Mississauga, Ontario (December 17, 2007) – Daimler Buses North America has received orders totaling 1,052 Orion VII Next Generation diesel-electric hybrid transit buses from some of North America’s largest transit authorities. MTA New York City Transit and the City of Ottawa (OC Transpo) have ordered Orion VII Next Generation diesel-electric hybrid transit buses powered by BAE Systems’ HybriDrive® diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system for delivery into 2010.

“Daimler is focused on shaping the future of transportation through initiatives for greater fuel economy and lower emissions in commercial vehicles,” said Andreas Renschler, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Daimler Trucks Division. “In North America, when conditions are right with public-private partnerships, hybrid vehicles have proven to be an ideal solution in today’s world.”

• MTA New York City Transit and the MTA Bus Company will take delivery of 850 Orion VII Next Generation diesel-electric hybrid transit buses by early 2010. This order will bring the MTA’s diesel-electric hybrid bus fleet to almost 1,700 units, making it the largest diesel-electric hybrid fleet in the world. With this order, Orion brand transit buses will account for almost 50-percent of MTA New York City Transit’s entire fleet.

• OC Transpo has ordered up to 202 Orion VII Next Generation hybrid diesel-electric hybrid transit buses to be delivered by 2010. This delivery will make OC Transpo the third largest hybrid bus fleet in Canada.

The Orion VII Next Generation diesel-electric hybrid transit buses from Daimler are powered by BAE Systems’ HybriDrive® propulsion system. A majority of the deliveries previously mentioned will incorporate lithium-ion battery technology. Compared to standard diesel propulsion, these hybrid buses deliver up to 30 percent better fuel economy while greatly reducing emissions: 90 percent less particulate matter, 40 percent less NOx and 30 percent fewer greenhouse gases. Drivers and riders enjoy a quieter, cleaner and smoother ride.

“Orion has solidified itself as the leading manufacturer of diesel-electric hybrid transit buses in North America,” said Dr. Andreas Strecker, President and CEO of Daimler Buses North America. “As a manufacturer, employer and corporate citizen, it gives us great satisfaction to contribute to energy efficiency and emissions reductions in the cities and communities we are operating in. Further, we are extremely pleased with these new orders and the confidence our customers have in our products and our company. We look forward to delivering these new buses in the coming months.”

About MTA New York City Transit & MTA Bus:
MTA New York City Transit is a public authority in New York that operates public transportation in New York City. MTA New York City Transit operates more buses than any other public agency in North America.

About OC Transpo:
Public transit services in the City of Ottawa are provided by OC Transpo, which now serves a population of over 870,000. OC Transpo’s growing Ridership is approaching 100 million rides annually.