LA DOT Adds New CNG-Powered Commuter Coaches to Transit Fleet

The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LA DOT) added nine additional Commuter Coaches from New Flyer subsidiary Motor Coach Industries (MCI). The new 45-ft. coaches, purchased off an option at an estimated cost of $6.8 million, brings the number of CNG-powered MCI coaches now part of LA DOT’s fleet to 104.

According to LA DOT Chief of Transit Corinne Ralph, the new 45-ft. models serve the agency’s goal to improve the quality of express service by replacing older buses, expanding seating capacity, and leveraging technology for improved operational integration. The new coaches come equipped with the Cummins Westport 8.9L ISX-G CNG engine, which has helped LA DOT lower its emissions.

LA DOT’s Commuter Express system connects outlying suburban districts with Downtown Los Angeles and other busy centers including Century City, Westwood, LAX, El Segundo, Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank and Encino. LA DOT first ordered 84 CNG MCI Commuter Coaches in 2011.