New Flyer Adding BAE’s Propulsion System to its Hybrid-Electric Buses

New Flyer of America Inc. (New Flyer) announced the addition of BAE Systems’ Gen3 modular power control system (MPCS) and traction motor as an available powertrain option for Xcelsior® hybrid-electric transit buses built from model year 2025 onward.

The next-generation system from BAE Systems is smaller and lighter than the previous generation product.

The reduced number of components, cables, and connections in the MPCS works in conjunction with hardware and software improvements to provide more reliability, more efficiency, and a better total cost of ownership over the life of the bus.

The BAE MPCS

The system features two energy storage options, including a 12-year-life ultracapacitor or a part-time electric, geofencing-capable solution, all supported by BAE Systems’ extensive North American service network.

BAE Systems’ Gen3 system represents progress gained across more than 27 years of innovation and improvement, built off lessons learned from across 18,000 fielded electric propulsion systems.

“At New Flyer, we are working continuously to integrate new parts and technologies, and with each new inclusion we aim to strike a balance between products that are innovative and reliable,” said Ian Macpherson, VP, engineering services, New Flyer and MCI. “We believe offering this new MPCS option is an important next step in our continuing mission to provide our customers with a more reliable, efficient and sustainable product.”

Expanding New Flyer’s Options

New Flyer has a wide variety of propulsion options across its Xcelsior family of heavy-duty transit buses, including battery-electric, fuel cell-electric, and hybrid-electric options.

Hybrid-electric vehicles can often serve as a low-emission steppingstone for agencies before they transition to zero-emission options.

The implementation of these vehicles allows time for necessary support elements, such as infrastructure, to be implemented while still immediately reducing an agency’s greenhouse gas (GHG) contributions.

“New Flyer understands that our position as a leader in sustainable transit makes it necessary for us to meet communities where they are as they work towards their emission reduction goals,” said Jennifer McNeill, VP, public sector sales & marketing, New Flyer and MCI. “For many agencies, hybrid-electric buses are the option best suited to their current circumstances and a first step towards fleet decarbonization.”