LADOT has ordered 84 new MCI Commuter Coaches powered by compressed natural gas (CNG). Intended to serve the agency's Commuter Express routes, the 40-foot CNG coaches represent LADOT's first-ever order from MCI. Based on the MCI D-Series, the CNG MCI Commuter Coach offers super-low emissions that meet California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards along with a touring-class ride that is considerably more comfortable than the average transit bus.
Powered by a Cummins ISL G 8.9-liter, 320-hp engine, each 49-seat coach features a wheelchair lift as well as standard features including individual reading lights and airflow controls; safety features including electronic stability control and a tire-pressure monitoring system; and performance features that make the coach attractive to drivers and maintenance crews.
"These buses are green not just because their emissions are so low, but also because we think they're appealing enough to persuade more passengers to leave their cars behind," said LADOT General Manager Jaime de la Vega. "These buses are part of our commitment to making Los Angeles the greenest big city in America."
"We've been committed to green power since we delivered our first CNG coaches to New Jersey Transit in the 1990s," said Tom Wagner, director of business development for MCI's Public Sector. "This new generation of CNG coaches is a valuable addition to our model lineup, which also includes hybrids and clean-diesel. We're proud to see them serve the LADOT fleet."
To learn more, visit MCI at Booth 1333.