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  1. Stalliongrad
    Continued.....
     
     
     




     
     
     
    BYD: The only Chinese Auto Manufacturer to successfully enter the United States is seeking to sell cars in the very near future. Currently BYD manufactures the BYD K9 Fully Electric Transit Bus and has received orders from several transit authorities.
     
    Demand: Automotive Journalists have commented that Americans would be receptive to Chinese cars on sale in the US if the Chinese Manufacturers would improve design, safety and overall build quality. Currently BYD's major markets outside of China are in Southeast Asia, Europe and Australia. BYD was one of the first Chinese companies to attempt to improve safety by sending test vehicles to Germany to be crash tested. Previously its vehicles would not achieve higher than a 3 star safety rating.
     
    Profit: BYD is aware being the first Chinese manufacturer to sell a car in the United States would be a great boost to its profits and it would put itself ahead of any other Chinese car company. However BYD would struggle to find its niche as direct competition with Japanese and Korean giants like Toyota and Hyundai.
     

    Ease of Entrance: BYD is heavily invested with attempting to build models which would be road legal in the US and it is expensive. BYD currently has the financial backing of American Businessman and Investor Warren Buffett who suggested to BYD that it should consider hiring new designers.
     




     

    The BYD Qin is the company's response to Warren Buffetts suggestion that it should build a small, cheap Hybrid to base its new line up.


     
     
     




     

    Samsung: The Korean Mega Conglomerate builds everything from Mobile Phones to Construction Equipment has considered considered selling its cars not only just in the United States but globally as well.
     

    Demand: .Most Americans are unaware that Samsung even builds cars until a trip to South Korea reveals this fact. Samsung's real issue is that many Americans are polarized to the issue of having a phone and a car built by the same company. Samsung is aware it would either be a great success or a terrible investment.
     
    Profit: Because of the fact that a Samsung branded line up could either positively or negatively affect its electronics sales, Samsung has resisted taking steps to compete with the "Korean Two" Hyundai and Kia Motors and has instead invested in both equally. Samsung's Automotive branch is largely geared as a Luxury Brand and it would directly compete with the "German Three" Mercedes Benz, BMW and Audi. The Korean brands are also pushing out Luxury Vehicles such as the Hyundai Genesis and the Kia K900 making competition even tighter.
     

    Ease of Entrance: Samsung's Automotive division its largely controlled by the French automotive company Renault which purchased it from its alliance with Nissan in the late 2000's during an economic downturn in Asia. Renault controls 80% of the company and has no plans to expand the brand into the US. It uses its alliance with Samsung to sell cars in Asia. Because Renault has no presence in the US it would be expensive to venture into the market.
     



     

    The Samsung SM7 would compete with the Mercedes Benz E class and BMW 5 Series if it entered the US Market.


     




     
    Citroen: Founded by Andre Citroen who built weapons for France shifted the direction of his company much like Henry Ford to produce cars. Citroen left the US market in the late 70's but its newer models have caught the attention of Americans in recent years.
     

    Demand: Citroen is possibly best known for its success in producing "hot hatchbacks" which have always sold well in the United States. Currently many manufacturers are shifting away from Hatchbacks and leaving many enthusiasts disappointed. (Subaru WRX no longer comes as a wagon, Honda has abandoned its Civic Hatchback as well) This could potentially be the niche with which Citroen could insert itself into the US market.
     

    Profit: In the economic downturn of the mid 1970's the French Government feared large job losses in the automotive sector and decided to merge Citroen and Peugeot into one company PSA Peugeot Citroen which has made its intentions to stay clear of the US market very public. Some have urged PSA Peugeot Citroen to reconsider and potentially base its North American operations in Quebec, the French Speaking Province of Canada.
     

    Ease of Entrance: Potentially spending millions to research and develop models for the US or re configuring current models and engines to be US compliant is only half of the battle facing the company. No dealer network and no manufacturing base would make it a logistical nightmare to launch US operations.
     



     

    Citroen's involvement in Rallying would certainly generate a following in the US. The Citroen DS3 would compete with the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus and Mini Cooper


     




     

    Tata: The Indian Automotive giant currently has aspirations to enter the US as a budget manufacturer competing with other manufacturers solely in the compact and Budget under $10,000 buyer range.
     

    Demand: Cars in the US are as expensive as ever and even American manufacturers are finding ways to make small budget cars which can sell for under $10,000 to attract new buyers and teenage buyers. General Motors does this by re badging smaller Daewoo models from Korea as Chevrolet's in the US. Tata Motors is primed to enter the US market as this is the primary type of vehicle its known for building in India.
     
    Profit: Tata Motors is part of Tata Group one of the largest companies in India which manufacturers everything from Steel to Power Plants and even owns a hotel group. Tata entering the US market at a time when many new cars being sold in the US are currently smaller budget cars would be wise decision. As evidenced by the success of the Fiat 500 and the redesigned Smart Car. Tata announced it had intentions to sell its Tata Nano in the United States.
     
    Ease of Entrance: Unknown to most Americans, Tata Motors based in India currently owns two of the largest British luxury manufacturers Land Rover and Jaguar which it acquired from Ford in the late 2000s. Tata merged its new companies into a new one called JaguarLandrover Group. Land Rover does have manufacturing plants in the Southern United States in Georgia and this would be Tata's means of entering the US producing its budget cars in the same factory as Range Rovers which are 4 times as expensive. Also having access to the Jaguar and Land Rover dealer network would also decrease the cost of bringing the brand to the United States.
     




     

    The Tata Zica would compete with subcompact models in the budget car range such as the Chevrolet Spark, Ford Fiesta, Mitsubishi Mirage, Nissan Versa and the Toyota Yaris. Tata has promised to rename the Zica due to its similarity with the Zika virus currently plaguing South America.


  2. Stalliongrad
    The United States has some of the strictest laws on the books governing the manufacture and sale of new vehicles. This is one reason many automakers have avoided attempting to either return to the United States or break into the market for the first time.


     

    Overview: To understand the likelihood that a manufacturer will spend large amounts of money to enter the US market a set a factors must be assessed first. Demand, Profit, Ease of Entrance. US Regulations began to increase around the end of the 1980s and that is when many foreign automakers left the US.
     




     

    Peugeot: A French manufacturer which left the United States toward the end of the 1980s has been long rumored to be planning a return to the United States. However Peugeot has only sent demonstrators to the United States to attend Auto Shows. The only modern Peugeot vehicles in the United States are owned by French Diplomats.
     
    Demand: Peugeot left the United States with abysmal sales due to the dominance of newly arrived Japanese car manufacturers whose cars were far more reliable and well built. Peugeot has produced cars since its US departure that have had demand in the United States such as its 206 which was seen as a cheaper alternative to the Volkswagen Golf.
     
    Profit: If Peugeot re-entered the US market it would not make as much money as projected because the majority of its vehicle range is not suited toward American customers. Peugeot manufactures small, manual transmission vehicles which run on diesel fuel. Three factors which are not popular in the United States at the current time. Americans prefer Larger Crossover vehicles and automatic transmissions.
     
    Ease of Entrance: Peugeot would have to spend millions if not more re-configuring some of its cars to US Specifications and it would need to find engines which would be able to be Emissions compliant in the US. The only viable way for Peugeot to re-enter the United States would be with the help of its International Partner Mitsubishi. The cost of setting up a distribution network of car dealers is also expensive. Mitsubishi and Peugeot have agreements to badge engineer each others vehicles. If Peugeot re-entered the US market they would be badge engineered Mitsubishi vehicles available at Mitsubishi dealers. Peugeot currently manufacturers cars in Mexico for the South American Market.
     



     
     
     

    The Peugeot 4007 is actually a Mitsubishi Outlander


     
     
     



    Skoda: Although never having a presence in the US, Skoda is a popular brand with American car enthusiasts into the Euro Tuner scene. Volkswagen Group, which owns Skoda has pondered bringing the Czech Republic brand to the United States a few times.
     
    Demand: Demand is relatively low for this brand as most are completely unfamiliar with Skoda vehicles and unfamiliar brands do not sell very well. Volkswagen currently owns several luxury vehicle brands which are already selling well in the United States (Audi, Porsche, Lamborghini etc), only hardcore Volkswagen fans would be familiar with the brand in the United States.
     
    Profit: Volkswagen, already owning profitable brands in the United States wouldn't stand to make much money bringing Skoda to the United States because of the established dominance of the Volkswagen Brand in the US.
     
    Ease of Entrance: Because most current Skoda vehicles share a platform with existing Volkswagen cars it would actually be relatively cheap to bring Skoda to the United States as the vehicles would simply be badge engineered.
     



     


    The Skoda Octavia shares much of its build with the Volkswagen Passat but comes in sportier trim levels.


     
     
     



     
     
     
     
     
    Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Lancia: All left the US in the lat 80's as well, 2 of the brands have made a return to the US thanks to the economic crash of 2009. Fiat Group which owns Ferrari and several other brands purchased Chrysler Group in 2010 saving it from collapse and giving Fiat control of Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands. What this also allowed is Fiat to reenter the US market using Chrysler's dealership network and manufacturing plants.
     
    Demand: Alfa Romeo vehicles in the US from the 1980s are collectors items and becoming more and more rare. Car Enthusiasts already familiar with the brand were consistently being teased with their exposure on the British program Top Gear (Bring Back Clarkson, Hammond and Capt Slow).
     
