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 September 2020 indicated vehicle imports were down in five categories outlined, compared to September 2019. For the first nine months of 2020, vehicles imports were down in seven categories, compared to the first nine months of 2019.

The United States imported 112 vehicles in September 2020, down 55 percent from 248 vehicles for September 2019. For the first nine months of 2020, the United States imported 1,113 vehicles, down 45 percent from 2,026 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

Canada sent 850 vehicles to the United States during the first nine months of 2020, while Mexico shipped 148 vehicles.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $264,297.88, down 18 percent from $324,175.50 for September 2019. The average price per vehicle for the first nine months of 2020 was $285,383.96, down 11 percent from $319,753.53 for the first nine months of 2019.

8702106100 Public-Transport Passenger Vehicles For Transport Of 10 Or More Persons With Only Comp-Ign Internal Combustion Piston Engine (Diesel Or Semi-Diesel), Other

The United States received 19 vehicles in September 2020, up 58 percent from 12 vehicles for September 2019. For the first nine months of 2020, the United States imported 131 vehicles, compared to 1,188 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

The United States imported 114 vehicles from Germany during the first nine months of 2020.

The average price per vehicle in September 2020 was $47,300.89, down 48 percent from $91,237.58 for September 2019. The average price per vehicle for the first nine months of 2020 was $67,903.62, up 61 percent from $42,258.39 for the first nine months of 2019.

The United States imported 34 vehicles in this category during September 2020, up 183 percent from 12 for September 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, 171 vehicles were imported, down 13 percent from 196 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

All the vehicles were imported from Canada, during the first nine months of 2020.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $238,512.71, down 1 percent from $240,184 for September 2019. The average price for the first nine months of 2020 was $244,958.47, up 7 percent from $229,989.40 for the first nine months of 2019.

The United States imported no vehicles in this category during September 2020 or September 2019. Six vehicles were imported during the first nine months of 2020, compared to two vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

Canada sent three vehicles, while Italy exported two vehicles and Mexico one vehicle during the first nine months of 2020.

The average price per vehicle for the first nine months of 2020 was $113,206.50, compared to $15,200 for the first nine months of 2019.

The United States imported two vehicles in this category during September 2020, compared to one vehicle for September 2019. Four vehicles were imported during the first nine months of 2020, compared to one vehicle for the first nine months of 2019.

The United Kingdom shipped three vehicles to the United States during the first nine months of 2020.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $5,673, down 79 percent from $27,485 for September 2019. The average price for the first nine months of 2020 was $6,921.75, down 75 percent from $27,485 for the first nine months of 2019.

The United States imported seven vehicles during September 2020, down 83 percent from 42 vehicles for September 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, 112 vehicles were received, down 73 percent from 414 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

China shipped 55 vehicles during the first nine months of 2020, while Canada sent 52 vehicles.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $610,514, compared to $167,754.69 for September 2019. The average price for the first nine months of 2020 was $188,035.43, up 56 percent from $120,719.95 for the first nine months of 2019.

The United States imported eight vehicles during September 2020, down 33 percent from 12 vehicles for September 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, 70 vehicles were imported, down 34 percent from 106 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

China sent all of the vehicles during the first nine months of 2020.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $8,747.75, up 15 percent from $7,608.50 for September 2019. The average price per vehicle for the first nine months of 2020 was $9,500.99, up 15 percent from $8,259.10 for the first nine months of 2019.

The United States imported 91 vehicles during September 2020, down 40 percent from 151 vehicles for September 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, 1,055 vehicles were received, down 15 percent from 1,247 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

Canada sent 1,050 vehicles to the United States during the first nine months of 2020.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $71,362.57, down 19 percent from $87,589.98 for September 2019. The average price per vehicle for the first nine months of 2020 was $89,070.68, up 14 percent from $77,839.40 for the first nine months of 2019.

The United States imported 93 vehicles during September 2020, down 3 percent from 96 vehicles for September 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, 527 vehicles were received, down 51 percent from 1,069 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

Canada sent 381 vehicles to the United States during the first nine months of 2020, while Germany exported 105 vehicles.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $41,986.49, down 12 percent from $47,535.91 for September 2019. The average price per vehicle for the first nine months of 2020 was $43,852.40, up 3 percent from $42,599.32 for the first nine months of 2019.

