MCI D-Series

Background and Development Several changes in the industry in the late 1980s and early 1990s led to the development of the D-Series coach. First, was the growing calls to allow 45 ft coaches (at the time prohibited by US law), second was that MCI's existing models were designed to use two-stroke engines and the company was looking to offer the new Detroit Diesel Series 60 four-stroke engines, and third was 1988 Canadian government request to develop a wheelchair accessible intercity bus. The bus was quickly adopted by private companies operating scheduled service (like Greyhound Lines) or commuter buses. A version of the D-Series, the 102-D3 was introduced in January 1994, replacing the B and C-Series models in the MCI product line. At about the same time that the 102-D3 was introduced, MCI also started offering an ISTV (Inmate Security Transportation Vehicle) a prisoner transport vehicle version of the coach. ISTV models are designed to transport up to 69 inmates and are available with containment cells and a rear officer position. The ISTV only comes in a 40-foot version which better fits existing sally ports at jail and prison facilities. The last legacy D-Series models were produced in 2022 and subsequently discontinued. In 2022, MCI added a D-Series production line to the NFI group factory in Crookston, Minnesota due to the planned and later canceled closure of the Pembina plant. ==Variants==

First Generation (Legacy) The 102-D3 and 102-DL3, entered production in 1994 and 1992 respectively. The model number denoted the width (, exclusive of mirrors), "D" model, the "L" in the model name designates longer length (, nominally), and 3-axle configuration. The models have large, fender skirts and a rear-mounted radiator fan side-by-side with the intercooler fan. It has an air intake covered by a large grille, a two-piece engine door, small headlight/taillights, and a black roof cap. The models are also available with optional stainless steel front and/or sides as well as an optional rubber front bumper. The 102-D3 and 102-DL3 were renamed D4000 and D4500 in 2001. In 2005, MCI started offering a facelifted model of the D-Series called the D4005 and D4505 to private-sector operators. The rear end cap design was updated in 2007 to accommodate new engines that met stricter EPA emissions regulations. Commuter coach models were offered with a large destination sign above the front windows and bi-fold doors. Second Generation (NextGen) The D45 CRT, D45 CRT LE and, D4520 coaches make up the next generation of D-Series coaches, which have a taller body based on the J-Series coach with cosmetic updates. The commuter coach models ditch MCI's traditional alphanumerical naming system and are instead named using a modified alphanumerical naming system. For example" "D" for generation or basic model, "45" for the length, "CRT" for "commuter rapid transit" and "LE" for modes with the Low Entry door. The intercity coach model, the D4520, retains MCI's traditional alphanumerical naming system, with "20", denoting the NextGen D-Series. ==See also==