FYI from MCI Summer Edition 2018

FROM

FYI

Summer 2018

MCI IN 2018

TRAINING CAMP

MAINTENANCE MATTERS

Key priorities build on a history of industry accomplishments.

Training Schedule through December 2018.

Charging ahead: Know your Starter Inhibit safety feature

© 2018 Motor Coach Industries International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

FROM

FYI

IN THIS ISSUE

Happy summer. This issue of FYI from MCI covers what we’ve been up to over the past few months, and includes a compilation of articles we hope you will find useful, including our award-winning MCI Academy, battery-electric innovations and innovation center, and expansion in the livery market. To see our new product innovations for yourself, please join us at an upcoming Reliability Rally. Details on our one-day events are found inside. You’ll enjoy discounts on coaches, parts and services, test-drives, drawings for valuable prizes throughout the day, along with product, training and supplier sessions, and lunch on us as we celebrate our 85th anniversary. Please bring your teams and join our party!

On behalf of everyone at MCI we thank you for your business and look forward to seeing you at our Rally events.

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This puts coach travel in a whole new light

The 2018 MCI J4500.

Discover the beauty within. ®

Cue the lights. Bring on the ambiance. When it comes to wowing passengers, the 2018 MCI J4500 has the inside track. With a newly redesigned interior, the J4500 features more beautiful lighting throughout, including programmable variable LED color lighting that can bathe the cabin in the hue of your choice. And now, with the most floor space in the industry, the J4500 offers the best-in-class legroom and seating for up to 60 passengers.

Factor in the model’s low total cost of operation, its more spacious and functional driver cockpit and a rear window option, and you’ve got a coach that’s truly ready to impress.

Get Enlightened.

Visit J4500-enlightened.com

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CONTENTS Summer 2018

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CHARGING AHEAD: KNOW YOUR STARTER INHIBIT SAFETY FEATURE

MCI MARKS ITS 85TH ANNIVERSARY WITH BIGGEST RELIABILITY RALLY PRODUCT ROLLOUT EVER.

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TRAIN

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MCI IN 2018: KEY PRIORITIES BUILD ON A HISTORY OF INDUSTRY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

ING CAMP

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NORTH AMERICA’S # 1 MOTOR COACH ON THE ROAD WITH BATTERYELECTRIC

MCI IN 2018: KEY PRIORITIES BUILD ON A HISTORY OF INDUSTRY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

As MCI marks its 85th anniversary, the forecast is all about “getting even better at what we achieved in these last few years,” said Ian Smart, MCI President. Well into the third year of NFI Group ownership, MCI is in one of its fastest growing years in its history. And for 2018, Smart’s goal for MCI is laser-focused on these priorities:

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Creating truly innovative coaches that are best-in-class

The industry-best-selling MCI J4500 now features more interior space for greater legroom and capacity to seat 60 comfortably with interior programmable color lighting options, along with next-generation Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) innovations only from MCI.

Bendix forward-facing radar

NEW! Bendix Fusion forward-facing camera

NEW! Key features now incorporated into display such as Wingman Fusion collision mitigation and tire pressure monitoring

MCI is also ready for orders on its newest 35-foot, two-axle model, the J3500, with seating for up to 44 passengers and a turning radius of under 33 feet for greater maneuverability.

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Last Fall’s introduction of the groundbreaking all-accessible D45 CRT LE Commuter Coach captured industry attention for its patent-pending low entry vestibule with seating that speeds boarding of all passengers, especially those using mobility devices. Transit systems are already testing the model and production is about to begin.

And the best is yet to come. A prototype is already in testing for the first battery-electric J4500 – the J4500e CHARGE. MCI will also apply its battery-electric platform, developed in cooperation with New Flyer, to the D45 CRT LE Commuter Coach followed by the electric 35-foot MCI J, giving operators the most comprehensive choices in purpose-built, all-electric coaches.

Continuing to build the industry’s No. 1 service model MCI’s San Francisco Bay Area Sales and Service Center opening in Hayward, California last Fall was a true milestone in MCI’s future service model for its brand and other leading coach and bus brands. It’s the blueprint for renovations to take place at all other MCI Sales and Service Centers located in key markets in the U.S. and Canada, with improvements to tooling, equipment and aesthetics to make MCI service centers industry-leading in every way.

“MCI’s customer service support structure is designed to provide more uptime and maximum profitability for operators,” said Smart. “It’s about reliability around the clock to earn repeat business. Our focus is to help operators succeed. Our coaches are getting nearer to automotive quality and customers can expect the service experience with MCI coaches to be as reliable.” 

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When expectations are high, MCI provides luxury at every turn.

The #1 MCI® J4500 Livery Edition Take your group business to the next level by adding the industry’s best-selling tour and charter coach to your fleet. Styled for Wow Factor with unmatched passenger appeal inside and out and built for long-term value with the most floor space in the industry and capacity for up to 60 passengers, the MCI J4500 can be customized for your needs with leather seating, variable LED interior color lighting, a rear window option, and more. With MCI, you’ll also find: • New coaches available for immediate delivery • Ready-to-roll pre-owned coaches • Monthly payment options * • White Glove service support** Visit mcicoach.com to contact your MCI representative or get in touch at 866-MCI-Coach. *Restrictions apply. **Priority scheduled maintenance program includes a menu of value-priced service options at seven MCI Sales and Service Centers throughout the U.S. and Canada.

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I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

BY ROB SMENTEK

MCI AND WINDY CITY: A PARTNERSHIP BUILT ON RESPECT W

L to R: Vicki Bowman, marketing manager, MCI; George Jacobs, CEO, Windy City Limousine; Patricia Ziska, vice president – new coach sales, MCI; and Kathy Kahne, president, Windy City Limousine at MCI corporate offices in Des Plaines, Ill.

26 05.2018 chauffeurdriven.com 8

indy City Limousine & Bus CEO George Jacobs was certainly no stranger to chauffeured ground transportation when he decided to add motorcoaches to his Chicago-based fleet more than 10 years ago, but he was in the right place and the right time.

“In 2007, none of the limousine companies had motorcoaches,” he says.

“We had to contract work from the local bus companies, but they usually closed at 5 p.m. during the week and weren’t open at all on the weekend. The customer service and professionalism were often lacking.”

But something even more important was also missing.

“The quality of their vehicles was lacking, too,” adds Kathy Kahne, president of Windy City. “We were providing minicoaches since day one, and our limousine, sedan, and SUV customers had grown accustomed to experiencing luxury service. Eventually they came to us and said, ‘Hey, if you can put 39 in a vehicle, why can’t you get motorcoaches and give us that same experience?’ We became confident that we could make it work.”

With the customer demand secured, notably through Windy City’s strong relationships with local DMCs, corporate clientele, and sports teams, Jacobs and his team set forth to bring coach work to the business, but with a difference.

“First and foremost, we’re a limousine company,” Jacobs says. “From the get-go, we wanted chauffeurs driving the coaches, not just bus drivers. We wanted them dressed neatly in a uniform with an understanding of luxury customer service. They represent the company and we’re proud of them.”

