MBT Worldwide goes for modern economy with three Setra S 407 coaches
The Setra S 407 Comfort Class, like the luxury Setra S 417, distributed by MCI in the U.S. and Canada, offers German engineering and a clean-power Mercedes-Benz BlueTec engine.


When it comes to motor coach transportation, Boston-area MBT Worldwide likes to keep its coach fleet modern, and costs moderate, passing savings on to customers. The company, which runs a wide variety of vehicles, added three new Setra S 407 coaches last month for that very reason.
“We like the look of Setra’s European styling and the value,” said Russell Libby, owner, who runs MBT Worldwide with other family members.
The Setra S 407 Comfort Class, like the luxury Setra S 417, distributed by MCI in the U.S. and Canada, offers German engineering and a clean-power Mercedes-Benz BlueTec engine. Safety features include an Electronic Stability Program, all-wheel disc brakes, and ABA braking with anti-slip control. Passengers will enjoy many onboard amenities from extra comfortable seats to video monitors.
RELATED:MCI names VP, marketing and product planning
Libby, who was an electrician prior to joining and later buying out his father-in-law’s airport flight-crew shuttle business, is a stickler for a well-maintained fleet. MBT’s 10 coaches, mostly MCI and Setra models, are cared for by MBT mechanics at the company’s own maintenance shop. When issues arise, Libby counts on MCI’s aftermarket support and in-field representatives.
People feature prominently in the success of MBT, which serves a wide variety of clients, including schools, athletic teams and corporations. Libby credits his nephew, Craig, along with other family members and staff for the company’s 30-plus-percent annual growth rate.
“Without the people, it just can’t happen,” said Libby, who even seeks out drivers’ opinions on pricing trips. “We have one of the best core groups of drivers. I know I don’t have all the answers, but we all work together to resolve situations that come up. Living requires learning something new every day.”
Libby’s optimism extends to his industry view. “It’s an exciting business because most of what we do centers on happiness, with weddings, social events or travel to great destinations. It’s very rewarding.”
More Motorcoach

Biz Briefs: OCTA Taps Clean Energy for Hydrogen Station, Stadler to Supply Via Rail Vehicles, and More
From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.
Read More →
CharterUP Expands Into New Mobility and Autonomous Transportation
Vice President of New Mobility Stephen Joos discusses how CharterUP is leveraging its nationwide transportation network, technology platform, and autonomous vehicle partnerships to expand into workforce mobility, campus shuttles, and transit solutions.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More
From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.
Read More →
EPA Proposal to Ease Diesel Emissions Compliance Could Improve Reliability for Motorcoach Operators
The EPA is proposing to remove DEF-related engine derates for new heavy-duty diesel vehicles, a change bus operators say would improve safety and reliability while sparking debate over the future of emissions enforcement.
Read More →
Minnesota's Rustad Tours Takes Delivery of New MCI Motorcoach
The latest addition represents Rustad Tours’ 17th new MCI coach, marking more than four decades of partnership between the two companies.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: Endera Delivers to California, Safety Vision Teams with San Antonio's VIA, and More
From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.
Read More →
Modernizing Mobility with CharterUP CEO Armir Harris
From digital transformation to evolving customer demands, CharterUP's Armir Harris offers his perspective on the transportation industry's next chapter.
Read More →
Bipartisan BUSES Act Seeks Changes to New York City's Bus Idling Enforcement Program
Backed by motorcoach operators, the legislation seeks to balance emissions goals with passenger safety by allowing limited idling for inspections, accessibility needs and extreme weather conditions.
Read More →METROspectives: CharterUP CEO Armir Harris on Modernizing Mobility
From digital transformation to evolving customer demands, CharterUP's CEO Armir Harris offers his perspective on the transportation industry's next chapter.
Read More →
Reinventing Fleet Maintenance with Real-time Visibility and AI
Transit leaders need to know what needs fixing, where to look, who is responsible, when work is completed, and what it costs without having to chase information across disconnected systems.
Read More →