    Profit: Fiat Group spend billions fully returning to the United States but because they have adopted a new strategy they are also on track to make millions in return. Fiat is producing larger crossover vehicles for the us market and using its Alfa Romeo brand as its high end luxury and performance marque.
     
    Ease of Entrance: It took Fiat approximately 3 years to prepare to return to the US. Several of its key vehicles were redesigned to meet US specs and be produced in the US alongside Chrysler vehicles.
     



     


    2016 Alfa Romeo Giulia (US Release)


     




     

    Holden: The Australian brand extremely popular with Americans, Holden has an off on relationship in the US.
     
    Demand: Is very high in the United States for Holden vehicles. The mixture of high performance and practical vehicles and similar tastes between Aussies and Ameircans have kept demand for this brand in the US very high.
     
    Profit: General Motors which owns the Holden marque has resisted bringing the nameplate to the US because it would directly compete with the Chevrolet brand already established. This along with the fact that GM is largely still owned by the Federal Government it is unlikely GM will add new brands to line up. Before the Economic crash in 2009 GM consisted of, Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, Hummer, Saturn, Pontiac, Saab and Oldsmobile. 4 of those brands were cut to restructure the company.
     
    Ease of Entrance: Sharing most of its platforms with Chevrolet models, Holden vehicles did exist in the US as Pontiac badged vehicles however have since vanished with the disappearance of the brand.
     




     

    The Holden Ute is rumored to come to the US as the new Chevrolet El Camino soon


  3. Stalliongrad
    A brilliant PR move and a result of input from Dominos Employees, Customers and Automotive Designers, the DXP is the Ultimate Pizza Delivery Vehicle.


     



     

    Dominos DXP Front Grille


     




     

    Manufacturer Quick Facts:


     

    Founded: 2007



    Main Office: Phoenix, Arizona



    Industry: Specialty Vehicles, Drones, 3-D Printed Vehicles



    Notable Product: Dominos DXP, Rally Fighter


     



     

    Dominos DXP


     

    Model Quick Facts:


     


    Vehicle Length: 143.3 Inches



    Vehicle Width: 62.9 Inches



    Vehicle Height: 61.1 Inches



    Engine Options: Daewoo S-Tec



    Transmission Options: Jatco CVT Transmission



    Assembly: Changwon, South Korea



    Phoenix, Arizona


     



     

    Dominos DXP's


     

    Overview: The Dominos DXP began as a concept by Dominos 5 years ago. A contest to build the pizza delivery vehicle of the future was announced and like with military and transportation bids Dominos began accepting ideas and concepts for the DXP. Consultants at Roush, best known for their modifications of Ford vehicles took the winning design and made it possible to become reality. The DXP starts its life as a standard Chevrolet Spark and is converted to a DXP by Local Motors a small specialty vehicle manufacturer in Phoenix, Arizona. Dominos, being the first pizza restaurant to offer pizza delivery was passionate in funding its design.
     



     

    A Dominos Delivery Driver retriving Pizzas from the DXP's onboard warming oven


     
    The DXP only has one seat with the rest of its interior being gutted to make room for the pizza oven and special compartments for dipping sauce, napkins and 2 liter soda bottles. The DXP can hold 80 pizzas and store them in its warming oven which can keep the pizza at 140 degrees (F) to stay hot. The DXP co-exists with Dominos new pizza app which allows you to text for a pizza or use an Apple Watch.
     



     

    Dominos Stores with a DXP allow customers to track their order with the Apple Watch


     
    Currently 94 DXPs have been delivered to Dominos stores with the highest demands. Dominos is currently holding a vote to give a DXP to a local Dominos store. Franchise owners can also purchase one for their store.
     



     


    The DXP stores pizza in both the regular warming bags until the pizzas in the warming oven are delivered. The passenger seat is removed and holds the sauces, napkins and drinks. The Oven is accessed by a special door which Dominos has patent rights to.


     



     

    Dominos DXP rear hatch. Note the Pizza oven and warming bags.


     
    The DXP also has special puddle lights which display a Dominos logo on the ground to show any puddles or obstetrical on the ground. Sometimes delivery drivers would trip and drop the pizza or step in a puddle and water would splash on it. These lights were created to solve this problem.
     

    The DXP also solves the stereotype that pizzas are delivered in beat up old cars driven by teenagers.
     



     

    Remember the Pizza Planet Truck from Toy Story


     


    The Dominos DXP


     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rpiC1wBfto

     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rq_YBk8pRL4

  4. Stalliongrad
    2015 24 Hours of Le Mans Poster


     

    One of the oldest auto races in the world, the 24 Hours of Le Mans has been nicknamed "The Grand Prix of Endurance and Efficiency".
     



     

    Porsche 919 Hybrid Le Mans Prototype


     
    Series Overview: Born from an era of Grand Prix racing in the 1920s which involved racing from one city to another at high speeds Le Mans presents a different challenge. Grand Prix racing is all about which team can build the fastest car. Endurance racing focuses on speed and reliability instead as the race lasts for 24 hours.
     
    Teams: 50
     
    First Season: 1923
     
    Next Season: 2016 (Race takes place usually 2nd week of June)
     




     

    Audi R18 E-Tron Quattro TDI LMP


     

    Classes: Le Mans is unique in that several different classes of sports cars are participating in one race at the same time. The top two classes are known as LMP 1 and LMP 2. Le Mans Prototypes are custom built and are the second fastest type of race cars constructed being only succeeded by Formula 1 cars. The second two are known as GT1 and GT2. Each class is governed by a strict set of rules which involve weight, engine displacement, Length, Width etc. The rules change frequently to keep competition close. Some cars are allowed to be open top and have no doors while closed tops must have two doors. These rules are what the manufacturers build their cars to comply to. Newer regulations have permitted the use of LMP hybrids which use electric motors to assist with acceleration.
     
    GT Cars are essentially road going sports cars modified by a racing team to comply with the rules and be eligible to compete. This class includes vehicles such as the BMW M3, Porsche 911, Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Viper etc.
     



     

    Ford Mustang GTLM Concept


     

    Teams: In Le Mans, there are 3 different types of teams each competing for glory:
     
    Manufacturer Teams: These are the teams which are founded and operated by the car manufacturers themselves. Because the manufacturers have the most money they can afford to field at least 2 race cars but may field as many as 4.
     
    Racing Teams: Racing teams are full time teams which compete in several different types of auto racing and compete in different categories internationally. They usually can afford to race at least two race cars.
     
    Privateer Teams: Are the smallest racing teams usually independent with only a few sponsors. They usually only have 1 car and managed to raise enough money to enter the race. (Think if you and 8 your friends build a race car and raise $50 grand). Competition between privateers is usually the most fierce. Most Privateer teams compete in GT classes but sometimes Privateer teams can be funded by a millionaire and build a complete race car and compete in the LMP classes.
     

    All teams also take pride in representing their respective nation, even if the cars they are fielding were built in a different country.
     




     

    Corvette Racing Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C7, AF Corse Ferrari 458, Aston Martin Racing Aston Martin V8 Vantage


     

    Venue: The 24 Hours of Le Mans takes place at the Circuit de la Sarthe, in Le Mans, France. Taking part of the race track and closed public roads, it is one of the longest race tracks in the world at 8 miles long. The race track can host 100,000 race fans and has been changed several times across the years, currently it has 38 turns which each have a name helping drivers to memorize the course. This course places a heavy strain on race cars because 85% of the track allows for cars to race at full throttle.
     



     

    Trophy: Trophies are awarded to the winners of each class as well as the winner of the overall race. Because each team has more the one team they are awarded the trophy collectively. Porsche currently holds the record for most wins with 18 Victories.
     



     

    Audi Sport Team Victory Photo


     



     

    Toyota TS040 LMP Hybrid


     



     

    Peugeot 908 HDI FAP Hybrid LMP


     



     

    Nissan GT-R Le Mans LMP Hybrid


     
     
     

    24 Hours of Le Mans Full Race


     




     


    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCck_TILv3o

  5. Stalliongrad
    Known locally as D-Dot the Detroit Department of Transportation has existed in one form or another since 1922, previously running the city's streetcar network.


     



     

    Detroit Department of Transportation New Flyer Xcelsior XDE60 Articulated


     

    Type: Public/Private, Service contracted to private Transportation Company MV Transportation
     
    Union Representation: All DDOT Bus Operators are represented by Amalgamated Transit Union Local 26
     
    Fleet Size: 300 Low-Floor and Articulated Buses
     
    Routes: 35
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: The Detroit Department of Transportation is a long time customer of New Flyer and Gillig transit buses. DDOT unfortunately has like many transit agencies, shelved any plans to move to alternative fuels because of the costs associated with a transition, as a result buses in Detroit are solely diesel powered. Only 10 of its Xcelsior models carrying the XDE designation as a hybrids.
     



     

    DDOT New Flyer Xcelsior XD40's freshly delivered from Canada being prepared for Service


     
    Fare Collection: There is currently no contactless card payment system in Detroit and there are currently no plans to create one. However many tech companies in Suburban Detroit have submitted low cost proposals which would be able to fill this gap in fare coverage.
     
    Livery: Detroit's bus fleet contains green and yellow themes on a white black drop. DDOT does sell the sides of its fleet for advertising space.
     



     

    Detroit Department of Transportation New Flyer Xcelsior XDE60 Articulated


     
    Innovations: DDOT carries out multiple surveys of its routes to constantly analyze ridership and address any areas where changes should be made. 3 of its routes operate one a 24/7 schedule carrying out service all day everyday. DDOT operates in alliance with SMART which carries out bus service to Suburban Detroit.
     



