The conventional powered buses, either with longitudinally-mounted diesel or natural gas engines, used a T-drive transmission coupling.

In the Orion VII Next Generation (VIING), the top of the front door is at the level as the bottom of the standee windows.

[2] The interior floor height is 15.5 inches (390 mm)[1] except for the portion starting at the rear wheels, which is elevated to provide mechanical clearance for the engine and transmission.

[19] In 2013, New York MTA announced plans to convert approximately 1⁄4 of their hybrid fleet to solely conventional diesel power;[20] after the warranty expired, the agency was not willing to bear the cost of traction motor replacement.

The Toronto Transit Commission is another notable operator of the Orion VII, having purchased buses in both diesel and series hybrid diesel-electric propulsion configurations between 2002 and 2012.

As of 2025, the Orion VII buses remain in service and maintained at Arrow Road, Malvern, Mount Dennis, Queensway and Wilson garages.