MCI delivers 25 J4500s, announces staffing changes
Roberts Hawaii’s newest J4500 coaches feature a redesign, which includes stylish LED headlights and a heightened presence for more curb appeal on the outside, while on the inside, passengers still enjoy the easy-to-board spiral entryway and tiered theater seating.

Roberts Hawaii founder Robert Iwamoto (center) and his wife, Arlene, mark the delivery of 25 new MCI J4500 coaches with his sons Scott (second from left) and Chad (far right), along with company president and COO Percy Higashi.

The purchase represents a return to the J4500 model for the company, which has been an MCI customer for three decades.
Roberts Hawaii’s newest J4500 coaches feature a redesign, which includes stylish LED headlights and a heightened presence for more curb appeal on the outside, while on the inside, passengers still enjoy the easy-to-board spiral entryway and tiered theater seating for exceptional views from every seat.
The model comes equipped with new clean-diesel engine technology for lower emissions and better fuel economy, along with MCI’s MDSS suspension system for greater maneuverability and a smoother ride. Standard safety features include three-point passenger seatbelts, electronic stability control, and tire pressure and fire-suppression systems.
MCI also announced it is promoting four people to VP positions and adding new roles to marketing, following a solid year of “sales and marketing triumphs.”
The new VPs are Mitch Guralnick, VP, pre-owned coach sales; Tom Wagner, VP, public sector sales; Louis Quaglia, VP, regional public sector sales; and Darill King, VP, Setra sales specialist.
Meanwhile, Brent Danielson, based at MCI’s Winnipeg plant, moves into director, sales engineering and product planning, where he will work with sales, engineering, and production to improve information flow and customer satisfaction, while Brad Noeske has been promoted to manager, product planning and analysis.
Last year, MCI won several large orders from Public Sector accounts including a 31-coach order from MASS DOT for its Bus Plus+ program and a NJ Transit order for 84 CNG Commuter Coaches.
The company also rolled out its highly popular Re-energized pre-owned coach program that allows operators to outfit their existing or purchased MCI pre-owned coaches with features to achieve like-new condition.
More Management

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 →
CTTC Enhances Transit Workforce Pipeline Through New Partnerships and Leadership
The group's latest initiatives focus on developing talent, expanding training opportunities and addressing workforce needs across the transit sector.
Read More →
San Diego MTS Keeps Service Intact With New FY 2027 Budget
The approved spending plan avoids route cuts and lays the groundwork for addressing transit funding challenges through the end of the decade.
Read More →
Solving The Driver Shortage: What Transit Agencies Can Learn From the Trucking Industry
See how transit agencies facing persistent driver shortages can learn from the trucking industry’s evolving strategies for recruitment, retention, workplace conditions, and more.
Read More →
FIFA World Cup Matches Are Driving Record Transit Ridership Nationwide
See how World Cup matches are generating record transit demand across North America, with ridership surpassing Super Bowls, concerts, and Olympic-era events.
Read More →
The Hidden Cost of Fuel Data Inaccuracy in Public Transit Fleets
In today's transit environment, accurate fuel and mileage data are critical to reducing costs, minimizing downtime, and improving fleet performance.
Read More →
Virginia's $28.5B Transportation Plan Targets Transit and Rail
Approved by the Commonwealth Transportation Board, the program supports ongoing infrastructure projects while providing new investments in transit, state of good repair and transportation alternatives.
Read More →
Latinos In Transit Seeks Host Organization for 2027 Leadership Summit
The selected host organization will showcase its transit system, projects, and community while welcoming hundreds of industry leaders and emerging professionals during Hispanic Heritage Month.
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 →
DOT: Brightline Corridor Incidents Fall 30% Following Federal Safety Upgrades
Safety improvements funded through a $25 million federal investment are credited with reducing trespassing and train-vehicle collisions along the Brightline Florida corridor.
Read More →