     

    Detroit Department of Transportation New Flyer Xcelsior XDE40


     


    DDOT at Work


     





  6. Stalliongrad
    "The World Cup of Motorsport", A1GP introduced a brand new concept into motorsports and was well received but failed due to improper management.


     



     

    A1GP Promotional Demonstrator


     
     
     
    Series Overview: The Concept of the A1GP Series was founded by Sheikh Maktoum Hasher Maktoum Al Maktoum of Dubai. The Concept featured a single make of cars each representing a Nation instead of a Team or Manufacturer. Racing Teams in each of the countries interested in participating would in essence "purchase a franchise". This would by them the car and equipment needed to run it and the Series would pay to move the car to various races around the world. The rules required the Team and Drivers to be of the same nationality as the car but other support staff were not required by this rule. The races would take place during the Formula 1 off season, so that international open wheel race fans would still have something interesting to watch.
     
    Teams: 21
     
    First Season: 2005
     
    Last Season: 2010
     



     

    Team USA leads Team RSA (South Africa) at a race in Taupo, New Zealand


     

    A1GP Car: There were two variants of the A1GP Car. The cars were initially designed by Lola and were created in such a way to force more air over the cars front end. This was mentioned to encourage drivers to overtake more often. The Engines were designed by Zytek Engineering. They produced 520 Horsepower and weighed only 124 Kg. They were designed to be as durable as possible because they needed to work for an entire season. The second variant was based on the F2004 Formula One car built by Ferrari who had been hired as consultants. These cars used Ferrari/Maserati V8 Engines putting out 600 Horsepower. Both hosted Carbon Fiber construction.
     



     

    Team GER (Germany) in second place but in front of Team IND (Indonesia)


     

    Venues: Races were hosted at smaller race tracks which signed on to present the event because of the medium sized nature of A1GP events. Some tracks were International Formula One GP circuits and others were less known struggling race tracks who needed A1GP for some quick cash income. Races took place all over the world according to a schedule put forth by the Series. From the United Kingdom to South Africa and China the races were truly international.
     



     

    Team CAN (Canada)


     



     

    Team GBR (Great Britain)


     



     

    Team SUI (Switzerland) and Team FRA (France)


     

    Points System: Each A1GP race consisted of actually 2 races. The "Sprint Race" used the qualifying grid from the previous day and began with a rolling start. The race lasted for 24 minutes and all teams needed to take a pit stop between laps 4 and 8.
     
    The "Feature Race" also used the previous day qualifying position and the race began with a standing start. Teams were required to take a pit stop between laps 4, 8 and 16 and the race lasted for 69 minutes.
     
    Points were awarded for finishing in 1st through 10th

    1st - 15 pts 2nd - 12 pts 3rd - 10 pts 4th - 8 pts 5th - 6 pts 6th - 5 pts 7th - 4 pts 8th - 3 pts 9th - 2 pts 10th - 1pt

    The team with the most points at the end of the season would be crowned the Champion.
     



     

    Team IRL (Ireland) was the last A1GP Champion


     


    A1GP Race at Brands Hatch, United Kingdom


     




     


    A1GP Race in Durban, South Africa


     




  7. Stalliongrad
    With a production lifespan of over 38 years, the RTS is certainly deserving a place in the Hall of Transit Greats.


     



     

    NYCTA GMC RTS


     



     

    Manufacturer Quick Facts:


     

    Founded: 1901



    Main Office: Detroit, Michigan



    Industry: Trucks and Buses



    Notable Product: GM New-Look, GM Old-Look, RTS. GMC Topkick, CCKW, DUKW, Sierra, Yukon, Terrain


     



     

    This WMATA GMC RTS still exists today as part of the Historic Fleet


     

    Model Quick Facts:


     


    Vehicle Length: 30, 35 or 40 Feet



    Vehicle Width: 96 or 102 Inches



    Vehicle Height: 119 Inches



    Engine Options: Detroit Diesel 71, 92 and 50 Series, Cummins or Caterpillar Diesel Engines



    Transmission Options: Allison V730 or ZF 5HP-500 Transmissions



    Assembly: Pontiac, Michigan, United States



    Roswell, New Mexico, United States



    Niskayuna, New York, United States



    Saint-Eustache, Quebec Canada


     



     

    DART Novabus RTS


     



    Overview: The RTS is a product of GM's entry into the Department of Transportation's "Transbus" project going head to head in a selection competition with the equally ranked Flxible Metro B. The RTS at the time was considered futuristic because of its curved body panels and window design, which paid homage to its older brother the GM Fishbowl which had a curved windshield. GM understood it faced fierce competition from the Flxible Metro B and as such developed a back-up plan in case it did not win the competition. GM simplified the RTS and began to proceed with production early after securing procurement contracts from several transit agencies in Texas, Massachusetts and California. Some later examples were sent to Detroit where it also won a contract. The RTS is most notable for its flexibility in customization. Its simple design meant that agency specific requests were not difficult to satisfy. CTA in Chicago requested Front wheelchair lifts and a rear window. A special version called the RTS-WFD (Wide-Front-Door) was commissioned for CTA in Chicago. The RTS was built in a one door "suburban" configuration but was abandoned due to low sales.


     


    The RTS was built by 4 different manufacturers throughout its lifetime.


     


    A Storied History: The RTS was originally designed and built by General Motors, GM sold the patent rights to Transportation Manufacturing Corporation (TMC, a subsidary of MCI) in 1987. After TMC and MCI completed an order for New York City, TMC sold the rights to NovaBus of Quebec. NovaBus produced the RTS until 2002 when the company exited the United States market to focus on its LFS design. The design was revived by Millennium Transit Services in 2006 but after failing to secure contracts for the RTS went out of business in 2009. Millennium Transit Services re-entered the Market in 2011 at a transit convention in New Orleans where it announced a new RTS in 42 ft configuration. Today most new RTS buses are purchased by smaller cities and municipalities and airports as shuttle buses. Dupont Industries, a private company, restores older RTS models to working condition, saving them from scrapyards.


     



     

    Disney Transport NovaBus RTS equipped with new TV Screens


     


    Driving Experience: Operators of the RTS note that the bus handles like a "throwback" like buses of the past. This is mostly due to the unchanged construction and limited electronic assistance. Most RTS buses are still diesel but some have been converted to run on CNG. The RTS is notable for its turning capabilities because it has no tail swing.


     



     

    Fairfax Connector (Suburban Washington DC) NovaBus RTS. Recently sold at auction and has been converted to be a Party Bus.


     

    The RTS has earned its place in among the Transit Greats becoming an icon over time.


     

    RTS


     




     





  8. Stalliongrad
    8 out of the 12 counties which form the Denver-Aurora-Boulder Combined Statistical Area are serviced by an agency known as the Regional Transportation District. Organized in 1969 and beginning operations in 1972, RTD serves an area of over 2 million people as this is the 16th most populous metropolitian area in the United States.
     



     

    RTD Orion V


     
    Type: Public
     
    Fleet Size: 240 Low Floor Buses
     
    Routes: 138
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: The bulk of RTD's bus fleet is composed of Orion and Gillig models which are being slowly retired from service to be replaced by an order of New Flyer Xcelsior XD models, some of which entered service in 2014. RTD's Light Rail services are carried out by older Siemens rail cars.
     



     

    RTD Gillig Advantage


     
    Fare Collection: There is currently only a limited Contactless Card Payment System in Denver-Aurora sold to employers to give to employees and colleges to give to students. A card for the general public is being developed by Xerox expected to be released soon. RTD's current fare structure is extremely archaic in that it still uses zone pricing a practice which fell out of favor in the early 90's.
     
    Livery: RTD livery typically consists of a white backdrop hosting themes of Blue with Red, Orange and Yellow striping. RTD does sell the sides of its fleet for advertising space.
     
    Innovations: Notably unique to RTD, buses in its fleet are fitted with special "Yield" turn signals which alerts drivers to give way to turning buses as per Colorado Law under which, yielding to buses is required.
     



     

    RTD Gillig Advantage (Note the Yield Light)


     


    RTD Denver New Flyer Xcelsior XD60


     




  9. Stalliongrad
    The Alaska State Troopers are the State law enforcement agency for the State of Alaska and provide almost every type of policing service due to the diverse landscape that is the 49th State.


     



     

    Alaska State Troopers Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor


     
    Agency Quick Facts:
     
    Formed: 1967
     
    Policing Style: State Police, Wild West Lawman Style
     
    Jurisdictional Authority: State of Alaska
     
    Size of Watch: 736,732 Residents
     
    Headquarters: Anchorage, Alaska
     
    Oversight and Accountability: Alaska Department of Public Safety
     
    Authorized Strength: 650 Troopers, 300 Civilian Staff
     
    Police Stations: 43 Trooper Posts
     

    The Alaska State Troopers perform statewide law enforcement, crime prevention, apprehension of wanted persons as well as search and rescue operations. The Alaska State Troopers function similarly to most of the other State Police Agencies in the Lower 48 States but perform duties not commonly found elsewhere because of the unique and dynamic landscape Alaska provides.
     
