This Type of Hybrid-Electric Bus is only one of three currently in Use across the Nation
WARRENVILLE, Ill.—Durham School Services, a leading provider of student transportation in North America for nearly 100 years, has launched a pilot program at its Wichita location to test its new hybrid-electric school bus under real world conditions. The bus utilizes a state-of-the art hybrid-electric drive system and represents the latest in green school bus technology.
The bus is a NEXBUS™ Hybrid-Electric school bus from the Collins Bus Corporation, featuring the Balance™ Hybrid Electric technology from Azure Dynamics. There are only three of these buses currently in use across the nation. Two of them belong to Durham School Services; one is in use at their Wichita location and one at their Rosemead, Calif. location. From this trial, Durham is looking to gather operational, environmental and economic statistics for the vehicle, which is expected to cut emissions, fuel usage and maintenance costs by one-third.
“Our goal is to lead the advancement of sustainable alternative fueled technology through the assessment of real world school bus specific applications. Through our industry cooperation we can provide our school district customers the opportunity to confidently apply for available transportation funding and participate in shaping the future”, said Greg Miller, Senior Vice President of Fleet Operations for National Express Corporation.
“We want to work together with school districts and provide as much support as we can to promote responsible environmental practices for student transportation,” added Miller.
This hybrid bus trial program is just one component of Durham School Services’ overall environmental initiative. Durham is committed to exploring sustainable, economical and reliable transportation options for more than 300 school districts they serve throughout the United States and Canada. Durham proactively promotes environmentally responsible operational practices for its school buses, including fitting exhaust systems with special filters, upholding a strict anti-idling policy, using alternative fuels, and maintaining an aggressive waste oil recycling program.
About Durham School Services
Durham School Services is a leading provider of student transportation consistently recognized for its outstanding safety record. Durham partners with school districts in 29 states and operates a fleet of more than 13,500 buses. Our success rests with our dedicated employees who live our mission: “Getting kids to school safe, on time and ready to learn...every day.” For more information, visit www.durhamschoolservices.com.
National Express Corporation (NEC) is the North American subsidiary of National Express Group, PLC, one of the premier transportation firms in the United Kingdom. NEC is made up of Durham School Services in the United States and Stock Transportation in Canada. Both Durham and Stock share a strong commitment to provide quality transportation, outstanding customer service, positive employee relations and the highest level of safety. For more information, visit www.nationalexpresscorp.com.
About Collins Bus Corporation
Collins Bus Corporation, a subsidiary of Collins Industries, Inc., is the largest producer of Type-A buses in North America and markets under three brands: Collins, Mid Bus, and Corbeil. They have a distribution network of over 70 dealers in the United States and Canada. For more information please visit www.collinsbuscorp.com.
About Azure Dynamics
Azure Dynamics Corporation (TSX: AZD) is a world leader in the development and production of hybrid electric and electric components and powertrain systems for commercial vehicles. Azure is strategically targeting the commercial delivery vehicle and shuttle bus markets and is currently working internationally with various partners and customers. The Company is committed to providing customers and partners with innovative, cost-efficient, and environmentally-friendly energy management solutions. For more information please visit www.azuredynamics.com.
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