washer fluid, power steering fluid and the surge tank. Te engine cover was redesigned last year, but that feature will also be new for many in the industry. “It’s got access to the CDL check that
we’ve always had, but there’s also a second door where they can do inspection of the belts. So you really can do your entire CDL check without lifting the engine cover,” said Jed Routh, product manager for Tomas. “One thing that’s come out of customer groups in the past was that our cover was hard to remove, and we’ve changed that as well.” Tomas has also consolidated hundreds
❝
of part numbers between the new EFX and the company’s Saf-T-Liner HDX rear- engine offering. Routh said fewer parts will ease the manufacturing process while also improving overall quality and cost efficiency for customers. “I think simplicity is something we’re after here, and this project is a good step
forward,” he said, adding that there were no plans to offer alternative-fuel options because of limited engine space available in the forward-control bus. Except for the engine locations,
durability track for additional testing. Platt said pre-series runs with the company’s manufacturing team will “shake out” any tweaks that need to be made ahead of production, which is scheduled for the
I think simplicity is something we’re after here,
and this project is a good step forward. ❞ — Jed Routh, Thomas Built Buses
explained Platt, the EFX and HDX are essentially the same vehicle from the base of the windshield up. Below that line, she said the EFX takes some design elements from the existing HDX. Tomas dealers were to get up close
and personal with the new EFX at a national meeting this month before the bus heads to the NAPT Summit, after which orders will be taken. Meanwhile, another prototype was heading to the
first quarter of 2012. Routh also said that Tomas paid
particular attention to what customers said not to change — namely, the visibility of the windshield, the solid body, the driver switches and the overall reliability of the bus. “Te EF was already a rugged, reliable
product,” Platt added. “By making it more aesthetically pleasing with a host of new added features, it now appeals to both drivers and buyers.” ■
Welcome on board.
Carrier North American Bus Air
Conditioning Division joins MCC! Whatever you’re looking for in customized HVAC systems you can find it in our extensive range. We now supply an unrivalled choice for transit, intercity, school and shuttle buses in North America. And with our wide reaching network you are always close to an MCC dealer and service provider.
Step on board for a better climate!
Visit us at
www.mcc-hvac.com See Us At Booth #1101
www.stnonline.com 35
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