Having a groundbreaking strategy, an outstanding team, and existing clientele in place, it was imperative that Jacobs purchase the right vehicles for the company’s ambitious motorcoach business. Jacobs needed buses that were reliable, safe, and eye-catching, and fortunately, he notes that they weren’t far from his reach.

Motor Coach Industries (MCI) is one of the longest-standing brands in the ground transportation industry. Founded in 1933, the motorcoach manufacturer—located in the Chicago suburb of Des Plaines—has been a leader in building and supplying buses for the private sector, including charter and

I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

Windy City’s new 2018 MCI J4500 motorcoach on the Chicago Lake Front

BY ROB SMENTEK

tour operators, as well as public transit, where they supply equipment to companies to enter the market. We still get excited to see their buses on the states and cities around the country. Jacobs said it was their rich history, road in our home town.” along with their vehicles’ stellar reputation in reliability and comfort that Kahne is a fan of MCI’s products and service alike. “Their vehicles are made it an easy decision to purchase two refurbished MCI J4500 coaches far superior to many others that are on the road, but their customer service as his inaugural buses. is bar-none. They’re local to us, so if we need parts and service, it’s literally “When we got those first two MCI coaches, Chicago was a wide-open a half hour from our facility. They are just a good company. I like to say that market for a quality bus company,” says Kahne. “It was kind of a Field of they’re a giant company with a family feel to it.”

Dreams situation—build it and they will come. Things exploded quickly. We “All buses break down eventually, we get that,” adds Jacobs. “But when had rolling billboards with beautiful, black, sexy buses and one of the most we’ve had something happen with an MCI vehicle, we’ll have that part in a amazing logos in the industry. They would roll up and down the streets of Chi- half hour. Or if something happens that we can’t fix in-house, they’re going to cago, catching everyone’s eyes. Word of mouth spread like wildfire.” give us a loaner. They’re customer-focused—and their warranty and service When Kahne gives advice to opis worth its weight in gold. MCI is willerators looking to add motorcoaches ing to stand behind the bus.” to their existing fleet, she always sugMaitland recognizes the imporTheir vehicles are far superior to many gests that they consider starting with tance of living up to client expectaothers that are on the road, but their two coaches if they can swing it betions, particularly with a weighty customer ser vice is bar-none.” – Kathy cause, in her words, “if you can book investment like a motorcoach, and one bus consistently, odds are you’ll MCI is looking to delivering superior Kahne, President of Windy City Limousine & Bus be able to book two.” Undoubtedly, service. “A huge factor in our success, this comes from her experience with and a big piece of our focus, is on our Windy City’s early days of providing coach service. service and support. After we sell a vehicle, it’s all about keeping it running “We wound up getting a contract with a casino, and we were forced and maximizing up-time. If it’s not working, operators are not earning money. to purchase several additional motorcoaches very quickly at a ‘reasonable’ We realize that companies shifting from cars to coaches may not be equipped price—unfortunately, we went down the road with a company that wasn’t in their shops to handle these large vehicles, so we will offer them service MCI,” laments Jacobs. “They eventually went out of business. We started with contract options and place an emphasis on training their maintenance staff.

MCI and then tried a cheap substitute, which brought us right back to MCI.” We also have service facilities in seven major markets across the country.”

Both MCI and Windy City are quick to refer to their business relationship Chauffeured ground transportation operators who have expanded into as a “partnership.” The two companies not only provide valuable service to the motorcoach business, like Jacobs and Windy City, are a rapidly growing one another, but also have earned each other’s respect. part of MCI’s business. “We’ve seen many operators began to ask: One, how “We go back with Windy City over 10 years,” says Brent Maitland, MCI they can expand their business, and two, how they can get better control of vice president of marketing and product planning. “They’ve been a consis- their value chain? Many companies weren’t comfortable having a lack of content and important customer to us, and they were one of the first limousine trol in their business when farming out work. So, in the past four years, we’ve

“

chauffeurdriven.com 05.2018 27

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I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

CEO George Jacobs with his personalized, custom bobblehead and model coach at Windy City’s corporate office in Broadview, Ill.

seen traditional black car operations really start to look into getting a motorcoach, with the coach having the same look, feel, and branding as their other vehicles,” says Maitland.

As limousine companies started to become a growth market for MCI, the builder anticipated that the rookies in that sector would prefer to test the waters with used coaches, but Maitland says that wasn’t necessarily the case.

“When we first started working with the limousine companies, we thought that [the industry] would tend to be focused on pre-owned coaches,” says Maitland, “but we’ve ended up putting an emphasis on both the new and pre-owned coaches.

This market is very similar to the tour and charter: Many customers want vehicles that are custom and freshly

branded to them, with warranties.”

By far, MCI’s best-seller among luxury ground transportation companies is its J4500 coach.

The 45-foot vehicle, which seats up to 56, first entered production in 2000 and has remained the number-one seller for almost 13 years, though it’s continually been updated and tweaked over its history.

“As limousine operators grow into coaches, we’ve found their needs and requirements to be a little different than what we’ve traditionally had—so we’ve set ourselves up to be flexible in order to offer new and innovative things that appeal to them,” says Maitland.

Because operators tend to worry about exterior aesthetics as much an interior amenities, Maitland says MCI spent a good deal of time learning what chauffeured transportation operators desired in a coach. Certainly every bus owner, regardless of industry, wants passenger-accessible power outlets and WiFi, but Maitland points out that the company made every effort to accommodate the needs of their new client base, whether it’s supplying custom seating, exterior branding, or interior configuration. One of the most notable adjustments was in 2015 when they shifted to an independent front suspension, thereby improving roadhandling and allowing the coach to turn tighter—which is certainly mighty valuable in cities like Chicago.

For 2018, MCI introduced a new J4500 into the market, with sweeping upgrades designed to appeal to the limousine market. “When we set out to do the project, we saw a trend toward customization. So we looked to our customer requests as well as what’s happening in the automotive sector, particularly in regard to our interior lighting. Also, some of the automation trends are making their way into our vehicles, such as radar-based adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation. We also refreshed our interiors to make them truly best-in-class. Compared to our competitors, in an MCI, you’re always going to get more legroom, which is really a huge driver of comfort.”

Windy City recently added one of the 2018 J4500 MCI coaches to their fleet and Jacobs couldn’t be happier with the vehicle, although it has caused a bit of strife within the company. “When we get a new MCI, our chauffeurs fight over them; they actually get in line to drive them,” jokes Jacobs. “But seriously, our chauffeurs have a lot to say about what buses we buy—and MCI is the vehicle of choice. They feel like a crown prince when they’re behind the wheel of the new MCI. They’re in the best equipment, they’re comfortable, and they know it’s reliable.”

Kahne also raves about the newest model. “The 2018 model is the sexiest motorcoach on the road right now, hands down. The redesign, with that front end and cabin— there’s no coach out there like that. And from a safety standpoint, the way they build it makes MCI one of the safest motorcoaches on the road, which is something we never take for granted.”

Being firmly entrenched in a major metropolitan city affords Windy City with the opportunity to deliver service to an increasingly wide spectrum of clients. From DMCs to corporations and schools to sports, the company takes full advantage of the immense amount of motorcoach work that’s available to them in Chicago—and beyond.

“We’ve figured out how to manage and execute large group movements with buses,” says

28 05.2018 chauffeurdriven.com

Reprinted with permission from chauffeurdriven.com

10

Kahne. “Part of it is having the equipment to do it; if you don’t have the coaches and you’re relying on others, it’s more difficult. We have the infrastructure so we’ve become the go-to company for giant group movements.”

One case in point: McCormick Place, the largest convention center in North America, located in downtown Chicago, generates a million and a half trips per year in bus work for area operators. Windy City’s vehicles are regularly seen moving convention-goers to and from the venue.

“The folks that handle McCormick Place often come to us and ask how many we can handle,” says Kahne.

“We will fill up as many buses for them as we have—we just make it work.”

The company also has secured licenses with the city of Chicago to provide transportation for the area schools’ field trips to the state capitol building in Springfield. And lest anyone think that prom work is regulated to small or upstart operators, Windy City provides motorcoach transportation for local post-prom events.

However, some of Windy City’s biggest clients include the who’s who of corporate America. Companies such as Motorola and Kraft regularly utilize the company for group moves and shuttle work, and recently Jacobs contracted with one of the world’s most recognized restaurant icons.

“We just signed a multi-million, multi-year deal with McDonalds,” reveals Jacobs. “They’re moving their corporate headquarters from Oak Brook to downtown Chicago. We’re going to be doing all the transportation

Windy City President Kathy Kahne inside their 2018 MCI J4500

for their employees from the train station downtown to their new offices.”

It’s virtually impossible to discuss Chicago without mentioning their love of sports. As it is arguably the preeminent American sports town—with no fewer than five pro sports teams—it comes as no surprise that Windy

I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

City’s coaches are as ubiquitous in sports arena parking lots as tailgating fans. Its partnerships include teams in the NCAA as well as the pros “We started with a contract with a company that handles all the NCAA championships—regardless of what sport it is—and we transport most of the teams in coaches,” says Kahne. “We also have contracts with Northwestern, Loyola, University of Chicago, Dominican University, and IIT University. “ The company also works with Anthony Travel, a university and sports travel management company that handles 200 college teams. However, it’s the work for the pros that brings Windy City a high level of L to R: Charles Gonzalez, vehicle maintenance supervisor; Lisa Wilinski, accounting manager; Erica Shor, affiliate manager; prestige. “We provide transportation for the Jerold Bean, vice president of sales & events; Brian Whitaker, bus sales; Kathy Kahne; Israel “Izzy” Cazares, fleet manager; Chicago Bears, the Bulls, the Cubs, and the George Jacobs; Michael “AJ” Jedrzejewski, chauffeur manager; Allison Kubiak, call center manager; Ryan Kaczmarski, director of White Sox,” says Jacobs, who is a regular IT & content strategy; and Erin Digioia, events supervisor fixture at many of the teams’ home games.

“Recently, I was at a White Sox game, and the owner [Jerry Reinsdorf] comes up to me and says, with us for ten years, and I’ve never met them,” ‘I got a bone to pick with you,’” recounts Jacobs. “It seems that he was out driving and he saw the Cubs confesses Jacobs. “Kathy took control and has logo on the back of our bus. He said, ‘Where’s the White Sox logo?’” worked with them, even before she was in her To which Kahne quipped: “Where’s the World Series?” current position.”

Kidding aside, Jacobs is grateful that the company has those MCIs ready and available for highKahne credits the “magicians” in Windy profile clients. “Very often we have pro teams, like the Bears, that request six identical vehicles to move City’s in-house repair and detailing shop for keeptheir players. Fortunately, we have enough MCIs that we can deliver those coaches for the players.” ing their coaches on the road and looking good.

Thanks to its partnership with the sports teams and NCAA, Windy City’s coaches commonly travel “Our mechanics work magic with those buses. far from the city limits of Chicago. “We send more and more coaches over the road,” says Jacobs. “When The things they accomplish to ensure that our vethere’s a Notre Dame home game, it’s not uncommon to see 45 of our buses at the stadium. This year, hicles are on the road each day—I don’t know how when Loyola suddenly made it to the final four, they wanted to send two coaches to San Antonio. We they do it.” sent two MCIs to take care of them, knowing the confidence we have in those buses.”

The pair is also quick to recognize the work In fact, it was a recent out-of-town event that ended up providing Windy City with a truly unforgetof Dave Lahr, director of operations. “The puzzles he solves every day would break anyone else. Just when you think we can’t eek out one more ride for a client, he makes it work. And he does this ten times, every day,” says Kahne.

“Depending on the day, you’re fearful to walk in the office. He might be in there pulling out his hair,” laughs Jacobs.

“But he’s been here from the very beginning, and we couldn’t do it without him.”

Chicago residents can count on seeing those familiar Windy City logos winding the streets for a long time, and the company looks forward to continuing their strong relationship with MCI. “We are in this together,” says Jacobs.

2018 MCI J4500 “Time and time again, MCI has worked with us creatively in ways that other bus table experience: Super Bowl LII in Minneapolis. companies aren’t willing or able to do. They’ve “Normally February is our ‘slow’ month, but this was our biggest single event ever in the history of gone beyond to be a great partner with us.” the company—and it was 400 miles away from home,” says Jacobs. “We had more than 100 vehicles: The sentiment is shared by MCI. “From my We had about 35 motorcoaches, 75 SUVs, a bunch of Sprinters, and smattering of minibuses.” He’s lookdealings with George Jacobs and Kathy Kahne, it ing forward to providing transportation for Super Bowl LIII ... even though it’s being held 700 miles away is no wonder that they’ve grown and prospered like in Atlanta. they have,” says Rich DeYoung, MCI vice president “Our buses go everywhere. Our chauffeurs have a page on Facebook, where they post pictures of of sales. “Their high standards and professionalism their location. They let us know when and where they see a Windy City bus with the hashtag #WindyCiare obvious in the way they run their business, how tyisEverywhere.” they treat their employees, and the vehicles they Jacobs recognizes that Windy City would not be anywhere without his team. Kahne essenchoose for their fleet, often opting to spend more tially serves as his right hand, and is crucial to the health of the company. She was invaluable for a premium product for their clients.” [CD] when the company was expanding into the motorcoach market. “We have an account that’s been

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MCI ANNOUNCES NO-CHARGE WARRANTY PARTS POLICY, MORE EFFICIENT PARTS ORDERING PROCESS

Effective July 30, 2018 all owners of MCI coaches under new or extended warranty may now order warranty parts free of charge by the Customer Care System (CCS- also known as iWarranty) or by phone as long as the ordering process begins prior to repair. CCS is MCI’s online warranty claim filing system. If you don’t have a CCS account and would like to join, please email warranty@ mcicoach.com to start that process.

For warranty parts phone orders, you will now need to call 800-241-2947 (select option 4) where our Warranty Team will assist you.

All failed parts requested for return must be sent back to MCI within 45 days of initial order.

If you have any questions related to this change in policy, contact your Regional Warranty Manager or email us at warranty@mcicoach.com.  12

M A I N T E N A N C E M AT T E R S

CHARGING AHEAD: KNOW YOUR STARTER INHIBIT SAFETY FEATURE Beginning with model year 2018 J4500, unit 68374, coaches with either the battery charger (part number 07-08-2627) or battery charger/ inverter (part # 07-08-7957) are equipped with a safety feature coach operators need to be aware of:

Starter Inhibit Specifically, programming on the coach prevents the starter from cranking if the onboard charger is plugged into a wayside 110V outlet. There are two reasons for this feature: 1.

Protecting the coach’s electrical system/ charger from undue demand/ voltage fluctuations.

2.

Remind the driver the charger is plugged in.

If the onboard charger is indeed plugged into a wayside 110V outlet, the dash panel will display the message, “Starter Fault.” The driver will then need to make sure that the charger is disconnected from the 110V power source before trying to start the engine.

For more information, check out the 2018 Maintenance Manual. Below is an excerpt from that manual. 

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TRAI N I NG CAM P

MCI’s full schedule of courses offered through the MCI Academy and hands-on Tech Tune-Up sessions can be found at www.mciacademy.com. This website is where you’ll find all that MCI offers to make your technicians, drivers and shop staff the industry’s best. Our online, anytime Learning Management System (LMS) modules help technicians, owners and others get to know their MCI coaches inside and out. All training opportunities are offered at no cost to MCI customers. Check out the website, mark your calendars, and make your plans. Chances are there’s a learning opportunity that’s just right for you.

Training Schedule MCI Academy Courses – MCI National Training Center, Louisville, Kentucky • August 13-17 – HVAC 301 – Specialist Diploma • August 20-24 – Electrical 401 – Specialist Diploma • August 20-24 – HVAC 401 – Specialist Diploma • August 27-31 – HVAC 201 – Specialist Diploma • August 27-31 – Tech 2A – Certificate • September 10-14 – Electrical 101 – Specialist Diploma

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• September 10-14 – HVAC 201 – Specialist Diploma • September 17-21 – Tech 2B – Certificate • September 17-21 – Electrical 201 – Specialist Diploma • September 24-28 – Tech 3 – Certificate • October 1-5 – Electrical 301 – Specialist Diploma • October 2-5 – HVAC 101 – Specialist Diploma • October 8-12 – HVAC 401 – Specialist Diploma • October 22-26 – HVAC 301 – Specialist Diploma • October 29-November 2 – Tech 2A – Certificate • October 29-November 2 – Electrical 301 – Specialist Diploma • November 5-9 – Electrical 201 – Specialist Diploma • November 5-9 – HVAC 301 – Specialist Diploma • November 12-16 – HVAC 201 – Specialist Diploma • November 26-30 – Electrical 401 – Specialist Diploma • December 3-7 – HVAC 401 – Specialist Diploma • December 10-14 – Electrical 401 – Specialist Diploma • December 10-14 – Tech 2B – Certificate

MCI Regional Technical Tune-ups – MCI Sales and Service Centers • August 14-15 – Winter Garden, Florida • September 18-19 – Hayward, California • October 16-17 – Dallas, Texas • November 6-7 – Los Alamitos, California 

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I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

National Bus Trader The Magazine of Bus Equipment for the United States and Canada Volume XLI, No. 7

June, 2018

Serving the bus industry since 1977.

Visit us at www.busmag.com.

• MCI Academy Wins Fans Across Industry • Where Are the Buses Built?

• Philippine President’s Bus • Penn Highway Transit 16

I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

MCI Academy Wins Fans Across Industr y If you need to replace retiring expertise or boost skills on your team, MCI is building the industr y’s best solution

by Pat Plodzeen Photos courtesy of MCI

S

cott Parsons is th e second-generation owner of Parsons & Sons Transportation in Conception Bay South, Newf o u n d l a n d a n d L a b r a d o r, C a n a d a . E a c h day, he oversees office and operations staff t h a t k e e p a f l e e t o f 1 6 m o t o rc o a c h e s , 2 2 school buses and five minibuses busy. Parsons has spent his life in the business, founded as a school bus operator by his father in 1962.

F o r d e d i c a t e d o p er a t o r s l i k e P a r s o n s , i t is a familiar scenario – maintenance skills are learned mostly on the job, adapting to every new model, every evolution in component design. Some mechanics arrive with heavy truck repair experience – but a heavy trru uck is not a motorcoach. Learning happens on the job.

However, as operators know, such handson knowledge is tough to pass along while running a growing business. Parsons, now 62, has been the company’s lead technical expert for the past 47 years. As he is now ready to “to pass the torch,” there is finally a n e ff i c i e n t , e ff e c t i v e w a y t o e n s u re t h a t important technical skills never leave his business: MCI Academy.

Training the next generation Parsons has enrolled Robert Dinham, a t e c h n i c i a n w h o h a s be e n e m p l o y e d b y t h e nh ham completed two firm for two years. Din week-long sessions at MCI Academy’s t r a i n i n g f a c i l i t y i n L o u i s v i l l e , K e n t u c k y.

D i n h a m h a s c o m p l e te d a d d i t i o n a l c o u r s e w o r k v i a M C I A c a d em y ’ s o n l i n e L e a r n i n g Management System (LMS) which allows h i m t h e f l e x i b i l i t y t o st u d y a n y t i m e o f t h e day or night. ”My situation makes (MCI Academy) priceless,” Parsons says, remembering the “old way” of reading MCI’s MC-8 and MC9 service manuals cover to cover. “This is much better,” he adds.

Dinham is not Parsons’ lead technician, but MCI Academy is there to prepare professionals of all skill levels for that eventual job. Says Parsons, “He has a keen interest in the industry and has been teaching other team members in our shop what he has learned. He tells us that the training is far superior to any he’s received.”

The MCI Academy has been increasingly successful in training a new generation of coach technicians. In addition to hands-on training here at the MCI facility in Louisville, Kentucky, MCI also offers their online Learning Management System. MCI recently received an award from the Automotive Training Management Council for one of their training programs.

Parsons points to other measurements of s u c c e s s : “ We a re a l re a d y s e e i n g p o s i t i v e re s u l t s w i t h q u i c k e r d i a g n o s t i c s , a l e s s stressed and happier worker and associated savings. We are happy to be part of the (MCI) program,” said Parsons, who plans to send other members of his team to the Academy in the future.

in length, that cover virtually all systems and components found on MCI coaches.

Each module includes a quiz at the end that issues a certificate once the student passes the training. Most modules are intended for technicians, but several are designed to benefit drivers and other personnel. LMS courses are free of charge to MCI operators.

First on the web and in the classroom MCI was an early adopter of online technical instruction, launching a twice-monthly w e b i n a r s e r i e s i n 2 0 0 8 . A ro u n d t h e s a m e time, MCI began to offer Technical Tune-Up sessions taught by company technical experts at the Louisville-based locati on of MCI’s parts distribution facility, and its technical and roadside assistance call centers.

