FORT VALLEY, Ga. — Blue Bird has unveiled the next generation of its propane Type C school bus, which was developed in conjunction with Ford and ROUSH CleanTech.

Company officials said that the Next Generation Propane-Powered Vision provides customers with increased fuel economy, greater horsepower and torque, and a 67-gallon fuel tank — the largest tank available.

The new version of the bus, which was introduced in 2007, also offers enhanced serviceability, broader optional equipment choices and a five-year/100,000-mile warranty.

“We are committed to providing state-of-the-art, reliable and efficient green solutions that our customers want and value,” said Phil Horlock, president and CEO of Blue Bird Corp. “In partnership with established industry leaders Ford and ROUSH CleanTech, the introduction of Blue Bird’s Next Generation Propane-Powered Vision will reinforce our leadership position by providing increased benefits and value to our customers.”

George Weber, president and CEO of Ford Component Sales, said that the company is providing the school bus industry “with a world-class propane-powered Ford engine that meets the performance requirements of Blue Bird Corporation.”

Joe Thompson, president of ROUSH CleanTech, called propane “the right choice for school districts, offering the safest and most economical transportation choice for schools across America."

For more information, contact a Blue Bird dealer or go to www.blue-bird.com.