Thomas Built Buses announced details of the launch of its second-generation Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley battery-electric school bus. 

Originally introduced in 2017 and now in the second iteration, the flagship electric bus incorporates customer-driven improvements and technological advancements.

The Accelera 14Xe eAxle & Increased Efficiency

At the core of the Jouley's update is the 14Xe eAxle from Accelera by Cummins. A compact, all-in-one power source, the 14Xe eAxle integrates the motor, two-speed transmission, disc brakes and rear-drive gear set into one package mounted on the rear axle. It removes the need for a traditional driveshaft, making the drivetrain lighter, more efficient, and reducing complexity. This design, coupled with Accelera’s ELFA inverter, delivers power directly to the wheels, enhancing acceleration and torque for a smoother ride.

More Performance Featuring the Proterra 800V Battery

The second-generation Jouley is also equipped with an 800-volt Proterra battery system that the OEM says improves startability, gradeability, and acceleration. The higher voltage along with the eAxle performs in diverse terrains, including hills and mountains. The upgrade supports the integration of additional components like air conditioning, heaters, and other essential features without compromising performance.

Streamlined Serviceability

Thomas Built says the streamlined design of the eAxle simplifies maintenance by reducing the number of moving parts and centralizing major components, which leads to lower service costs and improved uptime for school districts.

The improved Jouley electric school bus also features new 12-by-12-inch toe board floor access panel that allow direct access to high-voltage junction box connectors without removing the battery packs. The body heating loop surge tank has been relocated to the left side of the bus, providing even easier access and simplifying maintenance. 

The enhancements are meant to streamline diagnostics and repairs.

New Wheelbase & LCD Display

The second-generation Jouley offers a new 219-inch wheelbase that accommodates up to 60 passengers. Accelera's eAxle enables shorter wheelbase architecture, improving maneuverability and making the bus ideal for navigating tight spaces and fitting into service bays.

Last but not least, the new Jouley's liquid-crystal display (LCD) digital dash supports a wider range of visual information, including crucial diagnostics and operational data, offering a more advanced and intuitive interface. Future updates can be implemented through software alone, enabling Thomas Built to provide ongoing technological enhancements without hardware changes.

“We are proud to introduce the second generation of our Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley, a product that reflects our commitment to innovation, meeting the evolving needs of our customers and driving the future of sustainable student transportation,” said T.J. Reed, president and CEO of Thomas Built Buses. “With features that enhance efficiency, performance and serviceability, the new Jouley delivers unmatched value for both current electric bus operators and new adopters who are ready to embrace cleaner, smarter solutions.”

Production of the second-generation Jouley in the 219-inch wheelbase has already begun. Additional wheelbase options will be coming in 2025.