HIGH POINT, N.C. — Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has purchased 130 Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner HDX compressed natural gas (CNG) school buses.

The buses were purchased through Carson, Calif.-based BusWest, a Thomas dealer. “Helping LAUSD replace their older school buses with clean-burning CNG-powered school buses is good for the students, the environment and the economy. BusWest is honored to have the opportunity to supply Thomas Built CNG buses to support LAUSD’s ongoing fleet replacement program,” President Jim Bernacchi said.

LAUSD’s transportation department only accepts bids for buses that operate on alternative fuels. The district currently operates the largest CNG school bus fleet in the state, with more than 300 alternative-fueled school buses.

“We applaud the LAUSD’s commitment to sound environmental strategies with its selection of school buses that incorporate clean-fuel technology,” said Ken Hedgecock, vice president of sales, marketing and service for Thomas Built Buses, “and we welcome this opportunity to demonstrate our shared commitment to environmental stewardship and enhanced passenger safety.”

Introduced more than 10 years ago, Thomas Built CNG-powered buses exceed California emission standards, according to the company. Emissions are near zero and the buses have been 2010-compliant since 2007.

Moreover, to meet California’s lap-shoulder belt requirement, all of the 130 buses will be equipped with SafeGuard seats manufactured by IMMI.