ASE accreditation – only MCI MCI Academy combines its classroom i n s t ru c t i o n , t e s t i n g a n d L M S c o u r s e s f o r a multifaceted training experience. The Academy allows technicians to achieve system qualifications, Technician Levels 1, 2 and 3 Certification and specialty diplomas in HVAC and electrical systems.

In 2015, MCI launched Learning Mana g e me n t S y s t em t o g i v e t e c h n i c i a n s a c o n venient, comprehensive and customizable training resource available online 24/7. LMS i s comp r i s e d o f m odu l e s , mo st 1 5 min u t e s

This unusual and deep mix of educational programming earned MCI Academy the motorcoach industry’s first accreditation from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), responsible for the r i g o ro u s C o n t i n u i n g A u t o m o t i v e S e r v i c e National Bus Trader / June, 2018 • 15

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Scott Crawford, center, accepts the award from the Automotive Training M a n a g e r s C o u n c i l t h a t n a m e d M C I ’s H VA C 1 0 1 c u r r i c u l u m t h e Grand Award Winner in their 2017 ATMC National Excellence in Training program.

Education (CASE) standards. In earning the ASE accreditation, MCI stands with an elite group including 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division, BMW of North America, General Motors Service Technical College, Toyota and Penske Truck Leasing.

This past fall, the MCI Academy also scored a top technician training award on its first try. The Automotive Training Managers Council (ATMC) named MCI Acade m y ’ s H VA C 1 0 1 c u r r i c u l u m t h e G r a n d Award winner in its 2017 ATMC National Excellence in Training program, recognizing MCI’s interior heating and cooling systems training as one of the most innovative in the motorcoach industry.

MCI’s HVAC 101 is part of a four-week Specialist Diploma program to provide technicians with all the knowledge and skills on a system that is key to passengers’ comfort.

MCI’s live HVAC coursework begins with the basics and progresses to advanced diagnostics “while incorporating all the best practices for developm ent and delivery of training,” according to ATMC.

Fullington Trailways in Clearfield, Pennsylvania has benefitted from MCI’s HVAC training at the Academy. This training was a big help to some of their new, younger technicians and has reduced the number of HVAC issues.

can b e costly in t erms of time, money and passenger loyalty.

training over the next three years through the MCI Academy.

Team inexperience with HVAC systems l e a d s t o t o o m u c h t i m e p a g i n g t h ro u g h manuals or seeking phone assistance, and dedicated MCI Academy training has produced a “tremendous reduction in HVAC i s s u e s h e re , ” s a y s B e r z a s . Tr a i n i n g a l s o provides a bonding experience for technicians, he says. “Two of the five technicians w o r k a t o u r o t h e r l o c a t i o n s , a n d n ow t h e y go back and forth with sidebar conversat i o n s re l y i n g o n e a c h o t h e r o n h o w t o f i x and repair systems,” said Berzas. His ultimate goal is to see that all of his technicians acquire HVAC and electrical system

“What MCI is doing is invaluable. Even if a new hire is a diesel mechanic, that person likely trained on trucks, not motorcoaches,” e x p l a i n s B e r z a s . “ I t ’ s re a l l y i m p o r t a n t t o know how systems work on motorcoaches because they are more complex. I still want them to go through the full on-site classes.

You learn more when you’re there. And you have to have good teachers. Our plan is to tie new-hire, 90-day probation and annual pay increases to passing courses.”

Fullington is one of the oldest transportation companies in the United States,

MCI training is also available online. Online training was initially offered in 2008 and that grew into MCI’s Learning Management System that is available 24/7. It is comprised of training modules that cover a wide range of topics for technicians, drivers as well as others and are available free of charge to MCI operators.

Fullington Trailways: Knowing the connection between well-trained technicians and fleet productivity J o n a t h a n B e r z a s , p re s i d e n t o f T h e Fullington Trailways, Clearfield, Pennsylvania, knows exactly how his operations have benefited from HVAC training at the Academy.

“We’ve lost a couple of our senior guys to retirement and find ourselves with technicians at all different skill levels, including newer, younger technicians,” said Berzas who has a 15-member technical team at four central Pennsylvania locations servicing 77 m o t o rc o a c h e s a n d f i v e l i m o u s i n e s , s e v e n v a n s a n d 2 2 1 s c h o o l b u s e s . Wi t h a b u s y schedule serving tour operators, student and group charter planning for travel throughout the U.S. and Canada, HVAC breakdowns 16 • National Bus Trader / June, 2018

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marking its 110th anniversary this year. It joined Trailways in 1981 and is owned and o p e r a t ed b y f o u r th g e n e r a t i o n m e m b e r s o f the Fullington family.

Coursework evolves, attendance grows “ A s t h e d e s i g n a n d s y s t e m s o n m o t o rcoaches continues to advance, our goal is t o o ff e r t h e i n d u s t r y ’ s b e s t t r a i n i n g option,” said Scott Crawford, MCI technical training manager. Crawford has a 15y e a r c a re e r w i t h M C I , w h e re h e h a s b e e n leading MCI’s technical training division

f o r t h e p a s t 1 0 y e a r s , w i t h p r i o r p o si t i o n s in technical and parts support representation. He is responsible for establishing the MCI Academy. Prior to joining MCI, Crawford was director of maintenance for Antel o p e Va l l e y B u s , a n d w e s t e r n r e g i o n a l maintenance manager for Coach USA. He also serve d in the United State Navy for eight years as a construction mechanic and instructor.

“Our operators have told us that attracting top technicians is a top business

Shown here is one of the groups recently completing training at the MCI Academy. Back row left to right: Anton Atanassov, MCI; Andrew Garcia, USD 457 Transportation; Curtis Brooks, Anchor Transportation; Bill Pfeifer, MCI; Evan McIntire, Quick Livick; Trevor Branco, The Free Enterprise System. Front row left to right: David Moncada, MCI and Kenny Ware, MCI.

need and MCI’s expanding, multi-subject curriculum has proven to be successful in e l e v a t i n g t h e s k i l l l ev e l s o f t e c h n i c i a n s i n a very short amount of time,” he said.

W h e t h e r p u b l i c o r p r i v a t e o p e r a t o r s a re l a rg e o r s m a l l , t h e f l e x i b i l i t y o f M C I ’ s o n l i n e a n d o n - s i t e co u r s e w o r k m a k e s a l l t h e d i ff e re n c e .

Today, MCI’s Learning Management System has 11,000 registered users including technicians, drivers and staff with a growing library of more than 450 courses including the HVAC curriculum and training in electrical systems and clean-diesel engine regeneration procedures. Enrollment is growing.

To date, more than 1,600 professionals have been trained in MCI’s onsite Tech Tune-Up program with more than 55,000 LMS courses completed online.

Tr a i n i n g t h a t h e l p s i d e n t i f y, t r a i n a n d retain next-generation talent "Our entire course catalog is structured in such a way that you can create a career path for a technician by levels of advancement.” says Crawford. MCI customizes an educational track for each account with a sophisticated measurement and reporting component. Operators and their maintenance directors can create their own education plan by requiring technicians to take courses specific to company needs and goals.

