Q&A
“We certainly faced significant
challenges through the pandemic,
including supply chain issues that
have impacted bus deliveries to our customers. The one benefit of having worked through these difficult times, is we are learning how to better manage our business should we ever face similar challenges in the future.” - Britton Smith
this vital part of our business and to continue to be the leaders in the electric school bus industry. That is why we continue to build on our long-term partnerships with companies such as Accelera by Cummins, which fully share our vision to provide industry-leading, zero-emis- sion school buses.
STN: What about the future of internal combustion engines? Regulations aside, the industry will need diesel school buses for years to come. In public filings, Blue Bird has alluded to diesel’s end days. Can you comment
26 School Transportation News • OCTOBER 2023
on how much longer customers can expect to be able to buy a Vision or All American diesel? Smith: We are committed to providing our cus-
tomers with safe and reliable school buses, which have superior performance and meet their student transportation needs. As the leaders in zero- and low-emission vehicles, we’ve proven that our elec- tric and propane-powered buses can provide exactly that without compromise. I think the exact future of a diesel powertrain in the school bus industry remains somewhat uncertain. The future hinges on the ability
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