USA Blue Bird Corporation has unveiled a number of 2015 model year product improvements at the School Transportation News Expo in Reno, Nevada in July.
Blue Bird claims the enhancements include the industry’s largest propane LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) fuel tank, new clear-lens headlights, new LED clearance lights, an adjustable driver’s seat belt, enhanced cross-view mirrors and new headlights with integrated turn signals. These improvements will go into production in October.
At 98 gallons, Blue Bird’s new optional fuel tank provides districts with significantly greater travel range. Along with Blue Bird’s standard 67-gallon tank, the new tank is 20 times more puncture resistant than diesel fuel tanks and has been tested to over three times its working pressure. The tank is compliant with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – 58 regulations and is certified to American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) standards.
According to Blue Bird, its Propane-Powered Vision is the industry’s most popular and fastest growing alternative fuel school bus. Six months into 2013, sales for this propane-powered bus tripled compared to the same period last year. The bus is powered by a Ford 6.8 litre engine utilising a ROUSH Clean Tech LPG fuelling system.
Phil Horlock, President and CEO of Blue Bird Corporation, said: “These customer-led product innovations are a testament to our commitment to providing products which lead the industry. We regularly receive feedback from customers on how Blue Bird can improve its products – we listen, evaluate the recommendations and make changes. This is part of our culture of being a customer-led company.”
