MTD's Newest Hybrids Hit the Street!
By Jan Kijowski on 1/23/2013 12:00:00 AMMTD's newest members of the hybrid diesel-electric bus fleet are being phased into service. These New Flyer Xcelsior XDE40 buses represent the most up-to-date hybrid technology available. Ten of these vehicles were purchased and will be phased into service.
The 2013 buses "kneel" lower than any other in MTD's fleet making it easier for anyone who has difficulty stepping up to enter the bus. This also means that the ramp deploys at a less severe angle making it easier for those who use mobility assistance devices to enter the vehicle. There is a terrific safety enhancement in the form of lights just behind the front wheels that illuminate the area of a turn when the turn signal is activated.
The buses are similar to the 2011 New Flyer NFR diesel-electric hybrids. There are a few differences, however. There are no seams between the window frames and the bus which makes a smooth transition between bus exterior and window. The emergency hatches in the roof are mini-skylights allowing natural light to enter the coach. There is a rear window on the vehicles. The 2013 buses are less heavy than the 2011 hybrids which will improve fuel efficiency.
With the addition of these ten buses, MTD's fleet is more than 50% hybrid diesel-electric. MTD is excited to put these state-of-the-art vehicles into service!