This post originally appeared on Orphan Road.
Metro’s latest order of 22 hybrid busses rolled into service last week. The 2008 version of the DE60LF has some modifications from the original 2004 version, notably a Cummins engine that replaces the Caterpillar C9.
Reader JK rode on one the other day and sent in this report:
– the idles and starts seemed a lot smoother and quieter–from both the engine and HVAC system, which might indicate more usage of the hybrid modes with more batteries
– the seat arrangements are slightly different: there is now a “modesty panel” in front of the first row of forward-facing seats; the double seats on each side of the articulation are now singles; in the handicapped seating area is the normal wide inward-facing bench right next a single “jump seat”
– the seats have a new material which seems more slip resistant (great for those quick or sudden stops!); the back-of-seat handles also have a re-design
– the articulation is now a “full-circle” on the floor, unlike the previous DE60LF’s which had a “half-circle”; there are now ceiling grab handles in the articulation
– the HVAC unit seems to be mounted further forward over the front half of the coach, probably to make room for more batteries
– there is greater use of LEDs for loading lights (outside facing the ground and in the doorways)
– THE WINDOWS DO NOT OPEN!
Oranviri has pics here.
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