Washington Metro Continues Fleet Modernization with Major New Flyer Bus Order
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, commonly known as Metro, has taken a significant step in its ongoing fleet modernization efforts. The transit authority has exercised options for 100 additional transit buses from New Flyer of America Inc., a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc., as part of its commitment to upgrading public transportation infrastructure across the Washington metropolitan region.
Details of the Substantial Bus Purchase Agreement
According to the announcement made on February 10, 2026, Metro has ordered 75 Xcelsior® hybrid-electric forty-foot transit buses alongside 25 Xcelsior CHARGE NG™ battery-electric forty-foot transit buses. These options are being exercised from New Flyer's substantial fourth-quarter backlog, demonstrating the manufacturer's capacity to meet growing demand for advanced transit vehicles.
The purchase represents a continuation of Metro's strategic partnership with New Flyer and builds upon a base order of 100 hybrid-electric buses announced in February 2025 under a comprehensive five-year contract. This latest acquisition will further expand Metro's existing battery-electric fleet already operating throughout the region.
Funding Sources and Strategic Objectives
The substantial bus purchase will be supported through multiple funding streams, including federal, state, and local resources. A significant portion comes from the Federal Transit Administration's Low or No Emission grant program, which supports transit agencies in transitioning to cleaner transportation technologies.
These new vehicles will replace aging, end-of-life buses in Metro's extensive fleet, providing customers with a modernized and efficient passenger experience. The acquisition directly supports Metro's ambitious five-year Strategic Transformation Plan, which focuses on establishing the authority as the region's most trusted transportation provider while emphasizing safety and operational efficiency.
Leadership Perspectives on the Partnership
Chris Stoddart, President of North American Bus and Coach at NFI, emphasized the longstanding relationship between the two organizations. "New Flyer is committed to continuing our decades-long relationship with Metro, providing buses that deliver strong value, reliability, and performance," Stoddart stated. He highlighted how the Buy America-compliant vehicles would not only enhance transit system efficiency and service quality but also support manufacturing jobs and economic opportunities across the United States.
Randy Clarke, General Manager and CEO of Metro, explained the broader implications of the purchase. "These new hybrid and battery-electric buses allow us to replace aging vehicles, improve the customer experience, and continue modernizing our fleet while reducing emissions across the region," Clarke noted. He emphasized that partnering with New Flyer helps ensure Metro delivers safe, dependable service while demonstrating responsible financial stewardship of public resources.
Metro's Position in American Public Transit
Metro operates as America's fifth-largest bus network, providing essential Metrorail and Metrobus services to more than four million residents across 1,500 square miles spanning the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. The authority's Metrobus division maintains a fleet of approximately 1,500 buses that facilitate approximately 124 million annual passenger trips.
The transit authority's commitment to excellence was recognized in 2025 when the American Public Transportation Association named Metro the Outstanding Public Transit Agency of the Year, highlighting its leadership in the public transportation sector.
NFI's Role in Sustainable Transportation Solutions
NFI Group leverages 450 years of combined industry experience to offer a diverse range of propulsion-agnostic bus and coach platforms, including market-leading electric models. Through its comprehensive portfolio of low- and zero-emission buses and coaches, along with supporting infrastructure and technology solutions, NFI addresses contemporary urban demands for scalable smart mobility options.
The company's broader mission focuses on enabling more livable cities through connected, clean, and sustainable transportation systems that benefit communities while reducing environmental impact.
