Nearly 30 Ohio school district representatives recently rode a 77-passenger Blue Bird Propane-Powered Vision bus to learn about the benefits of riding clean with a domestically produced alternative fuel.

The event was hosted earlier this month by ROUSH CleanTech and organized by Blue Bird dealer Cardinal Bus Sales. It included a 300-mile roundtrip ride between Lima, Ohio, and Livonia, Mich.

“Our customers were amazed by the many benefits of fueling with propane autogas at this event,” said Tony Rumer, vice president of Cardinal Bus Sales. “I really believe that the Blue Bird next generation Propane-Powered Vision is the most affordable and efficient alternative fuel bus in the marketplace today.”

After learning about the ROUSH CleanTech liquid propane fuel system and product platforms, the participants toured the emissions testing dynamometer lab and the manufacturing facility to examine the assembly and quality control processes in place for the propane fuel system’s fuel rails, fuel tanks and Blue Bird engine builds.

“After spending a day with ROUSH CleanTech learning about alternative fuels for school transportation, I have decided propane autogas is the way to go,” said Michael Wilson, transportation supervisor for Shawnee Local School District in Lima. “If I would have known then what I know now, I would likely be taking delivery of a propane powered bus this month instead of a diesel.”

“Blue Bird couldn’t be more pleased that Shawnee Local School District fully recognizes the savings from using our propane-powered school buses,” added Phil Horlock, president and CEO of Blue Bird Corp. “Together with Cardinal Bus Sales, Blue Bird looks forward to providing Shawnee Local School District with all the propane buses they need.”

Officials said that the next generation Propane-Powered Vision, developed through a partnership between Blue Bird and ROUSH CleanTech, reduces carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide and total hydrocarbon emissions and virtually eliminates particulate matter when compared to conventionally fueled school buses.

The bus is powered by the 362 horsepower, 457 pounds of torque Ford 6.8-liter V-10 engine, and meets stringent EPA and California Air Resources Board certification standards.

Other news on Blue Bird and ROUSH CleanTech:

• Blue Bird to reveal redesigned Type Ds

• Driving 'school bus' car, Stenhouse wins NASCAR race