SCHAUMBURG, IL — March 31, 2010 — As part of Greyhound Lines' bid to modernize its fleet, it has awarded Motor Coach Industries (MCI) a contract for 70 luxuriously appointed MCI D4505 coaches. Delivery of the coaches will start in June 2010, and Greyhound has an option for 30 additional coaches.
"It's gratifying that Greyhound has once again turned to MCI for its equipment needs," said Tom Sorrells, president and CEO of MCI. "With the current state of the economy and a growing movement toward more ecologically friendly travel, we're very pleased to be able to offer Greyhound the reliability, value and amenities so important in today's competitive marketplace. This order will also allow us to expand our production workforce by about 100 in our Winnipeg, Canada, and Pembina, North Dakota plants."
Greyhound's new D4505 coaches will be wired for Wi-Fi and equipped with passenger power outlets and three-point seatbelts. Additionally, each new coach will feature a wheelchair lift and plush leatherette passenger seating for 50, compared to the typical 55-seat configuration for the D4505 model. This move will give riders significantly more legroom. Greyhound has also opted for MCI's optional air-ride driver's seat, opened up the driver's area for additional comfort, and added additional security features including an aisle gate and driver's shield. The coaches are wired for up to six onboard surveillance cameras. The new MCI D4505s are also powered by clean- diesel engine technology, specifically the Detroit Diesel Series 60 engine paired with an Allison B500 transmission.
"Today's motor coach experience can make passengers more comfortable and productive," said Michael Melaniphy, vice president of MCI's Public Sector. "A typical motor coach replaces more than 50 cars on the road, and with the addition of high-tech interior features, we're changing a lot of commuting and travel habits."
A 2009 DePaul University study found that motor coach travel has grown much faster than other modes of public and commercial transportation due to coach companies making aggressive investments in passenger technology like WiFi access and power outlets throughout the coach that allow their customers to work and play online. "Greyhound is a legendary travel brand in the U.S. and Canada," said Sorrells. "As the leading builder of coaches, we look forward to expanding this important business relationship by offering the products and customer support services that allow for a safe, secure and all-around superb travel experience."
Last year, Greyhound entered into a new replacement parts contract with MCI Service Parts, and is currently developing contracts to acquire additional MCI coaches with Section 5311(f) federal funding offered by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). MCI's relationship with Greyhound Lines spans six decades. Nearly 90 percent of the vehicles in Greyhound's fleet are MCI coaches.
"We are pleased to continue our long and well-established relationship with MCI," said Dave Leach, president and CEO of Greyhound. "During this partnership, MCI has delivered a reliable service to us ensuring our success as the largest provider of intercity bus transportation in North America. We are pleased to be able to work together to enhance our customers' travel experience."
(Source: MCI)
