Biz Briefs covers the latest supplier news in the motorcoach and public transit industries.

In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at the latest news from suppliers including MCI, GOGO Charters, LYT, and Alexander Dennis. 

MCI Lands Metrolinx Contract 

NFI Group subsidiary Motor Coach Industries (MCI) was awarded a significant contract from Metrolinx, an agency of the Ontario government with a mandate to improve the coordination and integration of all modes of transportation in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. 

The Metrolinx award includes an initial firm order for 80 45-foot D45 CRT diesel commuter coaches along with a number of options that were added to NFI’s fourth quarter 2024 backlog. 

Metrolinx operates GO Transit and UP Express public transportation systems, and the PRESTO payment network, serving the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area in Ontario. 

This new fleet of coaches will ensure Metrolinx can continue to meet operational needs.

LYT Achieves SOC 2 TYPE 2 Compliance

LYT’s platform achieved SOC 2 Type 2 compliance, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to cybersecurity excellence. 

The milestone reflects LYT’s dedication to safeguarding the sensitive data and systems relied upon by cities and municipalities for their transit infrastructure.

SOC 2 Type 2 is a rigorous standard established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) to evaluate an organization’s systems and controls over an extended period. It ensures adherence to key principles:

• Security: Protection against unauthorized access and safeguarding sensitive data from breaches.

• Availability: Ensures systems are operation, reliable, and resilient.

Achieving this compliance demonstrates that LYT not only meets these stringent standards but exceeds expectations in ensuring the security of its platforms.

Alexander Dennis Delivers First Enviro500 built by BRM 

Alexander Dennis delivered the first two of seven Enviro500 double deck buses for Spokane Transit Authority (STA) in Washington state.

The new Enviro500 for Spokane Transit are the first buses to have been completed by Alexander Dennis’ manufacturing partner Big Rig Manufacturing (BRM) at its newly established facility in Las Vegas. 

The 80,000 sq. ft. site is dedicated to the production of Alexander Dennis low and zero-emission double deckers. 

Spokane Transit’s new vehicles are 42.5 feet long and 13.6 feet tall. Each bus seats 82 passengers and can accommodate up to 108 riders, including space for two wheelchairs. The buses are fully ADA-compliant and equipped with a powered ramp at the front door for accessibility.

Over the coming months, Spokane Transit will focus on testing and driver training to ensure smooth integration into operations. When deployed, the double-decker buses will improve capacity and efficiency on two popular routes.

GOGO Charters Announces New Dallas-Fort Worth Routes

GOGO Charters announced a new daily charter bus route emanating from the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. 

The announcement follows the introduction of these luxury routes, which aim to connect consumers with a sophisticated alternative to air and rail travel, while also serving as a catalyst for transportation in the region.

This service update adds to GOGO Charters' growing network of charter bus routes and will provide daily service to the following cities: Dallas-Fort Worth <> Waco <> Austin <> San Antonio

Passengers riding GOGO Charters Charter Bus Routes can expect an elevated travel experience with modern buses offering amenities including plush reclining seats, Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms.