HIGH POINT, N.C. – Thomas Built Buses (TBB), a leading manufacturer of school buses in North America and a division of Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles, today announced the launch of a new gasoline engine option for the Saf-T-Liner C2 school bus at STN Expo East, taking place March 26–31, 2026 in Charlotte/Concord, North Carolina. The Saf-T-Liner C2 Gasoline is equipped with the B6.7 Octane engine produced by global power leader Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI).
With the addition of gasoline, Thomas Built Buses continues to expand its powertrain lineup — now offering diesel, electric and gasoline options — giving school districts greater flexibility to choose the solution that best fits their fleet goals, infrastructure and operational needs.
“With the Cummins B6.7 Octane engine, fleets gain a dependable solution that complements our proven diesel and electric offerings, giving them more choice in how they operate,” said T.J. Reed, president and CEO of Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles. “We’re proud to expand our lineup with solutions that reflect the real-world needs of school districts — whether that’s simplifying maintenance, managing costs or planning for the future with diesel, electric or now gasoline.”
“Cummins’ longstanding partnership with Thomas Built Buses reflects our shared commitment to delivering safe and reliable transportation for students across the country,” said Nikki Wheeldon, general manager of North America bus sales at Cummins. “The integration of the B6.7 Octane highlights our continued focus on excellence and innovation. Together, we’re driving performance where it matters most.”
The Cummins B6.7 Octane is a purpose-built, durable, turbocharged gasoline engine for medium-duty applications, the first of its kind in the category. With up to 2 million miles logged before production, the engine features a broad, flat torque curve that mirrors Cummins’ trusted B6.7 diesel platform. The B6.7 Octane by Cummins will be available in the Saf-T-Liner C2 Gasoline in 220- and 260-horsepower ratings, delivering up to 600 lb-ft of torque.
Designed to provide familiar drivability and smooth power at low speeds, the B6.7 Octane also introduces an optional integrated compression brake for improved vehicle control and reduced brake wear — an industry-first for gasoline school buses.
In addition to robust performance, the Saf-T-Liner C2 Gasoline delivers key advantages in total cost and serviceability:
Strong fuel economy for lower operating costs.
2-3x longer service intervals, including oil and filter changes up to 15,000 miles.
Runs on regular 87-octane gasoline, making it easy to refuel within existing fueling infrastructure.
Engineered for cold-weather readiness and high idle tolerance, making it well suited for diverse operating environments.
Offers school districts a familiar chassis and body design, helping streamline technician training, maintenance routines and driver familiarity.
“By offering this gasoline option, we’re helping school districts simplify operations, manage costs and maintain reliable, year-round performance,” said Daoud Chaaya, vice president of sales, aftermarket and marketing at Thomas Built Buses. “Built on our trusted C2 platform, it supports technician and driver familiarity while ensuring safe, dependable transportation for students. This addition reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience.”
Production for the Saf-T-Liner C2 Gasoline is targeted to begin in late 2026.
For more information, visit thomasbuiltbuses.com/gasoline.
About Thomas Built Buses:
Founded in 1916, Thomas Built Buses is a leading manufacturer of school buses in North America. Since the first Thomas Built bus rolled off the assembly line, the company has been committed to delivering the smartest and most innovative buses in North America. Learn more at thomasbuiltbuses.com or facebook.com/thomasbuiltbuses.
Thomas Built Buses, Inc., headquartered in High Point, North Carolina, is a subsidiary of Daimler Truck North America LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive products and technologies for the commercial transportation industry. The company designs, engineers, manufactures and markets medium- and heavy-duty trucks, school buses, vehicle chassis and their associated technologies and components under the Freightliner, Western Star, Thomas Built Buses, Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp and Detroit brands. Thomas Built Buses and Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. together form Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles. Daimler Truck North America is a subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, one of the world’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers.
About Cummins Inc.
Cummins Inc., a global power leader, is committed to powering a more prosperous world. Since 1919, we have delivered innovative solutions that move people, goods and economies forward. Our five business segments — Engine, Components, Distribution, Power Systems and Accelera by Cummins — offer a broad portfolio, including advanced diesel, electric and hybrid powertrains; integrated power generation systems; critical components such as aftertreatment, turbochargers, fuel systems, controls, transmissions, axles and brakes; and zero-emissions technologies like battery and electric powertrain systems. With a global footprint, deep technical expertise and an extensive service network, we deliver dependable, cutting-edge solutions tailored to our customers’ needs, supporting them through the energy transition with our Destination Zero strategy. We create value for customers, investors and employees and strengthen communities through our corporate responsibility global priorities: education, equity and environment. Headquartered in Columbus, Indiana, Cummins employs approximately 67,400 people worldwide and earned $2.8 billion on $33.7 billion in sales in 2025. Learn more at www.cummins.com.
