RICHMOND, Va. — Type A school bus manufacturer Collins unveiled its new bus on a Ford Transit chassis here on Monday night.

The new bus is available in single rear wheel (SRW) and dual rear wheel (DRW) models. The SRW transports up to 20 passengers, while the DRW can carry up to 25.

Company officials pointed to the vehicle’s large view-out window on the passenger entry side, which they said reduces blind spots and enhances visibility when loading and unloading students.

Matt Scheuler, president and general manager of Collins Bus Corp., said that the new bus is now in production, and the company has already started taking orders for it.

Scheuler said that some of the key features are the enhanced driver visibility, improved fuel economy and a narrow body with easier maneuverability. He also noted that the air-conditioning system is flush against the rear wall.

The bus is Altoona tested, simulating seven years and 200,000 miles of wear. Collins offers a five-year body warranty and a limited lifetime paint warranty.