    Patrol: Policing in most states is divided by City, County and State. Unlike all states in the Lower 48, Alaska does not have Counties and therefore no County Level Law Enforcement. Some of the larger cities in Alaska do maintain their own small city police force but they are often unable to deal with certain situations alone because they simply do not have the manpower or equipment. This means that the Alaska State Troopers are often the primary law enforcement in almost all of the state. The Troopers can be summoned by other law enforcement agencies for assistance. Most State Troopers in the Lower 48 are often only found on State Highways and primarily enforce traffic law and serve warrants. The Alaska State Troopers provide standard patrol duties as well, something most State Troopers don't do because these duties are often handled by County Level officers. Alaska State Troopers are also Game and Wildlife Officers with the power to enforce wildlife laws as well. This is something most other states create a separate division for.
     



     

    Alaska State Troopers are stationed in one its five detachments which can cover hundreds of miles. Some detachments can only reach their patrol areas by Plane, Boat or off road vehicle. Alaska State Troopers are trained to handle nearly all emergency calls they receive alone because it does not have the manpower to effectively cover the State of Alaska. A Trooper calling for backup might have to wait 30 minutes or longer before another Trooper can respond. Alaska is one of the states with the highest rate of gun ownership in the country, nearly 60% of all residents in Alaska are armed and this means almost everyone a Trooper comes in contact with is armed with either a gun or knife. The Alaska State Troopers also maintain specialized divisions.
     
    The Alaska Highway Patrol focuses primarily on traffic enforcement and crash investigation. The Highway Patrol educates the public about highway safety and the dangers of driving while drunk.
     
    The Alaska Wildlife Troopers focus on laws surrounding Hunting and Fishing which is a very important to life in Alaska. Wildlife Troopers ensure hunters and fisherman are harvesting animals legally and that the natural habitat of Wildlife in Alaska is not disturbed.
     
    The Alaska Bureau of Investigations conducts major investigations into serious crimes such as Homicide and Rape.
     
    Rank Structure and Uniform: Officially, Alaska State Troopers are referred to as "Trooper" as opposed to "Officer". Troopers can advance to Senior Trooper, Corporal as well as Sergent. Uniforms host shades of blue and navy blue with gold stripes on the pant legs. Troopers are given dark blue utility vests and wear blue "Smokey Bear" hats or baseball caps. Wildlife Troopers are given brown shirts to better blend in with the environment.
     



     

    Alaska State Trooper Christopher Havens and K9 Trooper Helo


     

    Fleet: Because Alaska provides a very unique and different driving environment, vehicles of the Alaska State Troopers differ significantly from those used in the Lower 48. Standard Ford Crown Victoria and Dodge Chargers are modified to perform better off road. During the Winter months Alaska has near 24 hour darkness and as such Alaska State Troopers have fitted powerful external fog lamps to help Troopers see on the often unlit back country roads. The Alaska State Troopers make use of the Ford Expedition and newer Explorer for its SUV's which are stationed for normal patrol where the majority of roads are unpaved. Wildlife Troopers utilize the Ford F-250 Pickup truck to carry smaller off road vehicles and snowmobiles to get them to very remote areas.
     



     

    Alaska State Troopers Ford Expedition


     
    Tactics: Alaska is home to many people who do not want any interaction with other people and especially the government. Residents also are often heavily armed this means Troopers are trained to operate alone, but when serious threats are reported Troopers respond in groups of 5 or more to present overwhelming force to counter threats. In rural Alaska it is reported that almost 90% of all crime is Alcohol related meaning Troopers must also have patience when dealing with intoxicated persons.
     
    In the rural villages, the Alaska State Troopers do not have a permanent presence because the population is not large enough for a Trooper post. To fill this gap in coverage, the Troopers organize a division of deputized individuals who have police powers but are not armed. These are known as the Village Public Safety Officers. VPSO's are often the only law enforcement in the most remote areas. VPSO's can arrest people, but when serious crimes take place they can summon Troopers to assist them. However it make take a day or before a Trooper arrives because some villages are only accessible by plane and the nearest Trooper post can be a hundred miles away. Some VPSO's are responsible for more than one village.
     



     

    Village Public Safety Officer Mike Myers


     


    The Alaska State Troopers are featured on their own TV show on the National Geographic Channel


     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3VuAT58_zM

  10. Stalliongrad
    Compression Brakes are secondary braking systems designed to prevent Air Brakes from overheating and brake fade.
     




     

    "Smokey And The Bandit" 1973 Kenworth W900 "The Snowman"


     
    Also known as Engine Brakes or Jacobs "Jake" Brakes these devices work by releasing the pressure from the combustion chambers, thus slowing the engine, thus slowing the truck. Trucks pulling heavy loads of the legal 80,000 pound limit (90,000 in Canada) take a heavy told on the brakes. Prolonged use of the standard air brake system can cause the brakes to overheat and become useless creating a condition known as brake fade. This typically happens when trucks pulling heavy loads must negotiate steep grades down hill. Activating the Jake Brakes slow the truck with out creating wear on the air brakes.
     



     

    Sign Posted Prohibiting Truckers From Activating Jake Brakes


     
    When Jake Brakes are used the sound of the pressure leaving the engine creates a loud overbearing (but cool) noise. This is often the the fluttering sound that can be heard before trucks come to a stop. Some cities and towns have passed ordinances which prevent truckers from using Jake Brakes while in city limits and residential areas. Their use on the highway however is allowed. Coach buses can also be fitted with Jake Brakes but because buses are in city limits more often than trucks they are often fitted with Engine Retarders or Braking Retarders instead.
     


    Truckers Having Fun With A Jake Brake


     




     


    Trucker Using Jake Brakes on a Steep Grade


     




  11. Stalliongrad
    The worlds largest airline and United States Flag Carrier, American Airlines has been flying the skies since 1930.
     



     

    American Airlines Boeing 777-300ER


     

    Type: Private
     
    Fleet Size: 945 Aircraft
     
    Routes: 344
     
    Air Operators Certificate Number: AALA025A
     
    Call Sign: American
     
    IATA Designator: AA
     
    Hubs:

    Charlotte Douglass International Airport (CLT) Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Miami International Airport (MIA) Ronald Regan Washington National International Airport (DCA) O'Hare International Airport (ORD) Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)

    Alliance: Oneworld (Founding Member)
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: Procuring from domestic manufacturers since its inception and taking great pride in the airplane as an American invention, American Airlines primarily procured from McDonnell Douglas before it merged with Boeing. American Airlines is undergoing its largest fleet renewal in its history with over 350 Aircraft on order from Boeing, Airbus and Embraer. The oldest planes in its fleet about 90 McDonnell Douglas MD-82 and 83's will be retired in 2017
     



     

    American Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner


     
    Fare Collection: Tickets can be purchased at any airport or online and feature American Airlines branding as well as Oneworld alliance branding. TSA Pre-Check status is displayed making entering the terminal and gates much faster passengers who elect to use that service. Starting in 2015 American Airlines boarding passes retain a new template with easier to read information. Purchased and complimentary in-flight services are displayed on the ticket as well.
     



     

    New American Airlines Boarding Pass Template


     
    Frequent Flyer Program and First Class Arrangments: American Airlines loyalty program is known as AAdvantage and it is the oldest program as well as the largest with over 67 million members. After the De-regulation of the Airline Industry in 1978 American Airlines began to look for ways to offer benefits to repeat customers. Members of AAdvantage gain access to various lounges and other facilities depending on the tier of membership. American Airlines was the first to offer co-branded credit cards with Citi-group. Members who reach 2 million miles receive lifetime platinum status.
     



     
    Livery and Tail Flash: American Airlines rebranded itself in 2013 after its merger with U.S. Airways (making it the worlds largest airline) with a new logo and brushed silver paint scheme. Its widely regarded as one of the best looking flag carriers in the skies. The new American Airlines Tail Flash features the American Flag rather than the previous "AA" logo.
     



     

    American Airlines Boeing 737-800 at Dallas-Fort Worth


     
    Innovations: American Airlines serves 4 continents and more international destinations than any other airline in the United States. During World War II American Airlines used the Douglas DC-3 and called its aircraft "Flagships". This is the reason today its exclusive lounge is called "The Admirals Club". In its long history American Airlines acquired over 80 smaller airline companies to expand service even farther than was previously capable.
     


    American Airlines Boeing 777-200 Leaving Chicago


     




     


    American Airlines 777-300ER Leaving London


     




  12. Stalliongrad
    Founded by the Canadian Government as Trans-Canada Airlines, Air Canada is the flag carrier of Canada and 9th Largest Airline in the world and was voted best North American Airline by Skytrax.
     



     

    Air Canada Boeing 787 Dreamliner


     

    Type: Formerly Public, Privatized in the 1980s
     
    Fleet Size: 176 Aircraft
     
    Routes: 182
     
    Air Operators Certificate Number: ARNF245C
     
    Call Sign: Air Canada
     
    IATA Designator: AC
     
    Hubs:
    Calgary International Airport (YYC) Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) Edmonton International Airport (YEG) Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG) Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

    Alliance: Star Alliance (Founding Member)
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: The majority of Air Canada's fleet consist of wide body aircraft from Boeing and Airbus. Older Embraer will be decomissioned by the end of 2015. Air Canada's short range flights were typically handled by smaller aircraft produced by defunct manufacturers such as McDonnell Douglas and Lockheed. Air Canada procures smaller aircraft from its domestic supplier Bombardier.
     



     

    Air Canada Airbus A320 Landing in Montreal


     
    Fare Collection: Tickets are purchased at any Air Canada terminal or online and feature Air Canada and Star Alliance branding.
     



