RENO, Nev. — Blue Bird Corporation has unveiled a number of 2015 model year product improvements at the School Transportation News EXPO in Reno, Nevada this week. The enhancements include the industry’s largest propane autogas fuel tank, new clear-lens headlights, new LED clearance lights, a highly adjustable driver’s seat belt system, and enhanced cross-view mirrors. These improvements will go into production in October.
At 98 gallons, Blue Bird’s new optional propane autogas fuel tank provides districts with significantly greater travel range. Along with Blue Bird’s standard 67-gallon propane autogas fuel tank, the new tank is 20 times more puncture resistant than gasoline or diesel fuel tanks and has been tested to over three times its working pressure.
Additionally, the tank is compliant with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)—58 regulations and is certified to American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) standards. Blue Bird’s Propane-Powered Vision is the industry’s most popular and fastest growing alternative fuel school bus in the industry. Just six months into 2013, sales for this propane-powered bus tripled compared to the same period last year.
Adding to the enhancements for the 2015 Blue Bird Vision are new headlights with integrated turn signals. These headlights feature clear-lens technology, which aids driver visibility. The headlights are also easily adjustable—a feature that service technicians will appreciate.
Blue Bird’s upgraded clearance lights feature standard LED technology that offers districts longer life with reduced replacement cycles. This new light is standard on both the All American and Vision product line.
Drivers will ride in greater comfort thanks to the improved standard driver’s seat belt system on the All American and Vision. This new driver’s seat belt provides over 11 inches of vertical adjustment, ensuring that drivers of all sizes can custom align the belt to their specific needs and improve their level of comfort.
Rounding out the new features is the Vision cross-view mirror enhancement. Unique to Blue Bird, the new cross-view mirror bracket allows drivers to view the front part of the bus as well as the warning lights from the driver’s seat. This feature allows drivers to ensure optimal safety.
“Blue Bird is pleased to unveil these new products at the STN Expo,” said Phil Horlock, president and CEO of Blue Bird Corporation. “These customer-led product innovations are a testament to our commitment to providing products that 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.”
For more information regarding Blue Bird’s complete line of school buses, visit your local Blue Bird dealer or www.blue-bird.com
About Blue Bird
Blue Bird offers a complete line of Type A, C and D school buses in a variety of options and configurations. For more than 85 years, Blue Bird Corporation has continued to set industry standards with its innovative design and manufacturing capabilities. Additionally, Blue Bird provides comprehensive financial solutions through Blue Bird Capital Services.
