Welcome to Metro Magazine's Annual Bus Showcase

METRO Magazine's Annual Bus Showcase is a comprehensive buyer's guide for operations looking to purchase new vehicles. Get info for more than 40 vehicle models ranging from chassis, cutaways, mid-size models to 45 footers. This e-listing includes vehicle photos, descriptions and specifications, as well as direct links to manufacturer websites.

Instructions: Select the bus you would like to review from the images above. You can slide through more busses by pressing on the right or left caret.

ABC Companies

Exclusively manufactured for ABC Companies by General Coach of America, the M1235 mid-size coach offers operators high-end, big coach characteristics in a smaller group transport vehicle. It features an exclusive one-piece windshield enhancing driver visibility and maximizing passenger viewing. Plus, an optimized rear suspen-sion package ensures the smoothest ride in its class, and an optional Ricon In-Step Lift for ADA accessibility. Perfect for a myriad of applications, the versatile M1235 can be designed to fit all charter, commuter, shuttle and transit requirements.

Alexander Dennis Inc.

The new Lo Height Enviro 500 Deck from Alexander Dennis Inc. (ADI) offers a unique combination of high capacity, outstanding maneuverability and superb passenger comfort. Still with more than 80 seats and capable of carrying almost 100 passengers, it brings another dimension to public transport and builds on the reputation that has made it a winner in New York, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Seattle, Vancouver, Ottawa and Toronto. The new reduced height models ush-ers in a stylish new look for the ADI Double Deck Range whether it is for transit or interurban operations.

Ameritrans

Transport up to 31 passengers in spa-cious style aboard an Ameritrans F-series coach. Built on the reliable Ford F-550 chassis, our F-series models offer a roomy 102-inch interior cabin, flat floor design for flexible ADA access location and maximum legroom. Plus, standard thermopane windows and front cab touring window enhance passenger views and stabilize climate control. Look to Ameritrans for a wide range of custom-built floor plans to fit your needs for church, school, and tour and charter operations.

Arboc Specialty Vehicles

The ARBOC SV Spirit of Liberty is a low-floor, medium duty 29- to 33-foot rear engine bus, available in 2014. The Spirit of Liberty features an open floor plan with no steps throughout the passenger area. Standard wheelchair zones are a spacious 54 inches x 30 inches minimum. Passengers enter on a 34-inch wide, 1:5 ramp by Braun or Ricon to a 40 inch pass-through between front wheelhouses. The Liberty incorporates lightweight technologies and proven ARBOC SV construction resulting in “best of class” curb weights of 16,500 lbs. or less, with a GVWR of 25,900 lbs. It also has the capacity to carry up to 37 passengers plus 15 standees. Power is supplied by a 6.7 liter Cummins ISB diesel engine coupled to an Allison B220 six-speed transmission on a proprietary chassis supplied by Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp.

BYD

The BYD electric bus is the world’s first mass-produced pure-electric bus. It is also the only electric bus powered by environmentally-friendly, iron-phosphate batteries. This allows the electric bus to travel an unprecedented 150-plus miles, which meets roughly 80% of large city transit average daily service routes. The electric bus uses regenerative braking, which charges the batteries each time the brakes are engaged, especially useful with fre-quently stopping buses in city transportation services. It can be charged using BYD’s AC charging adapter (input 480VAC, three phase). Full charge can be achieved in less than five hours. The BYD 40-foot electric bus’s energy consumption amounts to 1.92 kWh/mile, during a Hertz demo, it’s testified that the operation cost of BYD’s 40-foot electric bus was only $0.21/mile. The bus can be purchased as “Buy America-Compliant” from the BYD Lan-caster, Calif. factory.

Champion Bus Inc.

The newest addition to the Champion Bus family is the LF Transport Low Floor. The LF Transport utilizes its up to 27,000 lbs. GVWR chassis — Ford, GM, International and Freightliner — to the best of its ability. It offers passengers no-step entry with an ADA ramp, wheelchair accessibility and random access for the easiest of entries, with capacity up to eight wheelchair positions and 39 seated ambulatory passengers. The smooth ride is executed perfectly due to the IntelliSYNC air-ride front and rear suspension system with kneel features for ground or curb-to-curb passenger pickup, with ramp angles exceeding today’s ADA requirements. All chassis platforms utilize its OEM chassis warranties along with a single source warranty for the entire low-floor conversion. This low floor model is sure to meet your customers’ needs with its accessibility, ease, comfort, safety and durability with our unitized “220 rollover protection” exclusive steel cage construction.