The system keeps track of technicians’ courses, the number of courses taken and test scores. Managers can also see how many times a technician has taken a particular test to pass. Good technicians are hard to find, but MCI Academy helps operators develop their own technician teams.

Here are more technicians recently completing training at the MCI Academy. Left to right: Tom Renae, MCI; Dennis Walker, MCI; Kyle Strole, Miller Transportation; Julian Castaneda, Dallas Service Center; John Tressler, Buckeye Charter and Mike Richardson, Free Enterprise.

Gene Wordekemper, director of maintenance at Arrow Stage Lines, was one of the f i r s t t o t e st o u t t h e M C I ’ s L M S s y s t e m . F o r Arrow’s technicians, MCI LMS has represented a convenient way to meet their employer's requirement of 40 hours of continuing education a year. It is an ongoing w a y t o t e s t t e c h n i c i a n p ro f i c i e n c y, m a k e improvements and assess technicians' commitment to their careers.

"I was looking for a system to incentivize my guys, to let them know the steps they need to climb," says Wordekemper. "There's n ot hing b et t er t han se nding t echnicians to Louisville for a week of hands-on MCI training, but picking the ones who should go is difficult. With LMS, I can see which technicians have that can-do attitude, and those are the ones you send to training because they're engaged. The bang for the buck is going to be instant."

Wordekemper also values the system for its ability to show technicians the steps they need to complete to earn merit pay increases.

It also helps his in-house trainer by identif y i n g a n y o f h i s s t a ff ' s w e a k s p o t s . S a y s National Bus Trader / June, 2018 • 17

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I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

Scott Parsons of Parsons & Sons Transportation in Newfoundland has been using the MCI Academy to “pass the torch” and effectively train new technicians from his company.

Hands-on training for the MCI Academy is provided at the MCI facility in Louisville, Kentucky. However, the online Learning Management System can be accessed by computer.

Wordekemper, "MCI is leading the pack with t h i s . N o o n e e l s e i s d o i n g w h a t t h e y ' re doing – not even close."

MCI goes to school, too MCI taps the Academy to train its own technicians employed by MCI Sales and Service Centers in the U.S. and Canada. Marcin Wojcik, who joined MCI Sales and Service Center in Des Plaines, Illinois, last year after leaving the military, said he was drawn to MCI for the opportuni ty to work on diesel systems. He completed his Level 3 certificat i o n t h ro u g h t h e A c a d e m y a n d p l a n s o n completing HVAC and electrical systems course work as well.

When MCI opened its new San Francisco Bay Area Sales and Service Center in Hayward, California, this past fall, the facility’s technicians – all locally based diesel mechanic trainees – completed nearly a month of MCI Academy training. Crawford sees a day when the Academy becomes the premier destination for new and seasoned professionals to become “master” technicians.

Spreading the word MCI is developing a comprehensive campaign to promote the benefits of the Academy throughout the motorcoach industry.

During UMA Expo 2018, Crawford led an e d u c at i o n a l s e s s i o n o n M C I A c a d e m y a n d how operators could use the resource to create a career path for mechanics and staff with

technical training, systems and specialty coursework. He also emphasized the Acade m y ’ s v a l u e a s a w a y t o m e a s u re p e r f o rmance as part of technician recruitment and retention.

MCI Academy’s multi-brand approach m e a n s i t s m i s s i o n w i l l s e r v e t h e e n t i re motorcoach industry. Enabling technicians t o q u i c k l y d i a g n o s e a n d re p a i r p ro b l e m s keep businesses in business no matter what t heir size. MCI is not only t raining t oday’s technicians; it is securing jobs for a brighter future.

To l e a r n m o r e , o r t o r e g i s t e r f o r M C I A c a d e m y p r o g r a m s v i s i t w w w. mciacademy.com. ❑

Other recent attendees at the MCI Academy included technicians from Fullington Trailways. Left to right: Evan McIntire, Quick Livick; Jim Holt, Corinth Charters; Chuck Cassick, Fullington Trailways; Jay Keller, Jefferson Bus Lines and Jaso n Blessel, Fullington Trailways.

18 • National Bus Trader / June, 2018

Reprinted with permission from National Bus Trader

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Experience accessibility on a whole new level Newly reimagined, the MCIÂŽ D45 CRT LE for Commuter Rapid Transit warmly welcomes all passengers, creating an innovative low-entry vestibule with a ramp and adjoining seating area designed with mobility device users in mind. Beyond game-changing accessibility features to speed entry and exit, the all-new model offers modern good looks and the amenities that commuters have come to expect from MCI, including comfortable forward-facing seats, power outlets, parcel racks and Wi-Fi options, plus the sturdy reliability that has long made the MCI commuter coach the leading choice for commuter express.

Reliable. Rapid. Revolutionary.

Get it soon in 100% electric Learn more at future-of-commuting.com 21

PR O D U C T S & S ERV I C E S

NORTH AMERICA’S # 1 MOTOR COACH ON THE ROAD WITH BATTERY-ELECTRIC

MCI J4500e REACHES HIGHWAY SPEED AND RELIABILITY TARGETS IN TEST RUNS, SIGNALS MCI’S LEADERSHIP MOVE INTO ALL-ELECTRIC DRAWING ON NEW FLYER EXPERTISE MCI has announced that its all-electric J4500e prototype successfully completed its phase one testing. The coach ran flawlessly at both low and high speeds up to a sustained 70 mph on the highway. The all-electric J4500e coach is on schedule for January 2020 production and orders are being taken now.

The electric architecture incorporated in the MCI J4500e features a high-torque Siemens 2130 LB FT electric drive system with a planned range to meet long-distance applications, Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery at 450 kWh with high power plugin battery charging to 100% in under three hours. MCI will also apply its battery-electric 22

platform to the D45 CRT LE Commuter Coach followed by the electric 35-foot, MCI J giving operators the most comprehensive choices in purpose-built, all-electric coaches.

J4500 coach leads in curb appeal inside and out. From best-in-class legroom and slim-styled seating options to Wi-Fi and easy-access power outlets and overhead lighting, MCI makes distance travel both productive and relaxing.

MCI President Ian Smart said: “We foresee our all-electric J4500e as the next frontier for MCI, with our MCI D45 CRT LE offering the same electric propulsion platform. Our customers will also have attractive electric charging options with MCI – they can work with us on standard depot charging, on-route systems or a multicharge design.”

The D45 CRT LE also stands as the industry’s most accessible coach ever, featuring a mid-door and patent-pending low entry vestibule with seating that speeds boarding for all passengers, including those with mobility devices.

Where to learn more MCI’s all-electric J4500e will be on display during its August 6 Reliability Rally at the new San Francisco Bay Area MCI Sales and Service Center in Hayward, California. At the same time, MCI and New Flyer invite operators to consider a visit to Anniston, Alabama, home to the new Vehicle Innovation Center (VIC).

Mr. Smart explained that optional choices are attractive because charging access still varies by community and route requirements. “Thanks to New Flyer’s and MCI’s complementary experience in electric, MCI is set to offer the most reliable, comfortable, efficient and passengerfriendly electric coaches to private and public operators anywhere in North America. Our customers expect workhorse performance, and we will deliver it,” he said.