EXPORTS

Export totals for September 2020 were up in two categories, compared to September 2019. For the first nine months of 2020, two categories also reported increases, compared to the first nine months of 2019.

The United States exported 629 vehicles during September 2020, up 3 percent from 610 vehicles exported in September 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, 5,330 vehicles were sent, down 10 percent from 5,930 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

Canada received 3,126 vehicles during the first nine months of 2020, while Mexico imported 1,593 vehicles.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $70,206.12, up 4 percent from $67,552.31 for September 2019. The average price per vehicle for the first nine months of 2020 was $72,089.76, also up 4 percent from $69,081.39 for the first nine months of 2019.

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

The United States shipped 35 vehicles in September 2020, down 5 percent from 37 vehicles for September 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, 246 vehicles were exported, compared to 2,191 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

Canada received 109 vehicles during the first nine months of 2020, while both Nigeria and Mexico imported 50 vehicles.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $17,357.54, down 65 percent from $49,974.03 for September 2019. The average price for the first nine months of 2020 was $37,702.03, up 34 percent from $28,165.48 for the first nine months of 2019.

The United States exported 26 vehicles in September 2020, up 4 percent from 25 vehicles for September 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, 360 vehicles were sent, up 45 percent from 248 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

Mexico received 234 vehicles during the first nine months of 2020.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $21,529.62, down 55 percent from $47,741.84 for September 2019. The average price for the first nine months of 2020 was $30,254.15, down 8 percent from $32,970.61 for the first nine months of 2019.

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

The United States shipped nine vehicles in September 2020, compared to 75 vehicles for September 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, 1,397 vehicles were exported, compared to 743 vehicles for the first nine months of 2019.

Canada received 1,375 vehicles during the first nine months of 2020.

The average price per vehicle for September 2020 was $590,594.44, compared to $27,519.89 for September 2019. The average price per vehicle for the first nine months of 2020 was $39,207.29, up 32 percent from $29,787.95 for the first nine months of 2019.

Click on statistics to open .pdf file

Daimler Coaches North America Expands Aftermarket Parts And Service Network

• Daimler Coaches North America partners with DTNA and Detroit Diesel distributors to expand service network in North America.

• Eight new workshops will offer customers a unique one-stop experience for aftermarket parts and service solutions.

“Daimler Buses is further strengthening its motorcoach business in the U.S. by joining forces with its North American business unit, Daimler Coaches North America (DCNA), the parts distribution of Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA), and distributors of Detroit Diesel engines. Setra operators will now fully benefit from the unique infrastructure that DTNA operates in North America,” according to a press release.

Till Oberwoeder, head of Daimler Buses said, “With the foundation of our business unit DCNA, Daimler Buses demonstrates, with our North American bus operations, its commitment to the North American motorcoach industry and its ambition to continually grow in this core market. By leveraging our Daimler infrastructure in North America, we will provide best-in-class-service to our Setra operators and continue to expand our customer base.”

North American Service Centers
As of September 2020, DCNA has partnered with four experienced and highly qualified Detroit Diesel distributors in the U.S. to significantly grow its service network:

• Interstate Companies (Midwest);
• Penn Power Group (Northeast);
• Stewart and Stevenson (Southeast); and,
• Valley Power Systems (West Coast).

“Daimler Coaches North America has qualified eight new workshop locations for those selected Detroit Diesel distributors, to perform dedicated motorcoach service. Those service locations will expand their service for Detroit Diesel engines and Allison transmissions to full coach support. Their service will now include electrical, HVAC, pneumatics, and interiors. Customers will benefit from this unique full coach service to the industry: the new workshop set-up will enable Setra operators to have all of their coach service performed in one location by specialized coach mechanics, resulting in reduced service repair times for our operators.

“Additionally, the new service locations are qualified to serve as selling points for motorcoach spare-parts, offering a true one stop shopping experience to Setra operators.”

Thomas Rohde, head of Daimler Coaches North America said, “These new workshop locations in the U.S. offer a service coverage and parts supply that operators expect from Setra as the premium motorcoach brand. It is our ultimate target to minimize idle times for our customers — wherever they need us, we will be there.”

