FORT VALLEY, Ga. — Blue Bird Corp. has received engine certification for its 2010 through 2012 model year school buses.

Cummins’ ISB6.7 was recently certified by the EPA and the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and the ISB6.7 is used on Blue Bird Vision and All American units.

In addition, Blue Bird noted that customers are reporting “outstanding results” from selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. The company has manufactured more than 10,000 school buses with the technology.

Coweta (Ga.) County Schools operates 2011 and 2012 Blue Bird Visions. “Our Blue Bird buses with SCR technology provide us with seamless operation," said Keith McCullough, shop foreman for the district. "System maintenance is minimal, with upkeep performed during regular scheduled maintenance intervals. We have zero complaints with our Blue Bird buses."

Judy Gresham, transportation director for Coweta County Schools, added that the district's bus drivers "love their Blue Bird buses."

The ability to deliver the new ratings for the ISB6.7 can be attributed to Cummins’ total system integration with SCR technology, officials said. The system integration, coupled with the base engine, reportedly result in near-zero emissions without compromising fuel economy, reliability or durability.

Cummins said that it is currently the only certified school bus diesel engine manufacturer with ratings that meet the 0.2g NOx standard without the use of emissions credits.

“This accomplishment by our diesel engine partner, Cummins, is excellent news for our school bus customers and fully supports our leadership position in offering green solutions to the school bus industry,” said Phil Horlock, president and CEO of Blue Bird.