By Rick Mullen,
Busline Magazine Associate Editor

The following import/export categories include motor buses, coaches, trolley buses and gyrobuses.

The U.S. Department of Commerce, Economics and Statistics Administration, U.S. Census Bureau trade figures for November 2021 indicated vehicle imports were up in four categories outlined, compared to November 2020. For the first 11 months of 2021, vehicles imports were down in six categories, compared to the first 11 months of 2020.

The United States imported 100 vehicles in November 2021, down 32 percent from 148 vehicles for November 2020. For the first 11 months of 2021, the United States imported 962 vehicles, down 33 percent from 1,438 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

Canada sent 885 vehicles to the United States during the first 11 months of 2021.

The average price per vehicle for November 2021 was $331,345, up 27 percent from $261,308 for November 2020. The average price per vehicle for the first 11 months of 2021 was $310,301, up 10 percent from $282,676 for the first 11 months of 2020.

The United States received one vehicle in November 2021, down 50 percent from two vehicles during November 2020. For the first 11 months of 2021, the United States imported 38 vehicles, down 74 percent from 144 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

The United States imported 33 vehicles from Canada during the first 11 months of 2021.

The price of the vehicle for November 2021 was $70,853, down 80 percent from the average price of $359,489 for November 2020. The average price per vehicle for the first 11 months of 2021 was $124,119, up 66 percent from $74,728 for the first 11 months of 2020.

The United States imported 7 vehicles during November 2021, down 46 percent from 13 vehicles for November 2020. During the first 11 months of 2021, 139 vehicles were imported, down 33 percent from 208 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

All of the vehicles were imported from Canada during the first 11 months of 2021.

The average price per vehicle for November 2021 was $344,206, up 24 percent from $277,965 for November 2020. The average price for the first 11 months of 2021 was $263,317, up 5 percent from $251,077 for the first 11 months of 2020.

8702303100 Public-Transport Type Passenger Motor Vehicles With Spark Ignition Internal Combustion Piston Engine And Electric Motor For 16 Or More Persons

The United States imported no vehicles in this category during November 2021 or November 2020. One vehicle was imported during the first 11 months of 2021, compared to six vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

The one vehicle for the first 11 months of 2021 was imported from the United Kingdom.

The price of the vehicle imported during the first 11 months of 2021 was $10,835, compared to the average price of $113,207 for the first 11 months of 2020.

8702306100 Public-Transport Type Passenger Motor Vehicles With Both Spark Ignition Internal Combustion Piston Engine and Electric Motor for 10 to 15 Persons

The United States imported one vehicle during November 2021, at a price of $10,679, compared to no vehicles for November 2020. During the first 11 months of 2021, two vehicles were received, compared to four vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

The two vehicles for the first 11 months of 2021 were imported from the United Kingdom.

The average price for the first 11 months of 2021 was $17,687, up from $6,922 for the average price during the first 11 months of 2020.

The United States imported 25 vehicles during November 2021, compared to six vehicles for November 2020. During the first 11 months of 2021, 228 vehicles were received, up 69 percent from 135 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

China shipped 104 vehicles during the first 11 months of 2021.

The average price per vehicle for November 2021 was $166,040, down 58 percent from $394,935 for November 2020. The average price for the first 11 months of 2021 was $211,090, down 5 percent from $222,016 for the first 11 months of 2020.

The United States imported five vehicles during November 2021, compared to no vehicles for November 2020. During the first 11 months of 2021, 97 vehicles were imported, up 31 percent from 74 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

China sent 89 vehicles during the first 11 months of 2021.

The average price per vehicle for November 2021 was $23,170. The average price for the first 11 months of 2021 was $10,634, up 13 percent from $9,372 for the first 11 months of 2020.

The United States imported 109 vehicles during November 2021, up 73 percent from 63 vehicles for November 2020. During the first 11 months of 2021, 1,198 vehicles were received, down less than 1 percent from 1,199 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

Canada sent 1,196 vehicles to the United States during the first 11 months of 2021.

The average price per vehicle for November 2021 was $97,467, up 36 percent from $71,495 for November 2020. The average price per vehicle for the first 11 months of 2021 was $101,071, up 14 percent from $88,287 for the first 11 months of 2020.

