Tools + Tech

SmartRider™.

An industry-first in fully accessible, easy access level boarding from curb to aisle.

New Flyer developed SmartRider™ to create an unmatched accessibility experience for all passengers – enabling buses to kneel to variable heights and minimize the slope difference between a low-floor ramp and bus floor.

SmartRider™ is an advanced smart leveling system, providing unmatched accessibility for all passengers using intelligent kneeling with variable height capability. It uses intelligent technology to kneel and adjust to environmental surroundings and offers optimized boarding from the curb to the aisle. 

 

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SmartRider™

SmartRider™ vs SmartRider™ Plus.

SmartRider™ is available on all Xcelsior® models, in one of two configurations, SmartRider™ and SmartRider™ Plus. SmartRider™ includes basic features on the front axle. SmartRider™ Plus applies to all axle systems, lending additional features such as curb-side kneeling, high ride/low ride and platform-level boarding.

  • Included

  • Optional

Features
Front Kneel
Curb-Side Kneel
Enhanced Roll Stiffness
Over-Raise
Diagnostics
Platform Level
High Ride/Low Ride
Self-Leveling Auto Ramp Deploy
SmartRider™
SmartRider™ Plus
Available with SmartRider™ ramp
Available with SmartRider™ ramp

Why SmartRider™?

The SmartRider™ system is a breakthrough in public transit accessibility, offering:

  • Unmatched accessibility

  • Reduced energy consumption and upgraded components for increased reliability and lower maintenance

  • Stability

    Increased stability and improved sway control

  • Actively maintained ride height on uneven road surfaces

  • Integrated suspension kneeling operation with SmartRider™ ramp to facilitate single operation for accessible boarding to a defined ramp angle.

Benefits of SmartRider™ and SmartRider™ Plus.

These  systems are a breakthrough in public transit accessibility, offering optimized boarding and unmatched line accessibility for all passengers.

  • 1:6

    SmartRider™ and SmartRider™ Plus can achieve a 1:6 slope ratio.

  • Intelligent technology that eliminates the driver’s decision on when and how far to kneel.

  • Obstruction

    Sensors enables ramp to detect an obstruction. Ramp will stop and reverse to a vertical position within the doorway.

  • Intelligent, independent monitoring of controlled wheel positions for enhanced stability.

  • Maintenance

    Easy diagnostics and fewer parts and maintenance with reduced air spring wear, no external linkage, and easily replaceable linear sensors.

How the SmartRider™ ramp system works.

The SmartRider™ ramp and suspension system work together to make ramp deployment and bus kneeling an automated operation. At a single touch of a button, a driver can deploy the ramp to enable the following:

SmartRider™
SmartRider™
SmartRider™ frame
SmartRider™ frame
Vehicle Innovation Center

Learn more about this technology at NFI’s Vehicle Innovation Center.