The State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA), which manages the Xpress mobility and public transportation operations throughout the 12 counties surrounding metropolitan Atlanta, ordered 77 new MCI D4500 and 15 all-accessible MCI D45 CRT LE Commuter Coaches.

Last September, the two coaches were listed on the Georgia State Contract for Public Mass Transit and Transportation Vehicles. The statewide contract serves as a centralized purchasing mechanism for all state and local Georgia public entities from local governments to state offices and universities. Georgia makes this contract available to other states, too.

MCI’s ADA and Buy America-compliant and Altoona-tested D4500 and D45 CRT LE designed for comfortable distance travel. With an aging population, workers living farther outside city centers and fewer younger citizens buying cars, both models are flexible alternatives for transporting riders safely, economically, and comfortably to their destination.

Introduced in 2017, the MCI D45 CRT LE features modern styling and a patented mid-coach low-entry vestibule with passenger seating and curb-level ramp system allowing easy access for all passengers, including those with mobility devices. The dual entry on the model speeds passenger entry and exit to match low floor transit dwell times.

Both models are designed for durability, essential for vehicles placed on long-term distance commuting routes. MCI’s Commuter Coach brand is known for its rugged semi-monocoque structure and comfort and safety features including above-traffic, forward-facing seating with seatbelts, and electronic passenger services onboard.

The D4500 coaches will begin delivering in August 2019 with deliveries of the D45 CRT LE beginning first quarter 2020.