Aftermarket Service Parts Logistics
“The backbone of the aftermarket parts distribution is the DTNA supply chain, which includes 10 parts distribution centers (PDC) across the U.S. and Canada, as well as a Dedicated Delivery Service (DDS) for next-day delivery on 90 percent of orders. Setra’s motorcoach parts are integrated into DTNA’s existing support of more than 50 product lines, that serve the commercial transportation industry with reliable new and remanufactured parts. In working with DTNA’s aftermarket, Detroit Diesel’s service partners will be able to leverage its supply chain network, ensuring fast and reliable supply for Setra motorcoach operators.

For more information, contact zane.gray@daimler.com.

APTA’s TRANSform Conference & EXPO Moves To September

“Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, APTA has rescheduled its TRANSform Conference & EXPO. The conference opens on August 31 with the EXPO beginning September 1 and running through September 3, 2021, in Anaheim, CA,” according to an APTA press release.

“The decision to postpone the event to September was made out of concern for the safety of our attendees, exhibitors, and partners, and in response to public health advisories to limit travel and the prohibition of large gatherings. While the pandemic warrants much to be concerned about, there is positive news on the horizon related to a vaccine — which bodes well for the new date.

“We will continue to update aptaexpo.com with registration, hotel, and program information. If you are a current exhibitor, you will receive an email in the next few weeks from NTP Events with more details. With the rescheduling of EXPO, we are continuing to refine our complete 2021 conference calendar, which will be available soon. We want to thank everyone who has been working tirelessly to ensure a successful event and look forward to welcoming you to Anaheim in September 2021 for APTA’s TRANSform Conference & EXPO.”

New Marathon Air Disc Brake Pads 100 Percent Copper-Free

Marathon Brake Systems has introduced new 100 percent copper-free formulations for its DiscStar family of air disc brake pads.

“Marathon's DiscStar Air Disc Pads are now N-rated, and in complete compliance with applicable state and federal regulations as part of the Copper-Free Brake Initiative. In conjunction with the new pad formulations, Marathon has lowered the price for all DiscStar pads, which are available through Marathon’s distribution partners, as well as online from the Marathon website,” according to the company.

“Marathon introduced its first air disc pad for transit applications in 2003, and DiscStar air disc pads now are proven performers in a wide variety of heavy duty commercial vehicle applications. DiscStar Transit Premium & Severe Service Pads (DSTP) are specifically designed to address heavy-duty severe service applications, including transit buses, fire trucks, refuse and concrete. DiscStar Highway Premium Pads (DSHP) are formulated for on-highway commercial applications, including truck, motor coach and school bus.

“Air disc pads are engineered to exceed OE specifications and manufactured in Marathon’s World Class ISO certified plants. These pads are formulated using Marathon’s years of friction expertise to deliver the longest pad and rotor life with low noise and the industry’s dependable topping power. In addition, Marathon has developed a proven, reliable attachment method to ensure a high mechanical bond between the friction material and the steel backing plate to prevent the common problem of shearing the pad from its backing plate.”

Marathon Brake Systems has been serving the industry for more than 25 years. Marathon offers a family of friction materials, with brake linings for general over-the-road and transit applications. All Marathon products come with the Best-In-Class guarantee.

Marathon's aftermarket linings are manufactured in ISO-certified facilities, meeting or exceeding the highest global standards. With a fill rate of over 95 percent, Marathon ships products within a day or two of receipt of order. In addition, an experienced support team is available to help find the right solution for brake or friction issues.

RTC Upgrades Bus Stop Lighting At 1,400 Transit Stops

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) has announced its latest improvements to enhance safety for transit riders, with the installation and upgrade of lighting at nearly 1,400 transit bus stops. Two different projects include new lighting equipment that not only creates a safer environment at otherwise dark bus stops, but also increases visibility, allowing bus drivers approaching the stop to better see waiting passengers.

The RTC is leveraging $4 million in federal grant funding to pay for the projects, and has spent $22.4 million since 2008 to help improve bus and bus stop safety for transit passengers.

