Thomas Built Buses Inc. has now opened up ordering for Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems’ Intellipark electronic parking brake as optional equipment on two of its school bus models.

As previously reported, the school bus manufacturer announced in November 2019 that the parking brake system would be offered on its Saf-T-Liner C2 and as factory-installed standard equipment on its Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley electric bus.

Intellipark is designed to help prevent rollaway and runaway crashes by automatically setting the parking brake if the driver forgets and exits the vehicle without doing so, according to a news release from Thomas Built Buses. When the parking brake is set, the driver must take intentional actions to release the brake, such as pressing the service brake pedal, turning the key to the “on” position and closing the wheelchair lift door (when equipped).

“With new technology like the Intellipark electronic parking system, the risk of rollaway and runaway crashes is significantly mitigated,” said Caley Edgerly, president and CEO of Thomas Built Buses. “Drivers have a lot on their plates, and unfortunately when it comes to operating a vehicle, overlooking one small step can have significant implications. Our hope is that this system can provide an extra safeguard and give drivers, fleet managers, and parents additional peace of mind.”

In addition to the enhanced parking brake technology, Intellipark provides an ergonomic advantage over the current dash-mounted pneumatic brake valve, according to the school bus manufacturer. The new switch still maintains the familiar yellow symbols and text, along with integrated LEDs that indicate the status of the parking brake.

While Intellipark is designed to help drivers mitigate a variety of unsafe situations, the driver remains in control of the vehicle at all times, according to Thomas Built Buses.

For more information on the Intellipark electronic parking brake, customers can contact their local Thomas Built Buses dealer.