Thomas Built Buses, a division of Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles, today announced the launch of the company's new Saf-T-Liner eHDX2 Wattson, its first electric Type D school bus. 

Built on Thomas Built’s HDX2 platform and designed for districts ready to take the next step in electrification, Wattson draws from years of EV manufacturing experience and customer input to deliver a solution engineered for long-term fleet planning, according to the company.

“Wattson represents our next step in electrification,” said T.J. Reed, president and CEO of Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles. “It reflects our belief that the best electric solutions are the ones that feel familiar, fit within your fleet, and are built to last. That’s what we’ve heard from our customers, and that’s what we’re delivering.”

Wattson is powered by Accelera’s 14Xe electric axle, the same system featured in Jouley Gen 2. The integrated e-axle combines the motor, gearbox, and power electronics into a single, compact unit. This results in smoother driving performance and fewer mechanical parts, which means less maintenance and fewer service disruptions, according to the company.

Wattson's feature highlights include:

• Battery capacity: 246 kWh

• Estimated range: Up to 150 miles

• Charging: Standard SAE CCS1 charging; 2–3 hours at a DC fast-charging station (minimum 60 kW output); V2G-capable system; optional AC/DC SAE J1772 CCS1 charging with 20kW onboard charger for additional flexibility while on the road

• Charging range: 20kW (AC); 120kW (DC)

• Torque and power: 295 peak horsepower; 750 lb-ft of torque

• Two-speed transmission

• Liquid-cooled battery system

• 277” wheelbase

• LCD instrument cluster providing real-time vehicle and diagnostic data

• Optional 69” pass-through luggage compartments for activity or dual-use buses

• Standard rear charging port, with optional front charging available

“We know electrification can feel like a big step,” Reed added. “With Wattson, we’re making that step easier by giving districts a familiar Type D solution they already trust – now in electric.”

Wattson will be available for order by the end of 2025, with initial deliveries scheduled for late 2026.

Type D, or “transit-style” buses, are the largest buses in the industry, featuring a flat front, high seating capacity, and greater visibility for drivers.