Emission-control technology offers low-maintenance solutions

Diesel particulate filters, mufflers and engine pre-heaters help school bus operators keep the air in and around their vehicles clean with minimal maintenance required. Technology upgrades now allow for optimal operation and pre-programmable engine pre-heating in even lower temperatures.

The trouble with cutting bus service

Increased traffic around schools is one of the key problems. In situations like this, long lines of vehicles often build up in the morning and afternoon.

John Clements to serve as advisor for Motiv Power Systems

In the part-time role, Clements, who retired last year as director of transportation for California’s Kings Canyon Unified School District, will offer school bus industry advice and general operations knowledge to the company, among other duties. Last year, Motiv partnered with Trans Tech Bus to develop the SSTe all-electric school bus.

Alt-fuel school bus options are growing

Manufacturers are meeting the demand for clean-burning, money-saving yellow buses by offering more powered by propane autogas and compressed natural gas, as well as all-electric units. Here’s a look at some of the school buses in development, on the market and in service at operations.

PHOTOS: Animals and Insects Go Yellow

Driver hailed for response to school bus fire

Fire officials in Mesa, Ariz., praise a school bus driver for her decisive actions to keep her special-education passengers safe when her bus caught on fire. The driver had reportedly noticed a small amount of smoke while she was driving, and she quickly pulled over and helped her passengers evacuate.

REMINDER: Enter <I>SBF</i>’s Photo Contest

SCHOOL BUS FLEET’s annual competition is open to any kind of shot related to school transportation. Three winners will receive a $100 cash prize. The deadline is Friday, May 23.

Collins Bus Corp. launches new CNG Type A school bus

The school bus manufacturer has partnered with Westport on the bus, which features the Westport WiNG Power System, a dedicated natural gas fuel system. The bus also features a large passenger-side cab view window, an exterior storage compartment, and it provides an estimated 250- to 300-mile range. Collins Bus is accepting orders for the bus, and delivery to customers will begin in the fall, according to the company.

Espar engine pre-heater available in Trans Tech buses

The company’s E-Guardian 5 engine pre-heater is available on the Type A school bus manufacturer’s buses immediately. The E-Guardian 5 is EPA verified and California Air Resources Board approved, and officials say some of the benefits of the system include a warm engine start without plug-ins, reduced engine idling for fuel savings, less engine maintenance and use of the Multi-Max Digital Controller for ease of use.