providing local and regional vehicle from Irizar Group guarantees an operating range between 12 and transit solutions since 1978. All products and services appear under the 16 hours (up to 240 km) and has been designed to achieve energy effi- brand FareGo. 14 ciency, the lowest consumption and an optimum end of life manage- SPX Genfare ment,” according to Irizar. 800 Arthur Ave. Hector Olabe, director of Irizar e-mobility said, “We have worked Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 USA together to manufacture a bus that meets all the requirements and needs of Phone: 847-593-8855 Website: www.genfare.com the citizens and the orography of Marseilles, and also to provide RTM with Products: SPX Genfare provides customized fare solutions to transit agencies charging stations and an intelligent system to efficiently manage all the of all sizes throughout North America. Genfare integrated systems encompass charge conditions/restrictions inside the depot. This system identifies the the latest in electronic validating fareboxes, smart card and mobile payment different charging needs of each bus and optimizes the total required power, options, ticket vending and point of sale card distribution systems. These are which makes the electric conversion of the bus fleets completely viable.” all managed by sophisticated local and web-based data processing systems. 15 Visit www.irizar.com/usa for more information.

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See us at BusCon Booth #201 0916Busline.FINAL_Layout 1 8/22/16 1:55 PM Page 60

OUR REPUTATION FOR SERVICE IS FUELED BY EXPERIENCE.

Every Prevost coach is backed by a highly skilled service team that’s committed to keeping you productive and proﬁtable. From our 24-hour emergency assistance to our coast-to-coast network of certiﬁed providers, we’re here with uptime support that’s unmatched in the industry.

www.prevostcar.com

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