September 17, 2026. New Flyer of America Inc., a leading provider of diverse and sustainable mobility solutions and a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc. (NFI), announced an order from the Houston Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO) for 100 Xcelsior® 40-foot compressed natural gas (CNG) buses. The order was added to New Flyer’s firm backlog in the second quarter of 2026.
The purchase, valued at approximately $93 million, is supported by funding from the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) 2025-2026 Low- or No-Emission (Low-No) Program and Bus and Bus Facilities Projects. The new buses will replace end-of-life vehicles, helping METRO support efficient, lower-emission transit service across the Houston region. The initiative is being undertaken in conjunction with upgrades to select METRO facilities that will increase CNG fueling capacity.
“For more than 30 years, METRO and NFI have worked together to support safe, dependable transit for the Houston region,” said Chris Stoddart, President, North American Bus and Coach, NFI. “We’re honored to continue that partnership with New Flyer Xcelsior CNG buses that will help enhance service for riders, support METRO’s ongoing fleet renewal efforts, and continue advancing cleaner public transportation solutions for the communities it serves.”
“CNG allows METRO to deliver the reliable service our customers depend on while operating a cleaner, more efficient fleet,” said Kurt Luhrsen, Interim COO at METRO. “As we replace aging buses, we have an opportunity to reduce emissions and make responsible choices that benefit both our riders and the Houston region. CNG is an important part of that commitment.”