Orion completes first production of N.Y. hybrids

Orion Bus Industries completed deliveries on the first of two production orders for hybrid-electric buses to MTA New York City Transit. By the end of 2005, the agency will operate the world's largest fleet of hybrid buses, totaling 325 units. The initial 125-unit production fleet features a HybriDrive diesel-electric propulsion system by BAE Systems. In some 2 million miles of revenue service, the system has improved fuel economy more than 30% compared to conventionally powered buses, while reducing emissions: 90% less particulate matter and 40% less NOx. Orion, a unit of DaimlerChrysler Commercial Buses North America, is currently filling a second production order for 200 of its 40-foot Orion VII low-floor hybrid models, with deliveries scheduled to be completed this year.