Dallas Smith

For more than 60 years, Dallas Smith Corp. (DSC) has been providing the transportation industry with safer, smarter, and easier ways for vehicles to move people and products. DSC is a complete design, engineering and manufacturing company focusing entirely on low -floor vehicle chassis for commercial vehicle applications. Whether you want to transport people or products in the most efficient and economical way, DSC can provide low-floor chassis technologies to meet your specific needs.

ElDorado National

Aerotech is a steel-reinforced composite bus that is highly resistant to impact, rust and corrosion. The gel-coated exterior keeps its glossy finish for the life of the vehicle. Aerotech has been tested for seven years/200,000 miles at the FTA testing facility and is also the only vehicle in its class crash tested in an automotive testing facility, according to the company. Unlike other buses, ElDorado’s door frames, wheelchair lift frames and step wells are made with stainless steel to ensure these critical, exposed areas will last.

ElDorado National

The E-Z Rider II is a low-floor transit bus that offers exceptional passenger accessibility. This rear-engine model is built utilizing space-frame/monocoque construction. Passenger seating is available on the front wheel wells, which allows for the same seating capacity as a conventional floor bus. ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps are available at the front and/or rear-entry doors for design flexibility. The E-Z Rider II, designed and built 100% in the U.S., completed the 12-year/ 500,000-mile test at Altoona.

Federal Coach

Federal Coach prides itself on being adaptable to any challenge, and the Premier is no exception. It is available with a Freightliner or International chassis. Like other models, the Premier can be a full-size 40-ft. all people shuttle bus, or with the limo conversion, can be a “nightclub” on wheels fit for any occasion. The other option for the Premier is to conform to a limo/exec model. This will make the most of your investment with Federal Coach. By day, this can be a corporate vehicle. By night, it can be utilized for weddings, parties and special occasions. The Premier is available with options, such as ADA lifts, overhead luggage racks, rear luggage compartments, window shades and valances, premium seats, and exterior paint and graphics.

Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp.

If additional power and no engine cover to step over is your goal, then look no further than the MB65. You can choose from several horsepower ratings, with up to 260 hp and 660 lb.-ft. torque. This chassis delivers a multitude of options, including a variety of transmission options, as well as multiple suspension ratings. The durable, heavy-duty steel frame rails are available with wheelbases ranging up to 276 in. and designed to reduce flex, road vibration and bowing for a coach that delivers a comfortable, quiet ride today and for years to come.

General Coach America Inc.

The American Crusader maneuvers like a van but has the stability of a dual rear wheel bus. With its low profile and narrow body, it is able to access places that standard size buses are not able to. Our exclusive “Steelguard Gator Shield” construction with 1.5-inch x 1.5-inch steel cage offers superior durability and safety. The distinctively styled fiberglass front and rear caps, molded fiberglass skirts and wheel flares, and Clear view solid windows provide a streamlined modern appearance. It is available on GM or Ford chassis, or with gas, diesel or alternative fuel engines. It is a great bus for your shuttling needs and able to be equipped with a lift to meet ADA requirements.

GILLIG

Gillig was the first transit bus manufacturer to integrate parallel hybrid-electric technology into transit buses. Now, that technology is providing fuel and emission benefits to many communities across the U.S. Other Gillig advantages include a state-of-the-art multiplex system, stainless steel chassis and an aluminum body. In addition, the buses include many unique safety, comfort and convenience features.

Glaval Bus

The Titan II LF completely eliminates the need for steps to enter or exit the vehicle, or a traditional wheelchair lift. It’s offered with either a Braun or Ricon bi-fold power ramp. One of the most impressive features of the Titan II LF is the four-corner, self-leveling air-ride suspension with kneeling capability. The complete unit will kneel to achieve up to 1:6 ramp slope on gas models with the touch of one button. The Titan II LF offers true random accesses for up to five wheelchair positions.

