New York City Orders 90 Bus Test Fleet From New York Manufacturer Nova Bus

The MTA is one of the largest bus operators in the nation, and its buses are among the most heavily used in the nation. The agency is looking at replacements for its aging fleet, and has placed an order of 90 buses from Nova Bus, which is located in upstate New York.

MTA New York City Transit (NYC Transit) has placed an order for a test fleet of ninety 40-foot Nova LFS vehicles. The buses will be assembled in Nova Bus’ upstate New York plant and delivered in the first half of 2011.

MTA NYC Transit contract requires Nova Bus to provide the Nova LFS buses in three different configurations, to assess the various transmission and cooling technologies available.

Gilles Dion, President and CEO of Nova Bus, proudly announced the decision, stating, “The Nova Bus team is keenly focused on sustainable business development, and we are pleased to have the opportunity to pursue our partnership with one of the leading transit authorities in North America.”

“A contract is a win-win situation, because not only does it benefit New Yorkers downstate who get to ride these Nova buses, but more importantly this creates good-paying jobs right here in Plattsburgh,” U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer said. “The MTA is now a repeat customer with Nova, and this new contract reaffirms that Nova is a first-class facility doing great work in Plattsburgh.”

The LFS bus spec sheet notes some of the engine and transmission configuration options but one notable absence is the fuel mileage on these buses. Nova Bus also has a hybrid bus option, but it isn't clear whether that's part of this test fleet.

The MTA already sources articulated buses from Nova Bus (used for Select Bus Service routes), so this would be expanding on the company's relationship with the agency.