8702906100 Motor Vehicles For The Transport Of 10 To 15 Persons Including Driver, NESOI

The United States imported 42 vehicles during November 2021, down 41 percent from 71 vehicles for November 2020. During the first 11 months of 2021, 749 vehicles were received, up 8 percent from 691 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

Canada sent 709 vehicles to the United States during the first 11 months of 2021.

The average price per vehicle for November 2021 was $40,235, down 3 percent from $41,351 for November 2020. The average price per vehicle for the first 11 months of 2021 was $40,829, down 6 percent from $43,604 for the first 11 months of 2020.

Export totals for November 2021 were up in two categories, compared to November 2020. Three categories reported decreases for the first 11 months of 2021, compared to the first 11 months of 2020.

The United States exported 608 vehicles during November 2021, up less than 1 percent from 606 vehicles for November 2020. During the first 11 months of 2021, 5,631 vehicles were sent, down 15 percent from 6,618 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

Canada received 2,829 vehicles during the first 11 months of 2021, while Mexico imported 1,787 vehicles.

The average price per vehicle for November 2021 was $47,570, down 20 percent from $59,560 for November 2020. The average price per vehicle for the first 11 months of 2021 was $54,122, down 22 percent from $69,302 for the first 11 months of 2020.

8702200000 Public-Transport Vehicles With Both Compression-Ignition Internal Combustion Piston Engine (Diesel Or Semi-Diesel) & Electric Motor

The United States shipped 95 vehicles in November 2021, up 9 percent from 87 vehicles for November 2020. During the first 11 months of 2021, 853 vehicles were exported, up 100 percent from 426 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

Canada received 514 vehicles during the first 11 months of 2021, while Mexico imported 207 vehicles.

The average price per vehicle for November 2021 was $72,803, up 46 percent from $49,858 for November 2020. The average price for the first 11 months of 2021 was $48,183, up 10 percent from $43,718 for the first 11 months of 2020.

8702300000 Public-Transport Type Passenger Motor Vehicles With Both Spark Ignition Internal Combustion Piston Engine & Electric Motor

The United States exported 14 vehicles in November 2021, down 65 percent from 40 for November 2020. During the first 11 months of 2021, 376 vehicles were sent, down 11 percent from 424 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

Mexico received 127 vehicles during the first 11 months of 2021.

The average price per vehicle for November 2021 was $17,397, down 19 percent from $21,474 for November 2020. The average price for the first 11 months of 2021 was $30,767, up 7 percent from $28,849 for the first 11 months of 2020.

8702400000 Public-Transport Type Passenger Motor Vehicles With Only Electric Motor For Propulsion

The United States shipped 18 vehicles in November 2021, compared to 264 vehicles for November 2020. During the first 11 months of 2021, 502 vehicles were exported, compared to 2,124 vehicles for the first 11 months of 2020.

Canada received 464 vehicles during the first 11 months of 2021.

The average price per vehicle for November 2021 was $131,855, compared to $32,954 for November 2020. The average price per vehicle for the first 11 months of 2021 was $56,498, up 50 percent from $37,762 for the first 11 months of 2020.

Click on statistics to open .pdf file

ABC Completes Long Distance Road Trip Test With Van Hool CX45E

“ABC Companies, a leading provider of motorcoach, transit and specialty passenger transport vehicles in the USA and Canada, has recently completed an unprecedented long-distance road trip with customer, MTRWestern a leading charter bus, and shuttle transport company serving the Pacific Northwest. ABC Companies provided a new 100 percent battery-electric Van Hool CX45E motorcoach – to facilitate the pilot program road test. This demonstration unit is the same make and model ABC began delivering to customers in early 2021, and is used for ongoing data collection and performance benchmarking with customer specific applications, according to the company.

