Top 4 most-viewed feature articles of 2013

This year’s features that captured the most readers’ attention cover Dubai’s first school transportation conference, outstanding women in the industry, child-check devices and a Q&A with Blue Bird’s president and CEO.

Push for electric school buses in Massachusetts

Gov. Deval Patrick and his administration are investing in three programs to support alternative fuel vehicles and related infrastructure across Massachusetts, including the launch of an electric school bus pilot program. The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources will provide $1.8 million in grants for eight electric school buses with vehicle-to-grid capability.

Thinking outside the bus

In the school bus industry, which has built an unparalleled safety record with its thorough driver requirements and strict vehicle construction standards, the thought of stepping outside of the school bus is disconcerting for many.

EPA alleges excessive idling, fines bus company $33K

School bus operator North Reading Transportation will pay the penalty to settle EPA allegations that it violated federally enforceable motor vehicle idling limits in Massachusetts. EPA officials say that the company has responded quickly and has already implemented a number of idle-reduction measures.

2013 NASDPTS and NAPT Conferences

Webasto unveils new timer for engine pre-heaters

Company officials say that the SmarTemp Control fx Timer, which was on display at the National Association for Pupil Transportation trade show, is easy to program for repeat heating duration times. It allows up to four different timer settings per day.

Trans Tech, Motiv partner for new all-electric school bus

Trans Tech Bus and Motiv Power Systems unveil the SST-e, an all-electric Type A school bus offering up to 100 miles of range.

Thinking outside the bus

Many districts have turned to alternative transportation — vans, taxis and other vehicles — to supplement traditional school bus service in certain situations. But in the school bus industry, which has built an unparalleled safety record with its thorough driver requirements and strict vehicle construction standards, the thought of stepping outside of the school bus is disconcerting for many. ...

Are Vans and Cars Safe for Student Transportation?

As alternative student transportation grows, a look back at the longstanding debate around safety and driver standards when using vans, cars, and other small vehicles to transport students.