| Status | Active |
|---|---|
| Quantity | 484 |
| Numbers | 6400-6883 |
| Delivery | 2000 |
| Manufacture | Nova Bus |
|---|---|
| Model | LFS |
| Propulsion | Diesel |
| Length | 40' |
| Width | 102" |
| # of Seats | 37 |
| Sign Type | Backlit Flip-dot / LED |
| Amenities | Air Conditioning |
In July 1998, the Chicago Transit Board awarded a contract for the purchase of up to 483 model LFS buses from Nova Bus. The order was CTA’s first large scale order of low floor buses. A prototype bus was delivered in January 2000. The first 6400-series bus was put in service on December 5, 2000.
In addition to low floors, the 6400-series introduced a new interior design scheme for CTA buses. Doing away with the faux wood paneling of the past, the buses feature dual-tone white and gray walls with blue floors.
The first half of the 6400-series order included LED-backlit flip-dot destination signs. Unlike previous flip-dots signs where were lit using a fluorescent bulb, backlit flip-dots are lit through the use of LEDs behind each mechanical dot. Starting with bus #6709, the CTA opted for newer amber LED destination signs which provide maximum reliability and visibility.