MCI to build hybrids for Houston METRO

Motor Coach Industries (MCI) will provide the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (Houston METRO) with 52 diesel-electric hybrid coaches, with options for a total of 142 units.  

“Houston METRO is committed to cleaning up the environment and already has hybrid transit buses in operation, but this is the first time this agency will fully utilize the technology in its long-distance commuter application,” said Michael Melaniphy, MCI vice president, public sector. “We’re honored to be part of the agency’s solution to a cleaner tomorrow.”  

MCI’s next-generation diesel-electric hybrids feature the new-look D4500 (45-foot) model, as well as a Cummins low-emission clean-diesel engine and an Allison propulsion system.  

Additionally, the new coaches will use shore power at the depot to activate the A/C unit and cool the passenger cabin prior to departure, eliminating the reliance on engine idling.