Biz Briefscovers 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 Transdev, Spring Bird, Keolis, and more. 

Transdev to Provide Paratransit Services in Las Vegas

Transdev was awarded the contract to operate the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada’s (RTC) paratransit services in Las Vegas. 

The long-term contract, which began April 10, includes a five-year base term with two one-year extension options.

“We are excited to continue our partnership with RTC and bring innovative solutions to paratransit services in Las Vegas,” said Laura Hendricks, CEO of Transdev U.S. “Our focus is to deliver safe, reliable, and efficient transportation while leveraging new technology to improve the passenger experience.”

As part of the new contract, Transdev will introduce Vision Suite tools to optimize scheduling, dispatch, overall service efficiency, and employee communication. This will include MobiMe app, which enhances workforce management and real-time communication for operators; the Command Console system that streamlines dispatch and service monitoring; and the MyTransitManager app, which provides riders with real-time trip updates and improved trip planning.

The new contract will expand mobility options for paratransit users with wheelchair accessible vehicles provided by supplemental providers. Additionally, Transdev will utilize RTC’s Trapeze scheduling system to maintain seamless integration with RTC’s broader transportation network.

Zenobē Expands North American Fleet Financing Platform with Canadian Contract

Zenobē, a fleet electrification and battery storage specialist, is providing a facility of $48 million in debt financing to 7Gen, Canada’s leading EV-as-a Service provider, to scale its commercial EV leasing platform and deploy electric vehicle infrastructure across the country. 

Founded in 2020, 7Gen supports fleet operators with a comprehensive solution that includes fleet assessments, vehicle leasing and financing, charger deployment, energy management, and operational support. 

7Gen will apply the proceeds to finance between 400 to 500 new commercial electric vehicles bundled with charging solutions, while refinancing a portion of its current fleet. 

The $48 million facility is the largest private debt financing for electric vehicles in the country and recognizes commercial electric fleets as a scalable and financeable asset class. 

Spring Bird Delivers Transit Buses to MTR 

Spring Bird delivered six heavy-duty New Flyer D40LF transit buses to MTR, providing dedicated shuttle support for a large-scale semiconductor fabrication plant construction site. 

The buses will be used to safely and efficiently transport construction workers across the expansive site, reflecting the growing demand for durable, high-capacity shuttle solutions in complex infrastructure projects.

The buses underwent standard make-ready servicing and were delivered ready for immediate deployment. While not retrofitted with low-emission or advanced telematics systems in this case, the New Flyer D40LF platform offers reliable performance, ample standing room, and durability that outperforms most traditional coach or cutaway vehicles under demanding, repetitive shuttle conditions.

Boston’s MWRTA Taps Keolis

The Boston Metro West Regional Transit Authority’s (MWRTA) advisory board voted to approve Keolis as its operator of local, fixed route, and paratransit services. 

The three-year contract further expands Keolis’ presence in the greater Boston region where it is currently the MBTA’s operating partner for both commuter rail and parking services. 

Effective July 1, Keolis will begin operating the MWRTA’s demand response, fixed route, commuter shuttle, and microtransit services. With 90 vehicles, MWRTA provides approximately 700,000 annual trips across its 400 square mile service area. 

MWRTA will have the opportunity to exercise two one-year options in addition to the initial contract.