The VIC is the first-of-its-kind innovation lab dedicated to the exploration and development of future motor coach and transit bus technology, along with electric drive trains and power supply systems that are available now for demonstration and display. If you’re interested in visiting the VIC, please contact your MCI sales representative. 

Next-generation comfort and amenities in a greener package Expect the reliable, all-electric MCI J4500e to have styling and comfort features to match. The

At the VIC grand opening on October 12, 2017 23

I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

This all new low entry ADA compliant automated retractable (6:1) sloped ramp rated to 1,000 lbs., allows for easy onboarding and off boarding for a full range of mobility devices, including motorized wheelchairs and scooters.

Kelly Buckland, NICL’s Executive Director praised MCI for seeking user input in advance and during the development, and compliments the model for its “many advantages over standard high-floor motor coaches used in commuter express and scheduled route service,” he said.

MCI’s new D45 CRT LE Commuter Coach Checks All the Boxes for Accessibility, Passenger Comfort and Operational Reliability

The passenger profile is changing. Studies show younger riders are deferring car purchases until they have families and affordable homes, often far from city centers, and demand more amenities from their commuting experience. Older workers are extending their careers, but sometimes face mobility challenges as they age.

For transit agencies evaluating these demographic changes and seeking accessibility efficiency, MCI has a solution with a new kind of commuter coach: the MCI D45 CRT LE. The MCI D45 CRT LE is unlike any model the North American motor coach leader has designed. Handling highway and local routes with ease, reliability and low cost of operation, transit agencies testing the CRT LE are already giving the model high marks for its comfort and revolutionary design for speedy accessibility for all passengers.

The new D45 CRT LE features a mid-door, curb-level ramp that leads directly into a same-level patent pending Low Entry (LE) vestibule with seating to accommodate five passengers or two passengers boarding with wheelchairs, or other mobility devices.

Additionally, the forward-door entry opens to an ergonomicallydesigned spiral entryway that’s well lit and features supportive grab rails. This combined ease-of-entry technology is expected to cut the considerable dwell time of traditional lifts, matching boarding times of low floor transit.

A design process unlike any to date MCI’s design process featured a full user experience for all riders, including those using mobility devices. Design engineers focused on accessibility, riding and exit experience completely from the passenger perspective, mapping the journey from waiting to board, entering the coach, securing and exiting. Brent Maitland, MCI’s Vice President of Marketing and Product Planning, described the process as “some of the most comprehensive user testing we’ve ever done. We are grateful to our participants for their time, feedback, evaluation and design acceptance.”

In the design phase, MCI involved volunteers from the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) and the American Association for People with Disabilities (AAPD) in evaluating, developing and validating the concept from 32 alternative concepts. Those focus groups favored the second door/curb level ramp entry 8 to 1 over traditional boarding methods.

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Workhorse durability for systems, comfort for passengers As regional residential patterns change – with people moving outside central cities in search of more affordable housing and other living attractions –commuter coaches like the MCI D45 CRT LE are filling an expanding need for route flexibility and comfort at highway speeds.

Many conventional buses are not designed for high-speed commuter rapid transit (CRT) routes, and they often lack the in-cabin comfort of a high floor coach. Increasingly, passengers accustomed to instant digital connections– want Wi-Fi access, power outlets and comfort seating that can accommodate work or relaxation for long distances.

That’s why the new MCI D45 CRT LE features comfortable, forwardfacing seating for 54 passengers, or 52 when there are two passengers with mobility devices onboard, with passenger amenities including LED reading lights, individual air-flow controls, along with optional power outlets and Wi-Fi connectivity.

One major metropolitan area transit system testing the vehicle with its passengers recorded a 93 percent approval rating with specific praise for the coach’s comfort and ease of entry and exit and its spacious vestibule area. “Our D-Series has been the workhorse of commuter express for decades, but the D45 CRT LE is a groundbreaking design that meets the needs of public transit systems, both now and into the future,” said Tom Wagner, Vice President MCI Public Sector. “Passengers ride it and love it. The CRT LE is giving the widest range of passengers a quality commuting experience they’ve never experienced before.”

MCI will showcase the model on May 7 during APTA 2018 Bus and Paratransit conference, Tampa Marriott Waterside, Tampa, Fl, and during the company’s annual Reliability Rallies taking place this summer at MCI Sales and Service Centers in the U.S. Canada. The D45 CRT LE will also be on display at NICL’s 2018 Annual Conference on Independent Living, July 23-26 at the Grand Hyatt, Washington, D.C. The D45 CRT LE is slated as one of MCI’s first all-electric vehicles to be available by 2020 featuring electric technology and a high-torque Siemens 2130 LB FT., Electric Drive System that will meet the demands of long distance route systems.

MAY 2018 BUSRIDE | A R E W E R E A L LY A C H I E V I N G E Q U A L A C C E S S F O R A L L ?

Reprinted with permission from Busride

24

busride.com

I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

The new D45 CRT LE features a mid-door, curb-level ramp that leads directly into a same-level patent pending Low Entry (LE) vestibule with seating to accommodate five passengers or two passengers boarding with wheelchairs, or other mobility devices. Additionally, the forward-door entry opens to an ergonomicallydesigned spiral entryway that’s well lit and features supportive grab rails. This combined ease-of-entry technology is expected to cut the considerable dwell time of traditional lifts, matching boarding times of low floor transit.

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I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

MCI MARKS ITS 85TH ANNIVERSARY WITH BIGGEST RELIABILITY RALLY PRODUCT ROLLOUT EVER.

LUXURY, A SMALLER SIZE J, ACCESSIBILITY, ALL-ELECTRIC AND EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS HEADLINE MCI CUSTOMER EVENTS THROUGHOUT NORTH AMERICA FROM JULY THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2018 DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS, JUNE 22, 2018: (TSX:NFI) Motor Coach Industries (MCI), the U.S. subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., ("NFI"), the largest transit bus and motor coach manufacturer and parts distributor in North America, history began with an 11-passenger body welded to a Packard chassis back in 1933. Starting in July, MCI, now the industry leader building the two best selling models, is bringing its largest product line ever to the MCI Reliability Rallies throughout the U.S. and Canada this summer. Here's what's coming to the Rallies at all MCI Sales and Service

locations: • It's the first chance to test drive the 35foot version of the industry's best selling J4500 – featuring the favored J-coach luxury in a smaller size with an added bonus of seating for up to 44 passengers, best-in-class payload and parts commonality with the reliability leader.

• A first look at the 2019 MCI J4500 unveils a swing radiator and e-Fan (electric cooling fan) system, plus next-generation Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) innovations only from

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I N C A S E YO U M I S S E D I T.

MCI that follow the enhanced interior updates to the 2018 J4500.

"We look forward to our Reliability Rally open houses over the summer because it's the best time of the year to get together with customers, hear their needs and show them what we've been working on," said Patricia Ziska, MCI Vice President of New Coach Sales. "But there's never been a bigger Reliability Rally year than 2018 thanks to the sheer range of MCI and partner products and supplier services on display as we celebrate our coach-building anniversary.

