SCHAUMBERG, Ill. Motor Coach Industries expanded the way it communicates with its customers last month by conducting its first on-line seminar.

Such educational forums, conducted via the Internet, are called Webinars, and MCI said it plans to conduct more, giving operators a new option for staying up to date on new coach technology and sharpening their business acumen without leaving their offices.

The company is planning webinars that provide tutorials on subjects ranging from clean-diesel engine regeneration, to how to create a "green" marketing message and stir customer demand.

"Were bringing the classroom directly to our customers," said Patricia Ziska, MCI vice president and chief customer officer. "Were saving them time, money and natural resources by presenting valuable information in an immediate, interactive format."

The first MCI webinar dealt with clean-diesel regeneration and diesel particulate filters; it attracted more than 80 customers.

MCI noted that since there are more than 650 MCI coaches on the road with clean-diesel engines, such an interactive, on-line session was timely and on a topic customers both care about and are interested in.

The webinar was led by MCI field support staff members Scott Crawford and Trevor Olynik, who reviewed the diesel particulate filter system on all three MCI engine options: Cummins, Caterpillar and Detroit Diesel. Participants also could ask questions.

"The content was excellent," said Mike Pjevach of Wisconsin Coach Lines, a Coach USA company. "Its a cost-effective way to train, and we appreciate MCIs efforts and leadership."

Added Ziska: "Our webinars are designed to supplement what weve already established in the way of training. Using the Internet, we can offer MCI operators real-time, value-added business solutions."

The next webinar will be July 9, with others to follow this summer and in the fall. To register or for more information, e-mail marketing@mcicoach.com.