Atlantic Express Transportation Corp. has purchased 25 Collins Bus Corp. Type A propane-powered buses for its Los Angeles Unified School District contract. 

The buses are built on General Motors chassis with liquid propane injection systems by CleanFuel USA.

"With the help of the California Energy Department, we are going to be operating buses that pollute less and save money for the school district," said Domenic Gatto, CEO of Atlantic Express.

Officials say propane offers school districts and contractors several advantages, including lower fuel costs, lower greenhouse emissions than gas or diesel, extended oil life and longer engine life from lower carbon production.

Kent Tyler, president of Collins, noted, “Atlantic Express is an important customer for us, and they operate our buses at multiple locations across the country. They should be applauded for their efforts in converting to clean-fuel technologies.”

The propane buses are being built at Collins' facility in South Hutchinson, Kan.

Atlantic Express holds contracts with school districts throughout the country. The company also provides paratransit services for physically and mentally challenged passengers, and offers fixed route transit, express commuter line and charter and tour bus services.