We're inviting our customers to bring their staff, mechanics, drivers and family members. The event schedule includes something for everyone to enjoy."

• The all-accessible MCI D45 CRT LE, unveiled last fall, has made news for its revolutionary low-entry and vestibule seating that cut dwell times and boosted passenger accessibility with successful test runs where 93 percent of riders approved of the nextgeneration D-Series design. See what it can do for both public and private fleets.

• New Flyer and ARBOC buses. In late 2017, MCI parent NFI Group purchased ARBOC Specialty Vehicles, a pioneer and North American leader in low-floor, body-on-chassis "cutaway" buses. See models from this productive partnership.

Remember that every Reliability Rally arrives with special discounts on pre-owned coaches, parts, and service. And in addition, there's also great food, music, prize drawings and fun for everyone.

• NFI Parts — Bigger and Better. Over the past two years, MCI has strengthened and grown its parts offerings through New Flyer and representatives will be ready to answer questions onsite.

The dates and locations are as follows: Tuesday, July 10, Winter Garden, FL; Thursday, July 19, Blackwood, NJ; Tuesday, July 24, Des Plaines, IL; Monday, August 6, San Francisco Bay Area location, Hayward, CA; Tuesday, August 14, Los Alamitos, CA; Thursday, September 6, Montreal, Canada; and Thursday, September 13, Dallas, TX.

• Experience an MCI Academy educational session on how to increase shop efficiency. It is the industry's only program to win accreditation by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), representing the standard in technical training tailored to the specific needs of the motor coach industry.

For details and registration, visit www.mcicoach. com/rally. 

• Attendees will also hear about MCI's development of all electric coaches.

27

See for yourself what makes MCI models and service best-in-class It’s our 85th birthday! Help us celebrate our past, present and future, and be one of the first to discover our latest model innovations, service upgrades and more.

Bring your teams for lunch, prize drawings, parts discounts and educational opportunities.

IT’S GOING TO BE BIG!

Be among the first to test-ride the industryleading J3500 coach

Check out 2019 modelyear updates to the best-selling MCI J4500, now featuring a fuelsaving, easy to service, swing out radiator and eFan system, along with optional Advance Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)—only available from MCI

See our new D45 CRT LE with revolutionary accessibility and experience a test drive Check out the best low-floor transit bus

Take advantage of MCI Academy training opportunities, and parts specials

RELIABILITY RALLY SCHEDULE

July 10 Tuesday, Winter Garden, FL

July 19 Thursday, Blackwood, NJ

July 24 Tuesday, Learn about the all-electric platform coming to both MCI J4500 and D45 CRT LE models

Discover a leader in cutaway buses

Find deals on pre-owned coaches, plus discounts on service and parts

For full details and registration, visit mcicoach.com/rally 28

Des Plaines, IL

August 6 Monday,

San Francisco Bay Area Hayward, CA

August 14 Tuesday, Los Alamitos, CA

September 6 Thursday, Montreal, Canada

September 13 Thursday, Dallas, TX

MCI THANKS ITS 2018 RELIABILITY RALLY SPONSORS

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MCI SPONSORS NEW ABA DRIVER OF THE YEAR AWARD A driver’s passion for safety, equipment care and overall passenger care contribute to the travel experience. Now there’s a way to honor the best drivers in the industry.

MCI has partnered with the ABA to create the Driver of the Year Award to recognize an individual driver who has gone above and beyond the performance of his or her duties as an over the road motor coach driver. This award will be presented during ABA’s 2019 Annual Meeting & Marketplace in Louisville, Kentucky.

Anyone can nominate a driver based on the following criteria for each nominee: • Must be employed as an over-the-road motor coach driver by an ABA Member (full- or part-time) • Have a minimum of 10-years cumulative experience driving an over-the-road motor coach • No felony convictions • No driving violations in the past three years (excluding form and manner violations) • No chargeable accident for a minimum of 10 years. Non-chargeable incidents or incidental accidents (bumpers, mirrors) do not count against a nominee.

Nomination forms are available on the ABA website and must be submitted to the Bus Industry Safety Council by September 30, 2018. Completed nomination forms can be emailed to bisc@buses.org.

Entrants must supply supporting documentation for their nominees, including a 3-year history of the nominee’s motor vehicle record (MVR) and customer testimonial letters on behalf of the nominee.

The award will be announced January 26, 2019. 

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Get a Closer Look at an MCI

Pre-Owned Coach It’s time to drive for success with MCI.

With a wide range of inventory including quality, affordable pre-owned MCI coaches, many with a limited warranty and ready to roll,” MCI is here to help you boost capacity, uptime and profitability.

There are a lot of places to get a used bus. But there’s only one place to get a or pre-owned coach—and that’s from MCI. Invest in the best.

Price quoted is in U.S. dollars and does not include any applicable sales or excise tax, title, license, documentation or environmental fees or handling charges. All coaches are available for, and subject to, immediate sale to the first qualified buyer. © MCI Sales and Service, Inc. 2018, All Rights Reserved

2007 MCI J4500

2006 MCI J4500

DDl, Allison, 56 Seats with foldup armrests, 6 monitor system with DVD. VIN #64324.

Only $165,000!

Walter Sturdivant Mid-Atlantic (609) 876-3713

Randy Wilcox Northeast (609) 876-3711

Bob Dethloff Midwest (847) 867-5191

Brian LIchter North-Central (224) 688-6351

Brian Hill South-Central (214) 725-0490

Janet Cathey Southeast (678) 472-1743

Marshall Deems West Coast (818) 519-7193

Jason Rounsaville Rocky Mountain (720) 383-5797

DD, ZF, 56 Seats with foldup armrest, 6 monitor video system VIN #63261.

Only $155,000!

Find our latest news and offers:

Check out our Pre-owned Coach website

mcicoach.com/preowned

2011 MCI D4505

Guy Charron Eastern Canada (514) 240-8448

i

SPY

Chad Sadowy Western Canada (204) 227-1616

2010 MCI J4500

DDl, Allison, 51 Seats, 6 monitor video system DD, ZF, 56 Seats w/foldup armrests, 6 monitor with DVD, Tire Monitoring System. VIN #59807. video system with DVD, Tire Monitoring System. VIN #65534. Only $170,000!

Only 275,000!

Have a great picture of your MCI coach in a fabulous location? How about historical MCI photos? Send us what you have and we may use it in the next FYI from MCI! Send submissions to fyi@mcicoach.com www.mcicoach.com

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The long and short of reliability.

Introducing the 2019 J4500 and J3500 At MCI, we know that groups come in all different sizes. That’s why we now offer a 35-foot version of our best-selling J-Series coach. Impressive inside and out, both the J3500 and 45-foot J4500 offer best-in-class interior features, a smooth-riding suspension and leading ADAS (Advance Driver Assistance Systems) only from MCI. Add in great parts commonality, superior build quality, and an unsurpassed service and support network, these are the coaches that make MCI the top choice for driving your business.

Discover the lengths we go to be Reliability Driven™ for you.

Visit mcicoach.com/J-Series