“The demonstration covered nearly 1,700 miles round trip. Starting in Newark, CA, to the destination in Seattle, WA, and then returning to Newark, CA. During several legs of the journey, various MTRWestern passenger groups experienced a unique trip aboard the 100 percent battery-electric Van Hool CX45E, traveling to destinations throughout northern California and the Pacific Northwest. Given the extended distance of this demonstration, existing publicly available charging stations were used along the route. The motorcoach averaged 280 miles of total projected range between charges over the course of the trip, with some legs projecting well in excess of 300 miles. These ranges while in commercial operation, are continuing to raise the bar for EV commercial passenger vehicles, and reflect what is available now through ABC Companies. This demonstration was also designed to test the viability of charging stations along a typical route. The data and learning focused on equipment performance and commercial grid access. Charging stations were available at regular intervals with plenty of range to spare, although several locations were not designed to readily accommodate larger passenger vehicles. While the chargers were fully capable of recharging the Van Hool CX45E, it is clear the physical layouts of many stations were not prepared for the pace at which ABC is deploying these unique vehicles into the market. Charging times were shorter than projected, averaging 2.5 to 3 hours, as the vehicle never used more than 65 percent of the available battery on each leg of the trip, due to the energy density of the standard Proterra Powered battery packs.

“With this leap forward in EV passenger range, Roman Cornell, ABC president/CCO was asked if there were any plans to formally set or announce EV distance records, “Between the almost 1700 miles of total round-trip distance covered, and with some legs of the trip projecting over 300 miles between charges, we were asked multiple times if we should apply for a ‘world record.’ The reality is, we continue to beat our own records as we transport the CX45E and the upcoming Van Hool TDX25E double deck across country ,utilizing the existing publicly available grid. Our customers who have the CX45E in their fleets also continue to see increases in range as their drivers improve the ability to manage energy usage. We utilize real time telematics measuring everything from energy consumption, charge rates, vehicle performance and more, so we are able to work with our customers and continually improve energy consumption and therefore range. Our continued success with the Proterra Powered electric drivetrain just keeps pushing the current boundaries for zero emissions motorcoach travel, making claims or records, somewhat irrelevant. These coaches perform as stated, period.

“Specifically designed for large group transport and travel, the Van Hool CX45E is ABC’s battery electric version of its flagship premium passenger CX45 clean diesel model. Starting with the highly efficient and proven Van Hool CX45 design, the development of an electric version brings a proven package for customers who have begun reducing their fleet carbon emissions. Onboard premium passenger and driver amenities offer enhanced drivability, passenger comfort and performance – all integrated in a zero emissions platform, designed for environmental sustainability.

Road Test Conditions, Parameters & Results

“Traveling at an average speed of 54 mph, through challenging terrain including elevations of 5,600-plus feet through the Cascade-Siskiyou National Forest, and with an average temperature of 55 degrees, ABC telematics continually capture real time data to measure operator and equipment performance during operation. Key performance indicators including total kWh consumption, charge rates, kWh regeneration and more, are analyzed against initial projections and benchmarked with thousands of miles of data from other CX45Es already in operation. This demonstration with MTRWestern met and exceeded expectations providing more quantifiable data for customer specific applications, allowing operators to make informed decisions and optimize operations. Moreover, the coach’s low-center of gravity, quiet, almost noise-free ride, delivers a premium driver and rider experience, at lower operating costs and zero emissions. Even on steep grades, the CX45E easily glided with moving traffic and utilized regenerative braking during extended downhill braking situations, generating substantial energy that went back into the battery packs further increasing efficiency and range.

Performance Highlights:

■ Round trip averaged an industry leading 280 miles of projected range per charge while in commercial operation;

■ Total energy used 3,400 kwh vs 262 gallons of equivalent diesel fuel;

■ Significant energy cost savings depending on electric rates at time and location of charge; and,

■ 2.3 Metric Tons of C02 emissions avoided during demonstration.

“We are thrilled to be among the first operators in the U.S. to offer true zero-emission green travel to our customers,” said Todd Paulson, director of operations at MTRWestern. “Our groups were extremely excited to experience EV travel firsthand and their feedback provides critical insight as we test EV integration within our fleet,” said Paulson. “Both passengers and drivers were impressed by the incredibly quiet ride and our drivers were especially pleased with the smooth coach handling and power, particularly during elevation gains. They also reported relative ease-of-use at all charging points. Charging on the grid was easily managed thanks to the 280-plus mile range of the CX45E. The CX45E uses a standardized J1772-CCS Type 1 charger that allowed for maximum flexibility for charging stops over the two-day period. Charging site sizes and layouts generally do not support a commercial vehicle of this size, highlighting the need for future looking charging infrastructure providers to incorporate larger parking spots with wide turning radius or pull through access. As future charging facilities are designed, they should take notice of the advancements in this quickly growing industry as ABC Companies is already transporting these vehicles on the public grid.

