HIGH POINT, N.C. — Thomas Built Buses has received an order from Durham School Services for 288 Saf-T-Liner EF units.

The Type D buses are scheduled to start being delivered to Durham in late May and will be used to serve Indianapolis Public Schools.

Thomas’ 2010 Saf-T-Liner EF includes an array of updates. It is equipped with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology to meet EPA emissions requirements and maximize fuel efficiency and engine performance.

“In 2004, Thomas delivered the first Saf-T-Liner C2 off the production line from our new manufacturing plant to Durham,” said Ken Hedgecock, vice president of sales, marketing and service. “With a long history of working together, we are pleased that Durham School Services also will receive the first Saf-T-Liner EF model buses equipped with selective catalytic reduction.”

Along with a Cummins engine, the 2010 Saf-T-Liner EF features a redesigned cockpit. The cockpit was built with a focus on driver comfort. It boasts an updated engine cover to allow belts and fluid levels to be checked without removing the cover. The redesigned engine cover also creates more room for passenger entry, while the optimized driver’s seat placement and dash redesign allow more knee room. Switches are grouped by function to be more intuitive for drivers. 

Thomas Built Buses has been the primary supplier of Type C and D buses for Durham School Services for more than 20 years. Durham School Services, which contracts with school districts in 29 states, operates a fleet of more than 13,500 buses.