New Flyer opens innovation centre

USA New Flyer of America Inc., the United States (US) subsidiary of New Flyer Industries Inc., has opened its new 30,000 square feet Vehicle Innovation Centre (VIC), which it describes as America’s first innovation lab for advanced bus technology.

It will focus on the environment and sustainable transportation, and will feature advanced research and development capabilities that will evolve electric, autonomous and telematic technologies for bus transit.

“The collaboration between New Flyer, the City of Anniston, and the State of Alabama is a shining example of the power of public private partnerships, which is a key component of US Transportation Secretary Chao’s Innovation Agenda,” said US Federal Transit Administration Acting Administrator, Jane Williams. “We continue to embrace new technologies that will boost our economy and make our transportation safer and more efficient, and I am confident this facility will bolster the transit industry for years to come.”

“At New Flyer, we’re not waiting for the future to happen, we are shaping it,” said Paul Soubry, Chief Executive Officer of New Flyer Industries. “The VIC is not a museum for technology; instead, it is a dynamic, interactive, and progressive place where we can learn, share and work together to drive American public transportation innovation.”

Newly appointed Chair of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Nathaniel P. Ford Sr., said: “Our industry is facing the most significant transformation we have seen in generations. As our customers’ needs continue to evolve, we too must evolve with them, offering real, sustainable solutions that foster growth. The VIC is not just a vital resource for public transportation, it is also an economic catalyst for our nation.”

“New Flyer of America is building on our 87-year legacy of innovation to deliver disruptive transit technology that meets the complex demands of America’s growing communities today and into the future,” said Wayne Joseph, President of New Flyer of America.

“The VIC is our latest investment in delivering safe, efficient, comfortable and sustainable bus technology that Americans can rely on.”

“Anniston is being placed squarely on the map for innovation and technology, and New Flyer is a key part of that,” said Mayor Jack Draper. “I applaud New Flyer for its bold commitment to research and development that will further advance public transportation, which so many Americans depend on.”