“The CX45E’s performance over the trip was truly impressive,” This is a great success that demonstrates the power and reliability of electric transport using the charging eco-system that exists today. ABC’s contribution made this unprecedented journey possible, and we are proud to demonstrate our commitment to pursuing carbon neutral solutions to the industry and our customer base.”

To view a video highlight of the Van Hool CX45E California to Washington trip, visit the ABC Companies YouTube channel.

Visit abc-companies.com for more information.

Complete Coach Works’ Oregon Procurement Contract Equips Yamhill County Transit’s Fleet With Latest Fully Reconditioned Bus

Complete Coach Works (CCW), a bus remanufacturer, has partnered with local governments in Oregon and Washington to enhance its transit operations.

“Utilizing Oregon and Washington’s statewide contracts, transit agencies are able to add safe and affordable, remanufactured buses to their fleet,” according to CCW.

“Yamhill County Transit (YCT) was the first agency to purchase a bus through CCW’s Oregon procurement contract. The McMinnville, OR, transit system’s latest order for a remanufactured 2003 30-foot Gillig low-floor transit bus follows three 30-foot and two 35-foot remanufactured Gillig buses purchased through the Oregon statewide contract in 2020. YCT is adding this full-size, two-door Gillig transit bus for increased passenger capacity and easier, more convenient passenger boarding.”

“YCT has spent the last five years making improvements to our fleet. The new Gillig buses are a great addition. It is our first experience with rehabbed buses, and we are pleased we made the decision to work with CCW. The bus procurement process went smoothly, the CCW staff was great to work with and the technicians resolved issues quickly. We look forward to a long working relationship with CCW,” said Cynthia Thompson, YCT’s transit manager.

“The bus selected by YCT will be remanufactured to the agency’s specifications at CCW’s headquarters and plant in Riverside, CA. The bus will include a new driver seat and flooring, interior and exterior LED lighting, and an ADA-compliant wheelchair ramp. CCW will also install a 2007 Cummins Recon clean-diesel ISL engine and rebuilt Allison B400R transmission, as well as providing YCT decal branding on the bus.”

Founded in 2012, YCT operates local bus routes in the cities of McMinnville and Newberg, as well as commuter bus routes to Hillsboro and Tigard in the Portland metropolitan area, and reached its 2 million rider mark in 2019. YCT reinstated all service routes in November and is experiencing ridership return to pre-pandemic levels.

For more information, visit completecoach.com.

New Generation Of Irizar i4: Efficient, Sustainable And Profitable

“The Irizar i4 is a versatile vehicle, an ideal coach for use in urban settings, for commuting, school transport, corporate or occasional functions. The different versions of this vehicle (H, M, L) strike a perfect balance between accessibility and luggage compartment capacity, according to the needs of each operator. The floors, which can be flat or lowered, and the unobstructed aisles, underline the concept of adaptability. The vehicle is available in lengths from 10.8 m to 15 m,” said the company.

“The new generation Irizar i4 coach, which was presented for the first time at the Busworld 2019 trade fair, now offers significant new features that mainly focus on a major reduction in weight and optimal per axle load distribution. This has resulted in a lighter vehicle, weighing up to 955 kg less, depending on the chosen configuration.

“This efficient, sustainable and profitable coach, with its structural redesign and incorporation of optimised and innovative technology solutions, will generate significant fuel savings of up to 5 percent and, therefore, improvements in CO2 emissions reductions.

“The implemented solutions include the use of high-strength steel and composite materials to replace traditional structural materials, as well as new seats, with weight optimisation and greater space between them, thus enhancing passenger comfort and experience.”

A New Length, On 2 Axles, 63 Seats

Irizar said the innovations that have been introduced have made it possible to offer new seat layouts, providing versatility and maximum adaptation to the customer’s needs. The new Irizar i4 model range includes a new coach version, a 13.23 m vehicle on a 4 x 2 chassis, with a maximum capacity of 63 seat spaces (59 + 1 PRM), with up to 34 standing places and luggage compartment volume exceeding 6m3. For more information, visit irizar.com.

