Winnebago Industries is entering the mid-size vehicle transportation market with the introduction of the Metro Link bus.
In a press release Winnebago said it spent several years in the design and development phase conducting extensive research involving public transportation operators and industry experts. The result is a new approach to transit bus applications with several features specifically tailored to provide a quieter, better functioning vehicle with reduced maintenance and improved durability, many of which Winnebago intends to patent. That durability is backed with a seven-year/150,000-mile structural warranty.
The Metro Link features a one-piece fiberglass roof, a fully welded, tubular steel framework, high gloss fiberglass side walls and exclusive frameless windows that offer exceptional performance and reduced long-term maintenance. On the inside, the Metro Link offers fiberglass interior walls and a 78-inch center aisle height. Available in a number of passenger configurations, the Metro Link is customizable to meet the wide ranging needs of the transit and paratransit industry.
“Winnebago Industries is excited to enter the bus arena with the introduction of the Metro Link,” said Winnebago Chairman, CEO and President Randy Potts. “This project has been in development for quite some time and we are very excited with the outcome. The Metro Link completed extensive testing at the highly regarded Altoona Bus Research and Testing Center in Altoona, Pa., and surpassed expectations.”
“With its improved functionality, low maintenance design and extremely quiet ride, it promises to be a game changer in the transit bus market.”
Distribution of the new Metro Link will be conducted by Metro Worldwide, a division of the Pritchard Family Companies. In business for more than a century, Pritchard has had a working relationship with Winnebago for 25-plus years. Pritchard has a national presence in the distribution of commercial trucks where it has distinguished itself as a leader in both volume and customer service.
“We are excited to partner with a quality company such as Winnebago Industries. They have designed a revolutionary product for the shuttle bus and transit industry, and we are honored to sell and service their products across the United States and around the world,” said Pritchard Family Companies CEO Joe Pritchard.
