USA
School bus manufacturer Blue Bird has received its largest order for electric school buses from a single school district. Modesto City Schools in California has purchased 30 All American Type D zero-emission school buses, which will convert almost half of its diesel-powered fleet to clean energy. The school department also expects to benefit from significant cost savings; Blue Bird reports that customers have seen fuel costs of up to 49 cents per mile for diesel buses reduce to an average 14 cents per mile in energy costs for electric buses.
“The price of diesel fuel continues to skyrocket. Our sustainability projects are designed to address climate change, reduce air pollution, and lead the next generation of students in learning about a sustainable lifestyle with renewable energy, carbon reduction, and clean mobility options,” said Tim Zearley, Associate Superintendent of Business Services at Modesto City Schools. “I’m proud that Modesto City Schools is leading the way in public education sustainability initiatives.”
“Blue Bird is recognised as a technology leader and innovator of low- and zero-emission school buses in North America,” added Matthew Stevenson, president and CEO, Blue Bird Corporation. “We are pleased to help Modesto City Schools turn its vision of clean and sustainable school bus transportation into reality. Soon, nearly 30,000 school children in California’s Central Valley will enjoy emission-free transportation and cleaner communities.”
Delivery is expected in the fourth quarter of this year. The Blue Bird buses can carry a maximum of 84 passengers with a claimed range of up to 120 miles on a single charge.