     

    Air Canada Boarding Pass for a flight leaving Toronto to Los Angeles


     
    Frequent Flyer Program and First Class Arrangements: Air Canada's loyalty program is managed by a third party and is known as Areoplan. Like many other airlines Air Canada passengers can collect miles with the use of a specialty credit card. Some Air Canada flights have a separate tier known as "Executive Economy Class" featuring amenities like XM Satellite radio.
     
    Livery and Tail Flash: Air Canada's fleet maintains a white backdrop to house a red typeface. Air Canada regional flights and cargo flights host special markings. Air Canada as the Flag Carrier for Canada uses the Maple Leaf on its Tail Flash design.
     



     

    Air Canada Boeing 777 at Vancouver International Airport


     
    Innovations: Air Canada began tapping into the American market by offering American passengers flights to European cities which do not have direct connections from the United States by offering American passengers a quick layover in Canada before proceeding to Europe. This has boosted revenue for Air Canada greatly.
     

    Air Canada Boeing 777-300ER in Japan


     




     





  13. Stalliongrad
    The GM New-Look was the iconic North American Transit Vehicle. Produced from 1959 to 1986 more than 44,000 buses served across the United States and Canada. Nicknamed the Fishbowl because of its Six Piece Circular Rounded windshield, The Fishbowl is the North American transit king it is as iconic as the AEC Routemaster is in the UK.
     



     

    Toronto Transit Commission GM Fishbowl


     



     


    Manufacturer Quick Facts:


     

    Founded: 1901



    Main Office: Detroit, Michigan



    Industry: Trucks and Buses



    Notable Product: GM New-Look, GM Old-Look, GMC Topkick, CCKW, DUKW, Sierra, Yukon, Terrain


     




     

    WMATA GM Fishbowl


     

    Model Quick Facts:


     

    Vehicle Length: 29ft, 35ft or 45ft



    Vehicle Width: 96 or 102 inches



    Vehicle Height: 121 inches



    Engine Options: Detroit Diesel 6V71, Detroit Diesel 8V71 or Detroit Diesel 6V92TA



    Transmission Options: 4 Speed Non-Synchromesh Manual Transmission, Allison VH 1 Speed Automatic, Allison VS-2 2 Speed Automatic or Allison V730 3 Speed Automatic



    Assembly: Pontiac, Michigan, United States, London, Ontario and Saint-Eustache, Quebec Canada


     



     

    New York Bus Service GM Fishbowl


     
    Overview: 44,484 GM Fishbowls were produced with 33,413 produced in the United States and 11,071 built in Canada. GM produced the fishbowl as an update to its older bus offerings. The difference with the Fishbowl lies within its construction. The Fishbowl did not utilize a traditional ladder frame which is still common in bus construction today, the Fishbowl was built using airplane style stressed skin construction which wrapped around a wooden floor. Uniquely, some variants had the engine bay hanging from the rear of the roof line. GM's odd design quirks paid off as the Fishbowl actually weighed less than many of its competitors at the time. It was produced in two main configurations known as Transit and Suburban. Transit Buses were typical transit style buses with two doors and the Suburban variant had all forward facing seats, luggage bays and only one door. DC Transit, WMATA's predecessor was the first transit agency to field the Fishbowl.
     




     

    Chicago Transit Authority GM Fishbowl


     
    Driving Experience: The Fishbowl is an archaic driving experience. These buses did not have the creature comforts that modern buses have equipped as standard. For the driver the biggest noticable difference will be with the steering. Fishbowl's did not have power steering making turning the bus a very physically strenuous activity. This is typically why for a long part of American history bus drivers were always depicted with large arms. The drivers compartment is also noticeably smaller with the controls crammed into the far left corner.
     



     

    Santa Monica Municipal Transit GM Fishbowl


     
    A GM Fishbowl was the subject of the 1994 action movie Speed in which an Ex-Police Officer terrorizes a young SWAT officer by placing explosives on the bus, and once the bus reaches 50 mph the bomb activates. If the bus drops below 50 mph the bomb explodes forcing the bus to race through the streets of Los Angeles while the officers attempts to disarm it.
     

    Final Day of TTC GM Fishbowl's in Service


     




     

    NYCTA GM Fishbowl


     




  14. Stalliongrad
    New Jersey Transit is the Third largest public transportation network in the United States, it serves the State of New Jersey, Manhattan, Orange and Rockland Counties in New York State as well as Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania.
     



     

    NJ Transit NABI LFW


     
    Type: Public, Owned by the State of New Jersey
     
    Fleet Size: 3,502 Buses, 1,078 Commuter Rail Rolling Stock, 93 Light Rail Vehicles
     
    Routes: 11 Express Commuter Rail Lines, 3 Light Rail Lines, 267 Regular Bus Routes
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: The bulk of NJ Transit bus operations focuses on routes which are slightly longer and as such utilize transit style highway coaches instead of low floor transit buses. The bulk of the fleet comes from MCI. NJ Transit also procures from NABI, NovaBus and Neoplan. NJ Transit is also notable for its continuing use of the Flxible Metro B. NJ Transit is working to procure an all CNG fleet with newer buses having engines supplied by Cummins Westport.
     



     

    NJ Transit Flxible Metro B


     
    Fare Collection: NJ Transit does not utilize a Contactless Card Payment System and typically requires exact cash fare to purchase tickets. In 2011 NJ Transit became the first Transit Authority to accept payment using Google Wallet. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey utilizes a card known as SmartLink. This card is often the subject of debate as it could be implemented for use on NJ Transit as well as MTA in New York City. It however has been estimated to cost over $100 Million to implement.
     



     

    NJ Transit Ticket Machines


     
    Livery: NJ Transit buses have always carried "The Rainbow" on a white backdrop. The Fleet recently received an update as the "Rainbow" is more curved on newer vehicles. NJ Transit does sell the sides of its vehicles for advertising space.
     



     

    NJ Transit NABI LFW (Note the "Rainbow" has been moved toward the rear)


     
    Innovations: NJ Transit leases a fair majority of its fleet to be operated by private companies. This gives large private coach companies like Coach USA and Academy Bus an avenue to try out fixed route public bus service. A Hybrid of Publicly owned vehicles being operated by a privately owned company is not rare, its given a significantly "British" style of public transport because of the use of private companies.
     



     

    NJ Transit NovaBus RTS operated by Coach USA


     

    NJ Transit at work


     




     




  15. Stalliongrad
    BYD is a Chinese automotive conglomerate which manufacturers everything from Bicycles and Passenger Cars to Buses and Heavy Duty Commercial Trucks. BYD has attempted to gain market share in Europe and North America with mixed results.


     




     

    BYD K9 undergoing testing trials in Germany


     

    Manufacturer Quick Facts:


     

    Founded: 2003



    Main Office: Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China



    Notable Product: K9, F0, F6, G6, M6


     



     

    BYD K9 undergoing testing trials in New York City


     
    BYD after years of struggling to get a passenger car to meet US NHTSA safety requirements was directed by its U.S. office to explore the idea of exporting the BYD K9 to the United States. The move was a success as BYD (and most other Chinese auto companies) are better at producing heavy equipment over passenger cars. The BYD K9 is an all electric bus powered by iron-phosphate batteries and gives off no emissions. The only alteration needed to make the K9 road legal in the United States was a slight change in the front and rear bumpers to make them DOT compliant.
     



     

    BYD K9 undergoing testing in London


     
    BYD launched an international campaign around the K9 offering a test model to any major transit company or authority interested in a Zero Emissions bus to add to their fleets. The PR campaign was successful and BYD sold many units internationally. In the US most K9 models are used as Airport shuttles or by smaller transit authorities. The K9 has the longest range of any electric bus on the market currently at 155 miles before a 4hr recharge is needed. The K9 is also cheaper than most domestic models as it sells for around $395,000 compared to the standard $500,000 price tag American and Canadian models cost. That along with no longer needing to purchase diesel fuel has made the K9 very attractive.
     

    BYD K9 in New York City


     




     

    BYD K9 in London


     




  16. Stalliongrad
    The Eurostar is a high-speed rail service connecting to London, Paris and Brussels by way of the channel tunnel. It is one of the most widely used method of transport surpassing even the airlines in number of passengers.


     



     

    British Rail Class 373/TGV TMST


     
    Type: Private, Previously owned by a union of British and French companies which have now unified to form 1 company called Eurostar International Limited.
     
    Service: Passenger
     
    Fleet Size: 38
     
    Routes: The Eurostar operates on 4 Mainline high-speed routes. LGV Nord is a 207 mile long French high-speed rail line which connects Paris to the Belgian border. The Channel Tunnel is the most crucial part of the route as it is the only rail line which connects the United Kingdom to Mainland Europe, Speeds in the tunnel have been reduced to 100 mph because of safety concerns. HSL 1 connects LGV Nord to Brussels. High Speed 1 is a 68 mile long rail line which connects London to Kent, where the British end of the Channel Tunnel begins. Combined these lines make up the bulk of the Eurostar Network. Extensions to Disneyland Paris and the Alps are made on a seasonal basis.
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: The train sets used are British Rail Class 373/TGV TMST rolling stock which have been extensively modified with additional fireproofing in case of fire in the tunnel. They are modified French TGV train sets capable of speeds of 186 mph. These units were built in 1992 and have undergone refurbishment. Eurostar announced that Siemens would be the preferred bidder to provide new train sets marking the German entry into the dominant Anglo-French High Speed Rolling Stock market. Siemens will deliver a new variant of the famed Velaro which is used on German ICE service.
     



