Indiana’s Largest Propane Bus Fleet Deploys in Warren Township

“Better cold-weather starts, lower maintenance and fuel cost, quieter buses, as well as better air quality for students, the bus driver, and our community were the reasons we chose propane autogas,” said Steve Smith, director
of transportation for the Metropolitan School District of Warren Township. “With the fuel’s clean operation, we anticipate longer maintenance intervals and lower periodic maintenance cost.”

The new Blue Bird buses replace older diesel models. An autogas fuel system manufactured by Roush CleanTech powers each vehicle. To fuel the buses, the school district installed two autogas stations with 1000 gallon capacity each. “Our drivers will feel more confident taking the long routes and field trips by having fuel conveniently located and available around the clock,” Smith said.

“M.S.D. Warren Township joins over 500 other districts nationwide experiencing the benefits of propane autogas technology—lowering operating costs, maintenance costs, and emissions,” said Brian Carney, group account director for Roush CleanTech. The propane bus fleet will reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by more than 13,600 pounds and particulate matter by about 350 pounds each year compared with the diesel buses they replaced. “Blue Bird provides innovative and cost-effective green transportation solutions for its school district customers,” added Phil Horlock, president and CEO of Blue Bird Corp. “Through its research, M.S.D. Warren Township determined that propane autogas was the best choice for reducing fuel and maintenance costs while providing cleaner air for the community.”