SchoolBus logo in red and orange
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Blue Bird to unveil new Type A bus, new technology

Along with the new Micro Bird T-Series bus, Blue Bird will debut an electronic stability control system and a new Propane Vision warranty.

November 11, 2014
2 min to read


KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Blue Bird is scheduled to debut new buses and technology at the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) trade show here on Tuesday.

Among the unveilings will be a new Type A bus model. Blue Bird will debut the Micro Bird T-Series bus line. Company officials said that the new line features a contemporary and ergonomic design that highlights the bus’ narrow body, designed to provide enhanced maneuverability.

Ad Loading...

The bus, offered on a new Ford Transit chassis, has a capacity of up to 25 passengers under 10,400 pounds. Company officials said that the bus offers aerodynamics that support increased fuel economy, maximized driver visibility, optimized driver ergonomics, highly responsive power and striking aesthetics.

Full production on the Micro Bird T-Series is scheduled for spring 2015.

Another debut will be Blue Bird’s electronic stability control provided by Bendix ESP. Company officials said that Blue Bird is the only manufacturer in North America to offer school bus stability technology.

The factory-installed Bendix ESP is an anti-lock brake system based stability technology that recognizes and assists with providing increased stability and control during bus under- and over-steer driving situations. The system utilizes a series of sensors to continuously monitor vehicle parameters, including wheel speed, lateral acceleration, steering angle, brake pressure and yaw rate. The sensors combine to measure driver intent and vehicle direction, which company officials said helps to improve driving through automatic interventions such as de-throttling the engine and selectively applying the brakes — typically reacting faster than human response.

Blue Bird’s electronic stability control option is featured on the Vision and All American lines.

Ad Loading...

Blue Bird will also debut a Propane Vision warranty that provides unlimited-mile propane system coverage for five years. This includes the engine, transmission, fuel tanks and propane system.

The new Propane Vision warranty is available on the 2015 model year and beyond.

“Blue Bird is excited to debut the highly anticipated Micro Bird T-Series bus and forward-thinking technology at the NAPT Summit,” said Phil Horlock, president and CEO of Blue Bird Corp. “These industry-leading debuts are an extension of our commitment to offering state-of-the-art buses and options that our customers value. We encourage the NAPT conference participants to stop by Blue Bird’s trade show booth and learn more about these leading products.”

More Management

Children run toward a stopped yellow school bus on a residential street as a graphic overlay reads “School Bus Fleet Biz Briefs” with the date February 9, 2026, promoting an industry business news roundup.
Managementby Staff and News ReportsFebruary 7, 2026

School Bus Business Briefs: School Grants, New Contracts & Revenue Growth

In school bus tech and vendor updates, check in on news from EverDriven, Gatekeeper, Fleetio, Transfinder, RIDE, and new district partnerships.

Read More →
A red and orange personnel roundup graphic with text reading "Changing Lanes."
Managementby Elora HaynesFebruary 4, 2026

Changing Lanes: EverDriven, ADROIT, DeVivo Companies, School Bus Logistics, Zum, & Dorman

Check out some of the latest personnel moves from across the school bus industry, including new leadership appointments, various promotions, and major restructuring.

Read More →
parked school buses
SponsoredFebruary 3, 2026

From Damage Control to Decision Partner: Transportation's Role in School Closures & Redistricting

School closures are inevitable, but transportation chaos doesn’t have to be. Learn how modern routing technology helps districts model closure scenarios before board votes turn into crises.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Graphic reading “It’s Launch Day! Behind SBF’s New Website” with a desktop and mobile preview of the redesigned School Bus Fleet website on an orange and cream background.
Managementby StaffFebruary 3, 2026

School Bus Fleet, Refreshed: New Website, New Look, Same Commitment

A cleaner layout, improved organization, and a better reading experience are here. Explore what’s new on schoolbusfleet.com!

Read More →
A red and orange graphic with text reading "Representation Matters in School Transportation Leadership."
ManagementFebruary 3, 2026

Why Representation Matters in Transportation Leadership

A firsthand look at how diverse leadership in school transportation builds trust and drives stronger systems.

Read More →
the contractor of the year award logo on an orange background with confetti
Managementby StaffFebruary 2, 2026

Nominations Open for 2026 Contractor of the Year

We're looking for an amazing school bus contractor executive who embodies dedication, excellence, and innovation. Nominate the greats you know for SBF's 2026 award! Nominations close March 31.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
 the driver hero award logo is on a black background with the School Bus Fleet an AngelTrax logos and text that reads "Calling all heroes behind the wheel."
Sponsoredby StaffFebruary 2, 2026

Honoring Heroes Behind the Wheel: Award Nominations Open

Nominations are now open for the second annual 2026 School Bus Driver Hero Award. Help us honor the drivers who selflessly dedicate themselves to ensuring the safety, well-being, and success of the students they transport every day.

Read More →
two men stand in front of a school bus in tennessee
ManagementJanuary 30, 2026

A New Chapter for Tennessee Pupil Transportation: A Vision Grounded in Service, Partnership, and Purpose

Check in with Tennessee’s new state transportation manager, Josh Hinerman, as he reflects on his journey, path to leadership, and priorities for student-centered transportation.

Read More →
A b2x rewards logo and graphic reading "Read. Learn. Earn."
Managementby StaffJanuary 29, 2026

Bobit Business Media Launches B2X Rewards for School Transportation Professionals

The new program rewards B2B audience readers for engaging with trusted content and suppliers, earning them points toward events, travel, and more.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
SponsoredJanuary 29, 2026

8 Ways To Simplify and Streamline School Bus Fleet Operations

What if your fleet technology actually worked together? Learn eight practical strategies to integrate multiple systems into one platform, unlocking clearer insights, stronger safety standards, and smoother daily operations.

Read More →