Motor Coach Industries (MCI), a subsidiary of New Flyer Industries Inc. announced that San Luis Obispo, Calif.'s Silverado Stages Inc. will strengthen its environmental commitment by welcoming eight new low-emission, ADA-compliant, well-appointed MCI J4500 coaches. It is the first time Silverado will feature the J4500 coach in its 130-coach fleet.
Silverado’s new J4500 coaches are equipped with Detroit Diesel engines and Allison transmissions featuring the latest emission-control advances. The model also has standard driver-assistance features including electronic stability program (ESP), fire suppression and tire pressure monitoring. Silverado has added the optional Bendix Wingman Advanced, a radar-based collision avoidance system, back-up camera and an internal PA safety announcement system.
Drivers are also likely to appreciate the model’s independent front suspension, car-like braking and an excellent turning radius that stands at 41 feet, nine inches. The coaches additionally feature wheelchair lifts.
Amenities on Silverado’s coaches include Kiel seating with tray tables. Kiel is a new seating option for the J4500, offering extra leg room and a more modern profile, complementing an interior that includes Wi-Fi and power outlets at every seat.
To further its green initiative, Silverado is working with GreenRoad, a fleet safety software company that offers a full suite of programs to help operators reduce fuel consumption and cut emissions. Applications include driver training, route optimization and real-time vehicle-performance data to ensure peak efficiency and help reduce carbon output.
Last year, United Motorcoach Association honored Silverado Stages with a Vision Award for the company’s business practices, high safety standards, and innovative operations. In accepting the award, Jim Galusha, Chairman of Silverado Stages, promised to stay cutting-edge. To that end, recent technology upgrades include an 8x8 VOIP Cloud communications system and the adoption of sales automation tools, resulting in faster response times, increased fleet utilization and increased customer satisfaction.
Premiums remain elevated. Underwriting scrutiny is intense. And claims costs continue to rise at historic levels. Behind those numbers lies a complex mix of legal, medical, and cultural forces reshaping the commercial landscape.
The company said it has remained the most widely purchased model in the new coach market across the US and Canada, according to historical data from the Motorcoach Builders Survey conducted by the American Bus Association
A phased approach to technology, in-house capabilities, and workforce investment is helping transportation leaders break the reactive cycle and build more resilient, revenue-focused operations.
The company's flagship H3-45 is also the best-selling 45-foot motorcoach in North America, according to vehicle registration data from S&P Global Mobility (Polk).
METRO’s Executive Editor Alex Roman spoke with Mueller about the opening event, the company’s progress since launching in late 2022, and the road ahead.
METRO Executive Editor Alex Roman presented the award to the operation’s President/CEO Scott Parsons at the United Motorcoach Association’s EXPO in Birmingham, Alabama.