     

    Eurostar British Rail Class 374/Siemens Velaro e320


     
    Trackage Rights, Right-Of-Way Agreements and Class: Because the Eurostar operates at speeds of 186 mph it must be given priority over slower moving trains. The Eurotunnel is a separately owned company which also operates its own train service shuttling passengers and their vehicles to and from the British Isles and Mainland Europe. Right-Of-Way depends on which country the train is operating in but all of the countries involved along the route have dedicated High-Speed Rail lines only the Eurostar and similar trains may use, keeping them on schedule.
     



     

    Eurostar British Rail Class 373/TGV TMST at Paris Gare Du Nord


     
    Fare Collection: Tickets for the Eurostar are sold by the railways operating along a specific portion of the route. UK passengers by from British Rail and French passengers purchase from SNCF, the French Railways.
     



     

    French Eurostar Ticket sold by SNCF


     



     

    British Rail Eurostar Ticket


     
    Livery: The Eurostar livery since service began maintained a Yellow/White/Blue paint scheme. Since the 373 units have been refurbished they have received a newer livery where blue is more dominant. Newer Siemens units will also use this scheme.
     



     

    Eurostar British Rail Class 373/TGV TMST in post refurbishment livery


     


    Eurostar


     




     





  17. Stalliongrad
    Stobart Group is the largest logistics company in the United Kingdom which operates nearly all types of freight transportation, moving cargo across the UK and some parts of mainland Europe.


     



     

    Eddie Stobart Scania R440 Highline "Linda Ellen"


     

    Type: Private, initially founded as a humble trucking company and expanded to own and operate Air and Rail cargo services
     

    Service: Truckload Sized Freight, Multimodal Air and Rail Freight
     

    Fleet Size: 2,200 Tractors
     

    Terminals: 50 across the United Kingdom and Mainland Europe
     

    Routes: Eddie Stobart operates across the entire British Isles and routes into Western Europe
     
    Manufacturers and Powerplant: Eddie Stobart trucks come from Scania, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz and MAN. Stobart must constantly rotate its fleet to keep their engines complaint with European Union emissions standards which change frequently.
     



     

    Eddie Stobart Volvo FH16 "Skye Heather"


     
    Fare Collection: Like in North America, Eddie Stobart moves freight after contracts have been negotiated. Stobart focuses heavily on dedicated contracts which are often the hardest to maintain because dedicated contracts often involve Time Sensitive cargo. Stobart moves freight for Britain's largest retailers and grocery stores.
     



     

    Eddie Stobart Scania G400 "Adria Lynn" pulling a trailer for Tesco (the British equivalent to Wal-Mart)


     
    Livery: Stobart trucks since the beginning of the company have maintained the famed Green, White and Red livery. Eddie Stobart trucks are notable for each truck bearing a female name selected from a random lottery. The first Eddie Stobart truck was named "Twiggy" after the 60's supermodel.
     



     

    Eddie Stobart Mercedes-Benz Actros "Suki Alanna" and "Autumn Adelaide"


     
    Safety Record and Driving School: Eddie Stobart maintains a driving school to teach individuals the basics of HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle/CDL in US-CAN) driving and strictly monitors the driving behaviors of all its drivers. Stobart maintains a favorable safety record because of these policies as well as incentives such as raises and paid time off for consecutive periods of safe driving.
     

    Eddie Stobart ran its own TV show to display the life of truckers in the UK


     




     

    Eddie Stobart at work


     




  18. Stalliongrad
    Swift Transportation is the largest TL (Truckload) carrier in the United States by freight traveled.


     



     


    Swift Transportation Kenworth T700 at a truck stop in Washington State


     

    Type: Private, Founded in the late '40s and began moving imported steel from Los Angeles to Phoenix in the 50's
     

    Service: Truckload Sized Freight
     

    Fleet Size: 12,400 Tractors, 4,000 Owner-Operator Tractors, 48,600 Trailers
     

    Terminals: 35
     

    Routes: Swift has a large presence across all of North America, operating freely in the U.S. and Canada and fully owns a Mexican subsidiary for operations south of the border.
     



     

    Swift Transportation Freightliner Columbia in a siding


     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: Swift procures trucks from Volvo, Freightliner, Kenworth and International IC. Owner-Operators may bring their own truck into the fleet which may be from a different manufacturer or lease a truck from Swift under an Owner-Operatror contract, at the end of which the driver becomes the owner of the truck. Most Swift trucks make use of the Cummins ISX Turbodiesel. Trailers are procured from Great Dane, Wabash and Hyundai.
     



     

    An Owner-Operator Kenworth T700 in service with Swift Transportation (The truck is owned by the driver and thus not painted in Swift livery, but does carry a Swift Terminal Number)


     
    Fare Collection: Like most TL carriers Swift moves freight after a contract has been negotiated. Swift holds agreements with large big box retailers such as Target and Home Depot for dedicated freight lines.
     



     

    Swift Transportation Volvo VNL 670 on a Dedicated Freight Run under contract with Target


     
    Livery: Swift trucks are known for their unpainted white livery with the Swift corporate logo. Newer Swift trucks are becoming partial to blue and gray paint schemes. Each truck also carries its own fleet number issued by its home terminal.
     



     

    Swift Transportation Freightliner Cascadia shunting a trailer at a Swift Terminal


     
    Safety Record and Driving School: Swift operates 4 company owned CDL driving schools to teach
    new recruits the basics of Class A driving and to help these rookies gain their CDL in exchange for working for Swift for a predetermined amount of time. Swift is known in the trucking community for having relatively low hiring standards and a very high driver turnover rate. Because of these factors Swift safety records tend to suffer. Accidents are commonplace at Swift because of the high amount of novice drivers it employs.
     

    Swift drivers making rookie mistakes


     




     





  19. Stalliongrad
    The Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority operates a bus service for Greater Orlando and surrounding areas under the brand name Lynx, taking on 30 million riders annually.
     




     


    Lynx Orlando Gillig Low-Floor BRT


     
    Type: Public, organized by the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority
     
    Fleet Size: 300 Low-Floor Buses
     
    Routes: 88
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: Lynx operates primarily lower cost transit buses built for primarily suburban duties. Most of the Fleet consists of the Gillig Low-Floor and its newer variant the BRT. Older NABI and Neoplan models are still in service. The fleet is powered by Diesel and Biodiesel fuels.
     



     

    Lynx Orlando Gillig Low-Floor BRT


     
    Fare Collection: Although Lynx does not utilize a contactless payment card, several passes are available to bundle trips on the bus such as 7 day and 30 day passes as well as All-Day passes are available. The Standard Adult fare stands at $2. Lynx operates two routes in downtown Orlando which are entirely free.
     



     

    Lynx Orlando 30 Day Pass


     
    Livery: Lynx buses do not share a common livery other than the trademark Lynx paw print. Lynx Buses are painted from a large palette of pastel colors ranging from Magenta to Mint Green and Pink. This simplicity allows for larger advertising space on the sides of its fleet.
     



     

    Lynx Orlando Gillig Low-Floor BRT


     
    Innovations: Lynx actively educates its riders about how service may be impacted during each hurricane season. Lynx bus stops, uniquely do not feature pictures of buses but rather the corporate Lynx branded paw print and "Routes" are called "Links" making it one of the most uniquely branded transit systems in the country. Newer signs however include a bus on the sign for the benefit of tourists not familiar with the system.
     



     

    Lynx Orlando Bus Stop Flag


     

    From the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority


     

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBBRKx8l2vg

  20. Stalliongrad
    The Ringling Brothers and Barnum Bailey Circus operates two train based circus shows (Red Show and Blue Show) which travel the East and West Coasts respectively. The Circus owns its Rolling Stock and have been performing "The Greatest Show on Earth" since 1907.
     




     
     
     

    CSX No. 8016 General Motors/General Electric EMD SD40-2 Pulling the Circus Train into Tampa, FL


     

    Type: Private
     
    Fleet Size: Typically 60 Cars Per Train (20 Passenger Cars 40 Freight Cars)
     
    Routes: Nationwide
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: Ringling Bros Circus Rolling Stock was acquired from various railroads across the country who sold their old cars due to them closing down. Most cars come from B&O railroad after it went out of service. The Circus does not own a private locomotive instead maintains agreements with Union Pacific Railroad (West Coast) and CSX Railways (East Coast) BNSF Railroad (North West) and Santa Fe (South West) for routes to major cities. Rail cars marked "RBBX" belong to the Circus, others may have been loaned or rented by the railways escorting them.
     




     
     
     

    Ringling Bros. RBBX 40005


     

    Fare Collection: Not Applicable, Train not open to public during travel tours given when show is at rest for one month usually December.
     




     

    Ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson thanks Union Pacific for the use of Union Pacific No. 3985 Challenger to make history. During a stop in Wyoming to Colorado No. 3985 (The Largest operating steam locomotive in the world) pulled the longest privately owned train in the world making history.


     

    Livery: Originally yellow, the Circus Train is identified by its steel silver rail cars fitted with the red Ringling Bros. Circus signs and posters. Smaller trailers and other vehicles are sometimes painted white.
     



