The Orion hybrid fleet as a whole have some of the lowest MDBF of the entire fleet. They roadcall too often to justify keeping them. That, plus the funding is available to replace them so no point in waiting.
The 25 electrics has not been awarded yet for MTA Bus. It is not expected to be awarded for some time. It’s quite possible that the novas may get moved once that order is awarded.
That order should begin delivery very soon. 8842 is assigned to Queens Village (NOT ON PROPERTY YET).
From what I’ve heard, yes.
Quill will not be getting them. They are doing this because in the event Quill has to get loaners from MHV due to inclement weather, the ops know how to work them.
They will go through the same testing as 11-20. 22 and 23 were pilot buses for the actual production orders and were more for evaluation to make sure the order specifications were met versus performance testing like 11-20.
The D4500CLs are not the only buses being replaced. The D4500CTs at Spring Creek are also being replaced. Plus, the first set of prevosts (1300-1556) also contributed to the replacement of about 20 or so older D4500s, so when you do the math, 508 buses sounds just about right.