Motor Coach Industries (MCI) celebrated the delivery of the industry’s first hybrid diesel-electric commuter coach, as well as the delivery of the 5,000th coach to roll of its Winnipeg E/J line, during a press conference at the APTA Expo on Tuesday.

On hand for the event were Ronald Bast, president of the Richfield, Wis.-based Riteway Bus Service, which took delivery of the 5,000th E/J line coach, and Houston Metro CEO Frank J. Wilson. Houston Metro, which placed an initial order of 102 coaches, is currently running five of the Hybrid diesel-electric commuters on various routes.

The company also announced the inception of Meritor Wabco Electronic Stability Control on its D-Series models. ESC becomes active when the Electronic Control Unit senses instabilities in cornering, sudden changes in direction, dangerous condition like slippery lanes and avoidance maneuvers.

Additionally, MCI recently won an Adwheel Award for its Webinar Series, which addresses issues, such as new engine technology, ways to save fuel and marketing ideas to drive market demand.