     

    Ringling Bros. RBBX 40003


     
    Innovations: The arrival of the circus train in any major city brings an overwhelming sense of happiness and excitement. The sheer amount of logistics involved in this production are as amazing as the show being performed. The circus employs performers from all around the world as well as full time maintenance workers, catering personnel and veterinary staff to care for the animals used in the show.
     

    The Circus Train


     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHuvVkg_Uw0

     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HAB8vuhEc0

  21. Stalliongrad
    The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada provides transportation services in Clark County as well as the Las Vegas Valley region. Outlying suburbs provide their own service using RTC supplied transit vehicles.
     



     

    RTC New Flyer Xcelsior XN60


     

    Type: Public, Subsidiary of the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
     
    Fleet Size: 408
     
    Routes: 51
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: RTC procures primairly from British manufacturers Wrightbus and Alexander Dennis and are supplemented by vehicles built by New Flyer and NABI. RTC is known to operate articulated, Double Decker and low floor models. Although the majority of the fleet is still Diesel powered, the RTC has begun the transition to alternative fuels.
     



     

    RTC Wrightbus Streetcar RTV


     
    Fare Collection: There is no Contactless Card Payment System in Las Vegas. RTC offers a "Reduced Fare ID Card" Which must be purchased before boarding the bus. Discounts are given to Seniors, Students and Locals riding non-premium service routes.
     



     
     
     
    Livery: Originally branded as "Citizens Area Transit" RTC buses featured a white, magenta and blue paint scheme which was unpopular. After the change over the RTC re-branded the fleet with a new Gold and Blue paint scheme.
     



     

    RTC New Flyer Xcelsior XN60


     
    Innovations: RTC is well known for engaging the community for input on how to better improve the system. RTC is also known for its unique route numbering structure which brands some routes instead of giving them a Number/Letter designation. "The Deuce" is the name of the RTC's Double Decker Service for example.
     



     

    RTC Alexander Dennis Enviro 500


     

    RTC Buses at work


     




     




  22. Stalliongrad
    Recently I embarked on my journey to buying a brand new car! Ive been so busy with doing my research on a whole bunch of different cars and the cost of owning them. So ive had to take a break and go car shopping. Ive decided to take this intermission and share my experiences with you.
     




     
     
     

    Carmax is the largest used car dealer in the United States


     

    Before you even begin to look at cars a few things have to be established first, and only you can do this things, this is one of the first "adult" things most people do.
     
    Establish your budget: I used to sell cars briefly and one of the biggest issues that arise after people find a car they like is that you have to break their hearts and tell them they cant afford it.
     
    Establish a down payment: Save up enough money to put down on the car so that you can get lower monthly payments. If you already have a car, get it appraised so you know how much your car is worth so you can get the most value for your trade.
     
    Establish your credit: Chances are you don't have $20,000 sitting pretty in your bank account. This means more than likely you are going to have to apply for financing. Credit is one of the most difficult aspects of buying a car to overcome. If you don't have credit, lenders are less likely to trust you on if you will pay for the car like you promised. It is very possible to walk into a car dealership with enough proof that you can afford the car, but they wont sell it to you if you have no credit. Then you will have to burden someone to be your Co-signer, this person that will become responsible for your loan if you can no longer make payments. If you have bad credit it means they are taking a risk because of how you managed your money in the past.
     
    Establish New or Used: There are pros and cons to buying a new car and a used car. You have to decide for yourself which is best for you. The obvious benefits to buying a new car are very apparent. But those very pros can become the things you hate about your car a few years down the line. Used cars are cheaper but they have been used by someone else for half of their life. Everyone driving habits are different and those habits if bad, can increase the wear and tear on a car in ways that may not be so obvious.
     
    Establish your Wants and Needs: What kind of car do you want? A 2 seater? A sedan? Maybe a 4X4? If you know what kind of car you want it gives you a place to start when you begin looking. What do you need your car to do? When you decide what kind of car you NEED what you want may not mesh well. If you live in the city and you want a big 4X4 SUV, if you cannot justify the need for such vehicle you may find yourself resenting your choice later on.
     
    Establish an Insurance Quote: Insurance is a necessary of buying a car. By law, you cannot buy a car from a dealer without insuring it first. Unfortunately if you are not careful in choosing the right car Insuring it can be more difficult than actually purchasing the car. Insurance is one of the biggest areas where people can get scammed out of their money. New cars cost more to insure than used cars. If you buy a new car you must carry a higher amount of insurance because if you are still making payments technically you don't own it yet. Two door coupes are more expensive to insure than regular sedans and SUV's and trucks are more expensive than both. Insurance factors many other things you cannot control such as your Zip Code (if you live in a high crime area your car will cost more to insure), your age (younger people are more likely to be "Reckless") Your Gender (Boys are more likely to street race than girls thus insurance rates for men are higher than women) and the age you got your license and how long you've had it (some people get their license at 16 while others may get it at 21, the longer you've had your license with no accidents and tickets the lower your insurance will be). Some companies offer lower rates than others, shopping around for good insurance is a process in of itself.
     




     
     
     

    Chevrolet Dealership featuring new Chevy Cruze and Cruze Eco models.


     

    Beginning your journey: Once you've decided to begin now you need a place to start shopping lets start with those who are looking to buy a new car.
     
    First understand that dealerships operate independently of the manufacturer, typically large companies called Auto Groups run multiple dealerships in one area and typically offer the same buying experience and prices. Darcars, Koons, Passport and Pohanka are examples of Auto Groups. Now you have to choose a manufacturer. Which car company builds cars that catch your eye? Which one builds cars you can afford? Which company builds cars that last? These are all things to take into consideration.
     
    I narrowed my choices to Ford, Toyota and Nissan. I have owned two Toyota vehicles (1993 Toyota Camry and 2003 Toyota Rav 4) which have lasted well beyond the 100,000 mile mark. I have had good experiences with Toyota and it is well known how long their vehicles last. Toyota vehicles are also cheap to repair when things do go wrong and almost any mechanic can work on them (opposed to say Mercedes-Benz or BMW). Nissan's styling department is very good at making cars than you want to be seen in and like Toyota, Nissan vehicles have legendary reliability. However, I stopped looking at newer Nissan models because of the limitations of Transmission options. All new Nissan models feature Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT) which have awkward characteristics and do not mesh well with everyone's driving habits. Theses Transmissions are prone to wear out faster than normal because of their tendency to shift gears more frequently, they also require special expensive fluid and are costly to repair. I decided on Ford because they produce my favorite sports car and an American Icon..... The Mustang..
     




     
     
     

    The All New 2015 Ford Mustang celebrates its 50th Birthday with a brand new design


     

    During the 2009 economic collapse Ford was the only car company that did not take Federal Auto Bailout money. Ford restructured and recovered on its own. Prior to 2009 most Ford models were built in Mexico and this was hard to ignore. Ford closed its plant in Mexico and revamped its production at its plant it Michigan where quality control was easier to monitor. My dream car had finally arrived and i wanted it so bad i went and test drove it without crunching the numbers and my dream shattered. here is some advice so your dream car doesn't crush your spirit.
     
    Understanding trim levels: The Ford Mustang comes in 6 trim levels divided into groups meant to appeal to people who have different wants and needs. Trim Levels are different versions of the same car that include or exclude certain features which effect the final price of the car. One version may be cheap and basic while the top of the line model features all the bells and whistles everyone wants.
     
    The V6 Mustang is the base level of the lineup. It features Ford's SYNC hands free feature which allows you to make commands using your voice, a backup camera and that's about it.
     
    The EcoBoost Mustang is a new addition to the Mustang line which keeps fuel economy at the front of its concerns. Its fuel saving engine makes it more expensive than the V6.
     
    The GT is the Mustang everyone wants, it features the loud and powerful V8 engine and more exterior styling embellishments. This Mustang variant includes everything the lower trim levels have plus the 5.0 V8 engine.
     
    The GT Premium is the Mustang everyone puts on their wall. It also features the big V8 engine and also includes every feature offered. These have bigger wheels, more color options, a body kit and rear spoiler, fog lamps and most importantly Ford's infotainment system called MyFordTouch or SYNC 3 which is only included in top Ford trim levels.
     
    After reviewing the numbers i realized that i could only afford the V6 Base model which i loved and hated. One the one hand its a mustang, on the other its a very boring car that had no extra features. Along with this the cost of Insuring a Mustang is very high. My car insurance would have been more than my car payment.
     
    I decided what i really wanted was a higher trim level in a car that would keep my attention for a long time while also being fun. The MyFordTouch system is what i really wanted. I began to look at the new 2015 Ford Focus.
     




     
     
     

    Like the Mustang the Focus receives a new look for 2015 and comes in several trim levels


     
    The new Focus finally gets the "Aston Martin" grille and front fascia that have made Ford popular again. The Focus is a small/Mid-size car that that stacks up much better than similar cars offered by other manufacturers. The Focus comes various trim levels and is available in a 4 door sedan and a 5 door hatchback. The Hatchback is more expensive and more popular but i prefer the sedan.
     
    The Focus S is the base model and is basic simple transportation and features no additional features and comes with steel wheels with hubcaps.
     
    The Focus SE comes with 16' painted aluminum wheels and comes with Ford Sync as an option. The SE also features automatic headlights.
     
    The Focus SE Hatchback comes with the same as the SE but in Hatchback form and also comes with a rear spoiler the sedan doesn't get at this trim level.
     