The RTC has been installing lighting systems at nearly 1,100 bus shelters throughout the valley. Construction for the bus shelter lighting project has been ongoing since March 2020 and was completed November 2020.

The RTC has initiated a separate lighting project to install standalone solar lights at a total of 300 bus stops that currently lack a shelter and/or nearby lighting from a streetlight or other source. The solar lights are able to remain illuminated from dusk until dawn. Installation across Southern Nevada began in June 2020 and is expected to be completed this month (December).

“The lighting projects are yet another move on our behalf to put our passengers’ safety first,” said Francis Julien, RTC deputy chief executive officer. “We heard the message loud and clear from riders who said they didn’t feel safe at some of our bus stops due to the lack of lighting. We are addressing those concerns with these projects to make riders feel comfortable and safe while using our system.”

The RTC is the transit authority, transportation planning organization, regional traffic management agency and administrator of Southern Nevada Strong, the regional planning effort for the Las Vegas Valley.

Next-Generation Proterra EV Battery Manufacturing Facility Opens in Los Angeles County

Proterra has opened a new battery production line co-located in its EV bus manufacturing facility in Los Angeles County, CA.

“The new battery production line will manufacture Proterra’s industry-leading battery packs featuring new, next generation cells, and will create dozens of new jobs in Los Angeles County, including more than two dozen positions represented by the United Steelworkers Local 675. The facility will expand Proterra’s battery production capacity to meet growing demand for the company’s battery systems in Proterra Powered™ commercial vehicles and Proterra’s transit buses. The co-located battery line is designed to optimize space and demonstrates Proterra’s ability to bring state-of-the-art battery production directly to commercial vehicle OEMs.

“Today, Proterra furthers our commitment to the City of Industry and Los Angeles County as we bring more advanced manufacturing jobs to California,” said Proterra CEO Jack Allen. “Proterra’s industry-leading battery technology has been proven in 16 million miles driven by our fleet of buses. Now, with the opening of our new battery production line, we’re excited to build on this progress as we deliver Proterra Powered technology solutions to vehicle manufacturers around the world.”

“The California Energy Commission is proud to partner with innovative companies like Proterra to expand advanced transportation manufacturing in our state. The announcement is yet another demonstration of how California is the center for innovation in electric vehicle technology,” said California Energy Commissioner Patty Monahan.

The batteries manufactured at the City of Industry facility will feature Proterra’s redesigned modules, with next-generation cells developed with LG Energy Solutions. The new battery packs will improve Proterra’s energy systems with greater energy storage capacity and higher power density, allowing increased range and faster charge times. Since 2016, Proterra and LG engineering teams have been collaborating to maximize cell performance to meet the stringent requirements of commercial vehicle markets.

Proterra’s new battery-electric transit vehicle, the Proterra ZX5, can now be equipped with 675 kWh of energy.

“Proterra’s technology advancements enable efficient production in a small footprint and Proterra’s transit bus business benefits from co-location of battery production in its Los Angeles facility. The new battery production line was established within a year, and showcases the company’s ability to design and deploy its modular and capital efficient manufacturing process for optimal EV vehicle manufacturing," said Allen.

For more information, visit www.proterra.com.

NCTD Continues Its Holiday Express Tradition, But Via Zoom This Year

Oceanside, CA’s North County Transit District (NCTD) is continuing one of San Diego’s most cherished holiday traditions— with a 2020 twist. On Saturday, December 19, NCTD will host its annual COASTER Holiday Express — this year the event will be virtual and free. Santa and his carolers will broadcast live from the COASTER train via Zoom, and into the homes of hundreds of families.

“This year has changed much of our daily lives and practices,” said Tony Kranz, NCTD board chair and city of Encinitas council member. “Still, while NCTD remained focused in 2020 on delivering safe, essential transit services to our customers, it was of paramount importance for us to be able to deliver on our annual tradition and bring holiday cheer to families at the end of such a challenging year.”

While the COASTER Holiday Express traditionally takes passengers on a 65-minute non-stop round-trip tour down the coast, this year’s Holiday Express will be 100 percent virtual. Santa and his carolers will be hosting an hour including classic holiday songs, tales from the North Pole, and live readings of children’s wish lists, which have been emailed to him.