General Motors - Fleet & Commercial

GM produces cutaways with GVWRs from 9,900 lbs. to 14,200 lbs., available with gas, diesel or liquefied petroleum gasoline (LPG) engines; ABS brakes and air-conditioning. The chassis come in two wheelbases with single or dual rear wheels. A six-speed, automatic and heavy-duty electronically controlled transmission is standard. The transmission offers adaptive shift controls, grade braking, and a wide gear ratio spread that maximizes both acceleration and fuel economy. Both the fifth and sixth gears are “overdrive” gears. The 14,200-lb. GVWR cutaway de-livers many medium-duty benefits in a light, efficient package and features an improved body structure to meet heavy-duty commercial duty cycles, with a 10% increase in metal gauge thickness and added spot welds and structural adhesive on select components.

Goshen Coach Inc., Thor Industries Bus Division

Introducing the new Impulse from Goshen Coach. The Impulse was designed with style and a spacious interior, all while providing weight savings. Features of the vehicle include flat exterior side walls, newly designed front cap with recessed LED clearance and marker lights, newly styled rear wall and stylish one-piece coving with integrated dome lights. The Impulse can accommodate 28 passengers or 25 passengers and dedicated rear luggage. With a spacious interior of 91 inches, your passengers are sure to ride in comfort.

Krystal by ElDorado National

Built on the Ford F-550 Super Duty cab and chassis, Krystal’s F-550 Shuttles have been on the market 10 years longer than any other manufacturer. As the original producer of F-550 shuttle buses, Krystal maintains the highest number on the road. The resale value of this coveted model has exceeded the expectations of countless owners, earning as high as 50% of purchase price after five years.

Krystal by ElDorado National

Built on the heavy duty Ford F-650 cab and chassis, Krystal’s F-650 Shuttles are a lower cost, mid-size alternative, offering the same luxurious styling as the popular IC Touring Coach, including standard frameless, coach-style windows and an over driver front view window.

Micro Bird Inc.

Micro Bird Inc., a joint venture com-pany between Blue Bird and Girardin, designs and manufactures a complete line of shuttle and transit buses for up to 25 passengers. Flexible floor plans allow for a multitude of configurations, including special needs passengers, while standard features and options include lap and shoulder belt seating and more. Propane-powered Micro Bird is available as an affordable green solution.

Motor Coach Industries

With its enhanced reliability, low cost performance and exceptional fuel econo-my, the new MCI J4500 delivers on its rank as the industry’s best-selling model. Redesigned with heightened curb appeal and a more elevated presence along with bright, durable LED headlamps and a smooth rear cap for more branding space, the model complements existing J4500 fleets. Dynamic safety systems include electronic stability control; SmartWave tire-pressure monitoring; and fire detection and suppression as well as three-point passenger seatbelts. Just as importantly, the J4500 coach comes with new EPA-mandated clean-diesel engine technology and powertrain enhancements for double-digit fuel gains in some applications, along with the longest warranty in the industry.

Motor Coach Industries

Stylish, comfortable and reliable, the 40- and 45-foot MCI D-Series coaches prove themselves over and over again. Built using MCI’s legendary stainless steel construction, the D-Series tour and charter coaches are designed to deliver a unique combination of practicality and passenger amenities with a powertrain that both meets the latest EPA standards and delivers increased fuel efficiency. Easy maintenance is achieved through a new ACTIA multiplexing system. Standard safety features are robust, with an emphasis on electronic stability control, ATC, integrated tire-pressure monitoring with always-on sensors, updated fire-suppression system, disc brakes with six-channel ABS and three-point passenger seatbelts. Other optional features include a steerable tag axle to make the D4505 extra-nimble and an auxiliary heater for more efficient cold-weather startups.

Motor Coach Industries

Built for highway speeds, the MCI Commuter Coach, which is Buy America-compliant and available in clean-diesel, hybrid and CNG options, has earned its position as the North American leader in longer-distance express service for public transit systems. Strong and durable, with a rugged semi-monocoque structure that elevates passengers and drivers above traffic, plus Electronic Stability Control (ESC), tire pressure monitoring and a fire suppression system that make express routes, bus rapid transit and bus-on-shoulder service safer. The MCI Commuter Coach offers a highly competitive per-seat price, plus low cost of operation and the best MDBF rate over all other types of bus models.

