MTA Buys Nova LFS Artic Buses

The New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has purchased 90 Nova LFS articulated vehicles to be used, starting 2010, for the transportation of some of the 2.3 million passengers who use its services during a weekday. The purchase order came after the Nova LFS Artic completed a six-week in-revenue service run on the Bx12 route in the Bronx and the M15 route in Manhattan.

The vehicles will be assembled in Nova Bus' plant located in Plattsburgh, NY and will join MTA's fleet, consisting of some 4,500 buses. The Nova LFS will be used in the five boroughs of New York City, along the 249 local and express routes.

The Nova LFS Artic features a unique stainless steel structure, a particulate filter that reduces emissions and a time-tested front-door access ramp for mobility impaired passengers. Both the interior and the driver areas have been redesigned.

The LFS now boasts wider mid and rear doors, triggered by motion sensors once the bus has come to a full stop. This will allow, thanks to the improved passenger flow, for less time spent at stops.

The Artic is 62 ft. in length and can fit up to 62 people on seats. It is powered by a Cummins ISL engine, developing 330 hp. The turntable of the articulated vehicle is a Hubner 15.3 platform with hydraulic stability control.

"The LFS Artic takes the LFS to great lengths, as it combines its proven reliability with the ability to handle your highest-volume routes. Its increased passenger capacity, onboard fluidity and easy maneuverability make for an optimal ride. Whether on its own or as part of a rapid transit system, the LFS Artic is your high-capacity transit solution for heavy traffic," says the manufacturer.