    Focus Titanium is the premium trim level for the Focus. It comes with a Sony 10 speaker premium audio system with sub woofer, Sync with the MyFordTouch system, Heated front seats, dual zone climate control, push button start which somes with a smart key fob which can start and control the car without being near it. These models also come with a rear parking sensor to assist with backing. Titanium also comes with more wheel choices, fog lamps and a rear spoiler.
     
    Focus Titanium Hatchback is the same as the sedan but comes with a removable rear tray for the rear cargo area.
     
    The Focus ST is the performance version of the Focus and comes with a high output engine, a 6 speed manual transmission it comes with the Sync and MyFordTouch system as an option, bucket seats, a leather wrapped steering wheel, a front grille and fog lights unique to only the ST model, the smart key, removable rear tray and rear spoiler. The ST is only available as a Hatchback.
     
    Focus Electric comes with most SE and Titanium features and is own such as regenerative braking and its own mobile app created by Ford.
     
    Once i decided which features were most important to me i decided that the Titanium was the one for me.
     



     

    Sync with MyFordTouch


     
    Like most car manufactures Ford invested in creating an "infotainment" system for its cars. Ford contracted Microsoft to develop this technology. MyFordTouch takes most of the physical buttons off of the dashboard and puts the functions into a large 8 inch touch screen.
     
    Divided into 4 quadrants the system controls Phone pairing, Navigation, Radio/Entertainment and Climate.
     
    After crunching the numbers, i could afford the Focus Titanium and its a reasonable price to insure. I will be purchasing mine tomorrow.
     
    But before i locked myself a new car... i looked at the exact same car but one that was Used.
     



     

    2012 Ford Focus Titanium


     
    I looked at the same car used which had many of the exact same features i wanted. The one i looked at was a 2012 model with 60k miles. Fairly low mileage and similar pricing for insurance made me consider this car for a long time. However after reviewing the numbers i found that the numbers for the same car used and new were so close that it would be better to spend $50 more a month for a new car. I also ran the carfax on the used car and found it had been involved in a minor accident.
     
    This is one case where buying new may be a better option.
     
    Buying Used: means that you need to be a bit more knowledgeable because you accept some risk when taking on a car owned by another person. If the previous owner did not maintain the car well you may find yourself stranded on the roadside because of a breakdown. The biggest thing about buying a used car is the source...
     
    Buying from a used car dealer: should give you a bit more security because there is a chance for at least a 30 day warranty. Most larger used car dealers like Carmax only put cars on the lot that pass a difficult inspection. The bigger used car lots tend to have more expensive used cars because of this but this can give you piece of mind that your car will last for years to come. These dealers can also work with you to find a car that fits your budget and will give you financing options.
     
    Buying a used car from an individual: carries the most risk and it is only advisable under certain circumstances. The most common way this is done now is on Craigslist.com. Craigslist is a web based classifieds section where people post their car for sale and agree to meet up with you so you can look at it and buy it. I have done this several times but my criteria was just having A to B transportation. If you just need a car to get you from place to place for less than $1000 this is a fair option. But when your car breaks down you will need to repair it yourself. If you do this i suggest finding a mechanic or family friend knowledgeable about cars to go with you. Pay a mechanic a few dollars to go with you and look at the car to make sure its in good condition. The most important thing to note when you buy a car from an individual is the law. Buying a car this way is considered an "As is" sale meaning if something goes wrong the seller is not obligated to fix anything unless specified in a contract. You are given limited protection when buying from a used car dealer because most states have "lemon laws". These laws state that a dealer must buy back a used vehicle if it experiences severe obvious mechanical or other difficulties within a 30 day period. Buying from a guy off the street doesnt give you this protection.
  23. Stalliongrad
    Compressed Natural Gas has been an efficient means of propulsion since the '60s and typically involves Natural Gas that has been compressed up to 3,600 Psi for storage and fuel.
     



     
    Cummins Westport is the Compressed Natural Gas division of Diesel Engine Manufacturer Cummins Inc. Formed in a Merger between Westport Innovations and Cummins, Westport Innovations is a Canadian developer and refiner of alternative fuels including CNG and LNG technologies. Westport Innovations is best known for pioneering standard Diesel Engines to run on CNG without altering the combustion chambers. Cummins begain to sell CNG engines shortly after this merger in 2013.
     
    Cummins Westport offers 4 Diesel CNG alternatives:
     



     

    Cummins ISX12G


     
    The Cummins ISX12G is a CNG that provides a higher amount of displacement than most other CNGs. Because of this it is one of the most widely used CNGs for Class 8 trucks and is used by Kenworth, Peterbilt and Freightliner in their line up.
     



     

    Cummins ISL G


     
    The 8.9 L Cummins ISL G is the most widely used CNG for medium duty trucks and for School and Transit buses. It is Cummins' most successful CNG to date as most carriers choose this engine to save on operating costs.
     



     

    Cummins C Gas Plus


     
    Due to a revision in a 2010 EPA mandate the C Gas plus is no longer built for the North American market. The C Gas plus is still offered to European customers. The C Gas Plus was the most widely used Cummins CNG for Hybrid applications because it provided an unusually strong torque ratio.
     



     

    Cummins B Gas Plus


     
    As with the C Gas Plus the B Gas Plus is no longer offered in North America due to an EPA mandate revision.
     
    Cummins Conversion Kits allow operators of buses and trucks with older engines to "Refurbish" or "Rehab" them into new engines using CNG.
     




     

    WMATA Orion VII using Cummins C Gas Plus (Highway Driving)


     
     




     

    WMATA Orion VII using Cummins C Gas Plus (Interior Drone and Backfire)


  24. Stalliongrad
    OC Transpo operates transit services for the City of Ottawa and the National Capital Region in Canada utilizing a unique system involving heavy integration.
     



     

    OC Transpo Alexander Dennis Enviro 500


     
    Type: Public, Owned and Operated by the City of Ottawa
     
    Fleet Size: 935 Buses, 88 Para-transit vehicles, 9 Light Rail Vehicles
     
    Routes: 136
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: OC Transpo procures buses from all of the Canadian heavy vehicle manufacturers to include New Flyer, Orion and NovaBus. In 2006 OC Transpo evaluated the use of double deckers built British company Alexander Dennis. The Enviro 500 was tested and integrated into the fleet after a delay caused by a strike in 2008. OC Transpo buses are powered by Biodiesel, Diesel Electric Hybrids and Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel technology.
     



     

    OC Transpo Orion VI


     
    Fare Collection: OC Transpo is part of a Joint Fare Structure but also accepts standard currency. The Contactless Card Payment System in Ottawa is called Presto Card. Presto Card is utilized by transit systems in Southern Ontario to include those in the National Capital Region, the Greater Toronto area and the City of Hamilton.
     



     

    Presto Card and Reader


     
    Livery: OC Transpo selected a Red and White livery along with the Maple Leaf, the most recognizable symbol of Canada. OC Transpo does sell the sides of its fleet for advertising.
     



     

    OC Transpo General Motors T6H-5307N "Fishbowl" (1979)


     
    Innovations: OC Transpo utilizes the Hub and Spoke application of mass transit coupled to fixed routes. This means its emphasis is more on connection between two parts of the city rather than longer traditional routes which tend to be slower. The Hubs often link to OC Transpo's 5 mile (8 km) light rail service known as the O-Train. Expansion of the light rail service is already underway with the Confederation Line which will be completed in 2017

    OC Transpo Alstom Coradia LINT during O-Train Phase I completion ceremony


     
     
     




     




     

    OC Transpo at work


  25. Stalliongrad
    King County Metro operates the 9th largest transit system in the United States with ridership over 114 Million.
     



     

    King County Metro Orion VII


     
    Type: Public, Operated in Alliance with Sound Transit
     
    Fleet Size: 1,835 Low Floor, Articulated and Trolleybuses
     
    Routes: 209
     
    Manufacturer and Powerplant: King County Metro procures buses from various manufacturers such as Orion, New Flyer and Gillig. Due to the hilly terrain in Seattle trolleybuses are needed as they are more effective at negotiating them. King County Metro procures trolleybuses from Italian Rolling Stock Manufacturer Breda. King County Metro also plans to purchase full electric buses from Proterra
     



     

    King County Metro Breda DuoBus


     
    Fare Collection: A common joint fare structure is one of the benefits created in alliance with Sound Transit. The Contactless Card Payment System in Seattle is called ORCA card. (One Regional Card for All). All alliance members of Sound Transit utilize and accept payments with ORCA card.
     



     

    ORCA card and reader


     
    Livery: King County utilizes a Green and Yellow Livery as well as Blue and Yellow and Purple and Yellow liveries denoting different types of service.
     

     

    King County Metro New Flyer Xcelsior XDE35 (Rare Variant)


     
    Innovations: King County like most regions in the Pacific Northwest tend to have the same hilly steep terrain typically found in San Francisco. To compensate for this King County operates one of the largest electric powered fleets in the country and they host the largest fleet of articulated buses in the nation. Oddly King County was initially reluctant to purchase low-floor buses refusing to buy them until 2003. Now the majority of the fleet is low floor. King County Metro is one of the few operators of the 35ft variant of the Xcelsior for suburban duties. King County Metro also hosts a unique type of alighting style known as a Transit Tunnel, where buses and light rail vehicles share the platform.
     



     

    Sound Transit (Alliance) Kenki Sharyo LRV


     
     
     




     

    King County Metro at Work






     

    King County Metro New Flyer Xcelsior XT40 (Rare Experimental Xcelsior Trolleybus Variant)


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