Motor Coach Industries

The Setra S 407 Comfort Class delivers quality German engineering and Euro-pean styling. The model, powered by a Mercedes-Benz BlueTec engine that meets EPA emission standards, combines functionality with the ability to meet the grueling work demands of tour, charter and heavy-duty transportation appliances. Product safety is evident in every detail, with as many as 16 integrated passive and active safety systems onboard. These include the Electronic Stability Program, all-wheel disc brakes, ABA braking with anti-slip control and Allison retarder as standard features.

Motor Coach Industries

Exemplifying exclusive European styling and custom luxury, the Setra S 417 Top Class offers more choices, with 2-1, reversible, executive or lounge seating; premium fabrics and galleys. Comfort and ambience delight passengers, and the optional TopSky and rear window offer the best views anywhere. A true driver’s vehicle, the S 417 rolls with a tuned and tested IFS suspension system for a smooth, quiet ride. The front collision guard, cornering lights and rain/light sensors are just a few of the features contributing to the model’s safety standards. Vehicle monitoring capabilities, with integrated tire monitoring systems and an onboard diagnostics system, ensure that drivers and maintenance professionals are ideally equipped to increase uptime.

New Flyer

The New Flyer MiDi is a medium-sized, low floor bus available in 30- and 35-foot lengths. It is ideal for medium-duty transit, community shuttle services and for connecting passengers to high frequency transit routes. The streamlined design of the MiDi offers passengers excellent accessibility with one or two doors, a 1:6 slope wheelchair ramp and greater maneuverability. Its purpose-built, weight-optimized steel chassis and aluminum body structure provides durability and a lighter, more fuel efficient bus.

Nova Bus

Nova Bus is driven by your city and strives to design smart buses that meet your needs. Its value-added offer includes an extensive list of smart features engineered to provide the best in terms of safety, accessibility and lifecycle cost. From standard 40-foot buses to high-capacity articulated bus rapid transit vehicles and clean diesel to hybrid-electric and natural gas drives, its smart buses have the capacity to respond to service demand at any time.

Prevost

The X3-45 carries on the Prevost tradition of innovation, showcasing advanced technologies that lead the industry. Prevost’s newest innovation is PRIME (Power Recovery by Intelligent Management of Energy), an energy management system that reduces fuel consumption by using the engine downtime (braking, deceleration and other negative torque situations) to charge the batteries and compress air. The Volvo D13 engine has superior low-end performance; smooth, quiet opera-tion; and drastically lowers emission of air pollutants. The Prevost Welded Rail System, Prevost Electronic Stability Program and Prevost AWARE Adaptive Cruise Braking system take safety to a new level. The X3-45 has the longest wheelbase in the touring coach market (334.5 in.), giving passengers a smooth ride and features the largest under-floor surface area (139 sq. ft.) in the industry. At 134 inches, the Prevost X3-45 has the lowest overall height of all seated coaches, providing easy access to virtually any pick-up or drop-off site. Equipped with the Prevost Advanced Multiplex System, the vehicle delivers dependability and maximizes operational efficiency. The user-friendly system features a multitude of benefits, including easier maintenance, faster troubleshooting, and quick and accurate diagnosis of prob-lems with vital components.

Proterra

Proterra's EcoRide is a full-size 35-foot fast-charge battery-electric bus capable of charging in under 10 minutes. Leveraging advanced lithium-titanate battery technology, it achieves over 21 miles miles per gallon equivalent and is up to 600% more efficient than a typical diesel or compressed natural gas bus. This results in operating-cost savings as well as reduced carbon emissions. Its composite body is crash and element resistant and is approximately 20% to40% lighter than conventional steel or aluminum buses. With the ability to run 300-plus miles per day and up to 35 miles per charge, the EcoRide can replace existing buses on a one-to-one basis with no loss in performance or service limitations. More than 75% of Proterra’s compo-nents are made in America. The EcoRide empowers transit agencies by creating a predictable operation environment utilizing electricity, offering more price stability than fossil fuels

Sprinter Vans

The Sprinter MiniBus, available through Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner, is built longer and wider to now comfortably accommodate up to 18 people. With a “best-in-class” interior standing height of 6.25 feet and a dual-opening door of 38 inches, loading is quick and easy. On board, passengers relax inside a spacious interior featuring ample storage as well as other optional onboard amenities. The vehicle is outfitted with the Adaptive Electronic Stability Program and other cutting edge safety features. The Sprinter MiniBus has the versatility to move greater numbers in the right way. Build one that works specifically for you or choose from five standard smart choice packages: hotel, commuter, airport, valet and paratransit shuttle.

