Designer and manufacturer of school buses Blue Bird has launched gasoline-powered Type C Vision school bus, powered by Ford 6.8L V10 engine, at School Transportation News (STN) Expo Conference and Trade Show in Reno, in the US.
Claiming to make ownership affordable and allowing easier maintenance, the propane-autogas powered bus will be available in the market next year.
Blue Bird president and CEO Phil Horlock said: "With an attractive upfront price, Blue Bird's new gasoline-powered Vision bus will provide a very affordable option to customers and keep the total cost of ownership as low as possible.
"Maintenance and service of this proven and modern gasoline engine is simpler for technicians, while the bus is powerful and quiet to drive. This product is another example of our commitment to bringing innovative and affordable class-leading products to the school bus market that customers want and value."
Blue Bird has teamed up with Ford and ROUSH CleanTech, an initiative empowering the company to arm its buses with 6.8L V10 engine and 6R-140 transmission in over 5,500 Blue Bird Propane Vision buses.
Ford executive Jamy Rankin said: "Ford Component Sales is excited to continue to partner with Blue Bird and ROUSH CleanTech in creating innovative products. We started with our class-leading propane engine and now our gasoline engine will also be powering Blue Bird's Vision bus.
"The gasoline-powered bus will utilize the same powertrain as Ford's medium-duty commercial F-650 / F-750, tailored for school bus applications, providing industry-leading engine performance and durability to Blue Bird's customers."
