Motor Coach Industries (MCI), a U.S. subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., announced that the Banff-based Bow Valley Regional Transit Services Commission ordered four MCI D45 CRT LE Commuter Coaches to serve its Roam public transit system expansion between the scenic towns of Banff and Lake Louise in the Bow Valley of Alberta's Rockies.

The MCI D45 CRT LE is the first-ever Commuter Coach bus design with a curb-level automated ramp at mid-coach that directs passengers into a low-entry vestibule with seating configured for riders using mobility devices, including next-generation motorized wheelchairs. The rest of the 54-passenger coach features upper-level forward facing seating, Wi-Fi, and electrical outlets to serve every passenger on growing distance ridership routes.

The four new MCI coaches will serve Roam’s longest-distance route — a 45-minute commute — connecting the town of Banff and Lake Louise.

When designing the D45 CRT LE, MCI engaged Designworks, a BMW Group Company, and people with disabilities advocacy groups, creating a modern coach with revolutionary accessibility to improve passenger boarding and lower dwell time.

On these four coaches, scheduled for April 2019 delivery, Roam Transit is adding optional bike racks, and considering ski/snowboard racks during the winter season. The order will bring Roam Transit’s fleet to 24 buses. In a tribute to the area’s natural beauty, each bus will be wrapped with images of Rocky Mountain wildlife taken by local and notable photographers.