Starcraft Bus

The Allstar from Starcraft Bus leads the way as America’s best-selling shuttle bus. Time tested for nearly a decade, the 25,000-plus Starcraft buses on North America’s roads accommodate a large variety of seating arrangements. From the 3,000-pound seat pull test to the seven-year/200,000-mile Altoona testing, the Allstar surpasses stringent testing and its fully-welded steel cage offers the best passenger protection. It also maximizes shoulder space and offers the widest aisle in the industry.

Supreme Corp.

The Supreme Corp. P/S2C will meet the strictest driving needs, no matter how demanding they are. Strong steel cage sidewalls are extremely rugged to battle difficult road conditions, and eliminate exterior noise. The interior surfaces are stain and scratch-resistant for added durability. With floor plan offerings of up to 39 ambulatory passengers, this bus, built on the long-lasting Freightliner S2C chassis, is sure to provide customer satisfaction.

Temsa/CH Bus Sales

The Temsa TS35 is exclusively distributed in the U.S. by CH Bus Sales Inc. The TS35 is the only true 35-foot frameless monocoque coach built with stainless steel construction available in the U.S. Its integral construction ensures a smooth and stable ride, while its tremendous maneuverability enables it to access remote locations. With an American Cummins/Allison driveline, the TS35 provides exceptional power and optimum serviceability. These are combined with superb European quality and craftsmanship to create a high-quality driving experience. The TS35 is appropriate for smaller groups and more economical to purchase and operate than a larger coach, but with the same high end features.

Temsa/CH Bus Sales

The TS30 is a fully integral designed mid-size coach that provides the same level of comfort and amenities as a full size coach. Despite its compact dimensions, the TS30 has a tough, integral stainless steel chassis for extra durability and safety. The luxury interior integrates a high quality heating and air conditioning system, abundant luggage space, a restroom and reclining seats. With an American Cummins/Allison driveline, the TS30 provides excellent power and optimum serviceability. These are combined with superb Euro-pean quality and craftsmanship to create a high-quality driving experience. The TS30 is also appropriate for smaller groups and is more economical to purchase and operate than a standard, larger coach.

Turtle Top Inc.

The Van Terra is Turtle Top's alternative to 15-passenger vans and can be extended to allow for either more seating or storage. Built on a G3500 Chevrolet or E350 Ford chassis, it features a welded steel roll cage for optimal safety; school bus rollover protection; a wider stance for road stability; and a low, wide entrance for easy entry and exit. The Van Terra also comes in multiple passenger configurations and can be customized with a variety of features, such as TV monitors, luggage racks and reclining seats, for any customer application.

Turtle Top Inc.

The Odyssey name was established in Greek mythology and refers to an epic poem relating to the Trojan War with a long series of travels and adventures. The Turtle Top family of Odyssey buses features sophisticated styling and luxury amenities. Travel adventures in the Odyssey XL FM2, whether short or long, will provide up to 51 passengers with a comfortable riding experience. The FM2 model comes with a long list of standard features that are considered as optional equipment on many competitive products. Turtle Top’s long history has been associated with quality relating to safety, construction, styling and ease of operation.

Winnebago

The Metro Link, from Winnebago Industries Inc., features a one-piece fiberglass roof, a fully-welded tubular steel framework, high gloss fiberglass sidewalls, and exclusive frameless win-dows that offer exceptional performance and reduced long-term maintenance. The Metro Link is customizable in a number of passenger configurations to meet the needs of the transit and paratransit industry.

Collins Bus Corp.

Collins Bus Corp. is the recognized leader in the small bus market and dedicated advocates of alternative fuel applications. With its vendor partners, Collins provides the latest in safety and comfort in all aspects of the vehicle. The company offers green energy solutions of propane and CNG powered buses, in addition to traditional gas and diesel. Vehicles range in size up to 34 passengers and are Altoona-tested, simulating seven years and 200,000 miles of wear.