Agencies Mark Black History Month

MTA Chair Gail Carr Williams addresses the crowd

WeGo Public Transit celebrated Transit Equity Day

Friday February 4, 2022, WeGo Public Transit celebrated Transit Equity Day, a day that commemorates the 109th birthday of Rosa Parks as well as other civil rights icons who advocated for accessible, reliable, and affordable transit. WeGo honored Elizabeth Duff, who broke the Nashville, TN, public transporation gender barrier; becoming first woman to drive a Nashville city bus. She started with the company in 1974 and retired in 2007. She died of COVID complications at the age of 72. She is survived by her husband, Harry Duff Sr., and three children who were presented with an award at the conclusion of the event.

Remarks were provided by Mayor Cooper, Council Lady Sharon W. Hurt., State Rep. Harold Love, MTA Chair Gail Carr-Williams and WeGo CEO Steve Bland.

Additionally, staff were onsite all day assisting riders to sign up for QuickTicket, WeGo’s new fare payment system which allows customers to earn free rides the more they ride.

Laketran Saves A Front Seat On Buses To Honor Rosa Parks

Laketran, with NAACP of Lake County, (OH) recently honoring the life and legacy of Rosa Parks by reserving a front seat on its buses in honor of the civil rights activist who sparked the Montgomery bus boycott.

“Born on February 4, Rosa Parks’ act of defiance for refusing to give up her bus seat to make room for a white passenger on a segregated city bus redirected the course of human rights in America. Known as the ‘Mother of the Modern-Day Civil Rights Movement,’ Parks’ arrest started a year long bus boycott. Parks’ courage began a movement that ended legal segregation in America and made her an inspiration to freedom-loving people everywhere,” according to NAACP.

“The basic freedoms of equality and access are principles that Laketran firmly embraces and the foundation of public transportation,” said Laketran CEO, Ben Capelle. “Rosa Parks relied on the bus to get her to work, shopping and educational facilities and that is no different from what people rely on us to do today in Lake County.”

Laketran reserved the front seat on its buses from February 4 through February 11 with a commemorative sign that read, “Reserved in honor of Rosa Parks. It all started on a bus. Laketran and NAACP of Lake County honor the courage of Rosa Parks and her vision for equal access for all.”

Laketran encouraged people to take time to ride a Laketran bus and take a selfie next to the seat reserved for Rosa Parks to bring awareness to Black History Month,” said Pam Morse, vice president of NAACP of Lake County. “This tribute provides an opportunity to remember our history and progress as a country.”

The NAACP of Lake County offered free All-Day bus passes to those interested in riding Laketran during the Rosa Parks’ tribute.

Prevost Debuts New Customer-Focused Website

Prevost has announced the relaunch of its website, prevostcar.com.

“The redesigned website incorporates new imagery with streamlined menus to create an outstanding user experience. It explains how Prevost creates The ultimate experienceTM for customers by outlining the ultimate ride, ultimate pride and ultimate peace of mind,” according to the company.

“The site features in-depth information on all models, extensive aftermarket information and is optimized for mobile users. Visitors will be able to find exactly what they are looking for in record time. The new site represents all equipment and services that Prevost offers including its pre-owned inventory, aftermarket promotions, technical publications, and it links to the newest addition, a new motorhome site at prevostmotorhomes.com.

“The new site features all the things that make Prevost the ultimate experience™,” said Michael Power, director of marketing and communications. “It defines all aspects of the ultimate ride, The ultimate pride and the ultimate peace of mind. When these things come together, customers receive the ultimate experience.”

“The ultimate ride is centered around providing the absolute best in coaches and other equipment features. Theultimate pride is reaffirming to customers the Prevost brand and other industries that use the products such as entertainers, motorhomes, and leading coach operators throughout North America. The ultimate peace of mind results from having the business programs and aftersales service support needed to keep coaches up and running.

“Prevost invites visitors to explore the new website and take a few extra moments to see the new motorhome site (prevostmotorhomes.com), explore motorhome lifestyle and events, get an introduction to the five major motorhome converters and to understand why Prevost is the foundation owners prefer for their motorhome.

Join Prevost at the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Expo in Long Beach, February 23-26 at Prevost’s booth #243 to learn more.

Visit prevostcar.com for more information.