Starting today, Orion plans to take no additional new orders. Following the fulfillment of current production commitments over the next twelve months, the operating facility in Mississauga, Ontario will be closed, and the facility in Oriskany, New York will continue operations related to parts and field service only. In addition, Daimler expects to continue a retrofit program for current customers at the Oriskany facility. Daimler clearly stands behind all current customer commitments and warranties, and will therefore continue to support all Orion customers' warranty and service agreements through its network of parts and field service representatives in the U.S. and Canada.

"Daimler Buses considered all possible options for reconfiguring our transit bus operations in North America, but at the end of the day, Orion is facing a situation where the cost position is not competitive, the local market is in a continued slump, and growth opportunities are not available from selling the product overseas," said Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses.

"Discontinuing production of Orion buses was a very difficult decision for us to make, but to secure our leadership position we must always strive to invest resources efficiently in support of our global strategy for growth. As part of our lasting commitment to all existing Orion customers, we will make sure a robust parts and service infrastructure continues to provide a high level of service and support."

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