Motor Coach Industries (MCI) has unveiled D45 CRT CHARGE, a new zero-emission, battery-electric version of its popular high-floor commuter coach.
The D45 CRT CHARGE is a zero-emission version of the best-selling D45 Commuter Rapid Transit (CRT) series public transit coach. It integrates proven CHARGE propulsion from New Flyer, including regenerative braking, and features design advancements of MCI’s next-generation D45 CRT commuter transit coaches, including enhanced reliability, efficiency and high performance.
The D45 CRT CHARGE is the eighth unique zero-emission bus MCI’s parent company, NFI, has introduced in the past two years.
“Our market-leading electric vehicle portfolio continues to expand, demonstrating NFI’s undeniable leadership in the electrification of mass mobility,” said Chris Stoddart, President, North American Bus and Coach, NFI. “With electric drive components, MCI’s smooth-riding suspension, and real-time smart analytics on board, this fully accessible coach delivers an outstanding combination of performance and sustainability benefits to transit operators.”
Clean, efficient operation
The Buy America-compliant D45 CRT CHARGE harnesses three high-performing technologies to deliver a more efficient and sustainable commuter vehicle, including a high-torque electric drive system delivering up to 90% energy recovery and designed to efficiently handle long-distance applications at highway speeds; next generation, high-energy, long-range batteries delivering a range of over 225 miles with 520 kWh of battery capacity; and interoperable plug-in battery charging from empty to full in less than 4 hours.
“MCI continues to support North America’s operators in transitioning to 100% zero-emission coach fleets, ultimately advancing their climate change action plans for a more sustainable future,” said Jennifer McNeill, Vice President of Public Sector Sales and Marketing, New Flyer and MCI. “The D45 CRT CHARGE will avoid the equivalent of approximately 80 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually, delivering immediate emission reduction for more sustainable and healthier communities across North America.”
The Buy America-compliant D45 CRT CHARGE comes with MCI’s legendary quality and reliability, retaining the class-leading features of the D45 CRT series, known as workhorses in the public transit industry. Through common systems and production, a rugged stainless-steel frame for maximum durability, modern styling, and an optional 360-degree camera system and tire monitoring system, the D45 CRT series contributes to lower operating costs and provides an outstanding passenger experience during the life of the coach.
Proven technologies
The D45 CRT CHARGE uses the same interoperable charging equipment that supports all heavy-duty electric vehicles and leverages NFI Infrastructure Solutions, a full suite service providing proven project management for smart mobility projects. The D45 CRT CHARGE is also equipped with NFI Connect, an exclusive, advanced telematics solution providing real-time oversight of an entire fleet, improving bus uptime and lowering operating costs.
The launch continues MCI’s vision to bring its common coach architecture to the market, which includes the new D45 CRT and the other D series models, including the D4520 for private sector operations. The common platform was initially launched with the industry leading J4500, which is now available in zero-emission and clean diesel, and brings best-in-class legroom and common vehicle systems for improved quality and ease of maintenance.
All MCI coaches are backed by MCI support services, including in-field expertise, a technical call center, and 24/7 roadside assistance; ongoing technical training from the industry’s only Automotive Service Excellence-accredited MCI Academy technician training center; parts support from NFI Parts, the industry’s largest parts supplier; MCI Service Centers; and finally, on-the-go support with the MCI Operators app and MCI Companion app.
To provide workforce development on D45 CRT CHARGE technologies, MCI will host a no-cost virtual training session on Dec. 8 through NFI’s Vehicle Innovation Center. To register for the VIC session or to learn more about the D45 CRT CHARGE fuel cell-electric bus, visit mcicoach.com/electric.
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