MCI delivers 25 J4500s, announces staffing changes

Roberts Hawaii, which welcomes visitors to the Hawaii Islands from all over the world on its excursions and tours, took delivery of 25 new MCI J4500 coaches. Its subsidiary, Chicago Coach Classic, received five of the new models.

The purchase represents a return to the J4500 model for the company, which has been an MCI customer for three decades.

Roberts Hawaii’s newest J4500 coaches feature a redesign, which includes stylish LED headlights and a heightened presence for more curb appeal on the outside, while on the inside, passengers still enjoy the easy-to-board spiral entryway and tiered theater seating for exceptional views from every seat.

The model comes equipped with new clean-diesel engine technology for lower emissions and better fuel economy, along with MCI’s MDSS suspension system for greater maneuverability and a smoother ride. Standard safety features include three-point passenger seatbelts, electronic stability control, and tire pressure and fire-suppression systems.

MCI also announced it is promoting four people to VP positions and adding new roles to marketing, following a solid year of “sales and marketing triumphs.”

The new VPs are Mitch Guralnick, VP, pre-owned coach sales; Tom Wagner, VP, public sector sales; Louis Quaglia, VP, regional public sector sales; and Darill King, VP, Setra sales specialist.

Meanwhile, Brent Danielson, based at MCI’s Winnipeg plant, moves into director, sales engineering and product planning, where he will work with sales, engineering, and production to improve information flow and customer satisfaction, while Brad Noeske has been promoted to manager, product planning and analysis.

Last year, MCI won several large orders from Public Sector accounts including a 31-coach order from MASS DOT for its Bus Plus+ program and a NJ Transit order for 84 CNG Commuter Coaches.

The company also rolled out its highly popular Re-energized pre-owned coach program that allows operators to outfit their existing or purchased MCI pre-owned coaches with features to achieve like-new condition.