Motor Coach Industries (MCI) is rolling out significant updates to its J4500 motorcoach at this year’s United Motorcoach Association EXPO, focusing on durability, performance, and lower operating costs.
The 2026 J4500 model comes with more than 20 upgrades aimed at boosting reliability and efficiency. The improvements follow extensive testing to meet the new FMVSS 227 rollover safety standard.
Some of the key updates include:
- A redesigned front junction box door for better protection of electronic components.
- A modernized rear junction box designed to resist corrosion.
- A comprehensive review of hoses and clamping systems to extend lifespan.
- Relocation of the tag axle unload valve for added protection against corrosion.
- Redesigned exterior lighting and sealing gaskets to prevent water leaks.
MCI has also restructured its manufacturing operations, consolidating production lines to build all J- and D-Series models on a common vehicle architecture. The move is intended to streamline maintenance and parts availability, potentially lowering costs for operators.
“We focus heavily on product quality because reliability is what our customers expect,” said Brent Maitland, vice president of private market sales and marketing at MCI. “These updates reflect what we’ve learned from customer feedback and operational data.”
Upgrading support services
In addition to vehicle improvements, MCI has expanded its customer support services. The company has added technical support staff, extended service center hours in Dallas, and introduced mobile service vehicles in Nashville and San Francisco. NFI Parts, which supplies components for MCI and other coach brands, has increased West Coast inventory and adjusted pricing on competitor parts.
The MCI Training Academy now offers over 150 online courses, and the company has expanded its pre-owned coach offerings with a more rigorous inspection process.
“Buying a coach is just the start. Ongoing support and training are critical to keeping these vehicles running,” Maitland said.
MCI will host a customer appreciation event at booth #101 on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. The company is also providing a J4500 coach for the UMA EXPO’s welcome event and maintenance and driver competitions and will present the UMA Environmental Leadership Award during the evening gala.
