[IMAGE]MCI-Greyhound-full-1.jpg[/IMAGE]As part of Greyhound Lines' bid to modernize its fleet, it has awarded Motor Coach Industries (MCI) a contract for 70 MCI D4505 coaches. Greyhound also has an option for 30 additional coaches.

Greyhound's new D4505 coaches will be wired for Wi-Fi and equipped with passenger power outlets and three-point seatbelts. Additionally, each new coach will feature a wheelchair lift and plush leatherette passenger seating for 50, compared to the typical 55-seat configuration for the D4505 model. This move will give riders significantly more legroom.

Greyhound has also opted for MCI's optional air-ride driver's seat, opened up the driver's area for additional comfort, and added additional security features including an aisle gate and driver's shield. The coaches are wired for up to six onboard surveillance cameras. The new MCI D4505s are also powered by clean- diesel engine technology, specifically the Detroit Diesel Series 60 engine paired with an Allison B500 transmission.

Last year, Greyhound entered into a new replacement parts contract with MCI Service Parts, and is currently developing contracts to acquire additional MCI coaches with Section 5311 (f) federal funding offered by the Federal Transit Administration.

MCI's relationship with Greyhound Lines spans six decades. Nearly 90 percent of the vehicles in Greyhound's fleet are MCI coaches.

Delivery of the coaches will start in June 2010.