A currently operating MARTA CNG bus (Image: NGVAmerica)
New Flyer Industries Inc., manufacturer of heavy-duty transit buses in the United States and Canada, has been awarded a contract for 265 30-foot and 40-foot heavy-duty buses with compressed natural gas (CNG) propulsion by Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). The contract contains a firm order of eight Low Floor Restyled CNG 30-foot buses and 80 Xcelsior™ CNG 40-foot buses with options for an additional 177 Xcelsior CNG or hybrid 40-foot buses to be exercised at a later date.
“We are excited to bring these New Flyer buses on board to enhance service to our customers,” said MARTA Chief Operations Officer Rich Krisak. “These buses, which will replace vehicles that have reached retirement age, are equipped with advanced technology to provide an overall better, more reliable transit experience.”
With the majority of its fleet represented by CNG buses, Atlanta has demonstrated its commitment to pursuing favorable sustainability practices. CNG systems reduce greenhouse gas emissions when compared to standard diesel propelled buses, leading to a healthier environment.
“We value our relationship with MARTA and commend them on their environmental commitments,” said Paul Soubry, President and CEO of New Flyer. “MARTA has become a great example of a green transit company. Not only do they work hard to reduce greenhouse gas emissions within the city, they strive to offer an efficient and enjoyable means of travel in order to expand its base of transit users and reduce traffic congestion.”
The firm order of 88 buses is anticipated to begin production in the second quarter of 2013. All buses are expected to be delivered by the fourth quarter of 2013.
New Flyer buses use the Cummins ISL-G 280 (CNG) engine.
(Source: New Flyer)
