agency choose what’s best for the operation. Scott Meyer, Schetky’s school bus sales manager, add-
ed, “We must remember EV buses are the most dramatic technological change in the careers of most mechanics and directors. Having the ability to demonstrate the product and answer questions can significantly reduce the anxiety of a new product. Getting hands on a new product is the best way to build confidence and accep- tance of new technologies.” Schetky has held several ride and drive events for cus-
tomers so staff could get behind the wheel of EV buses, see new options, and ask questions. It also brings demo units loaded with newly available or unique options to local trade shows, where school transportation workers can engage with each new technology before making purchase decisions. Heider said a Longhorn salesperson drives a demo unit
loaded with camera, GPS, and fire suppression systems throughout Texas to showcase various options. The dealer also brings trainers to school districts to conduct a four-hour EV technician and driver training. Reichenbach said Bird Bus provides customers with tools via a series of online and in-person modules that they need to comfortably operate electric school buses.
Meyer added that Schetky provides free training be-
fore a new Thomas Jouley is delivered: EV-1 is for any operator of the bus, EV-2 is baseline mechanical orienta- tion, and EV-3 is the highest level of electric mechanical certification. A salesperson conducts a thorough walk- through of the EV product to ensure operators are comfortable with the new technology. Schetky’s customer service manager coaches a district
through growing pains associated with the adoption of EV buses. The company also offers its customers location-based, full-day training seminars covering everything from basic electrical theory to multiplex troubleshooting. Thomas Built Bus also has a full-time EV team supporting Schetky for everything from infra- structure development to after-sale technical support, including helping school districts identify the correct path to electrification, identify the local utility provider, bus route analysis, choosing the correct chargers, and site evaluation/layout. Although Suffolk Transportation Service is running the most electric buses in New York so far, “this is new, so we’re really looking for much more advanced training for our team so we’re able to troubleshoot small prob- lems within our own maintenance facilities,” Smith said.
32 School Transportation News • OCTOBER 2023
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