Why You Should Consider The Type D Bus

Over the past year, many school districts have been affected by the shortage of school bus production and driver shortages. As the future points towards a new era of electric school buses, there continues to be uncertainty about when this idea will become a reality. In the meantime, education boards should consider alternative bus types, including the Type D school bus due to its maneuverability and driver availability. 

What is The Type D Bus?

The Type D bus, commonly referred to as a “transit-style” or “flat nose” bus is easily distinguished by its size and body shape. With its body built upon a chassis, this vehicle’s engine is mounted in the front or rear of the vehicle and carries a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10K lbs. These vehicles are designed to carry 10+ passengers with up to 90 passengers total. This vehicle type is often distinguished by its flat front design and opening door ahead of the front wheelbase. 

Why The Transit Bus Is A Great Alternative to School Buses

• Improved Visibility: Due to the engine not being located in the front hood, drivers are met with a flat and transparent viewing experience. This flat front design allows for greater driver visibility, providing better awareness of their surroundings and enhanced safety on the roads.
• Passenger Capacity: Type D buses are typically larger and longer than their conventional Type C counterparts. With this increased size, this style of bus can accommodate up to 90 passengers, typically 10-15 more than Type C. In addition, this size allows for increased storage capacities as well.
• Passenger Experience: With rear-engine vehicles, common noise and disturbance that come from front engines are now eliminated. This allows for a quieter and overall more comfortable driving experience for both passengers and drivers. Furthermore, its increased size allows for customizable seating arrangements and overall increased space and room.
• Versatility: Due to their increased size, these vehicles go beyond student transportation with possible charter operation, shuttle services, and equipment transportation capabilities. In addition, with its engine placement and axle design, these vehicles are more versatile over varying and dangerous road conditions as compared to their Type C counterpart. 

What is the difference between a Type C and Type D school bus?

When considering school buses, it is crucial to understand the differences among bus types and how they fit your criteria. Type C school buses are categorized by their front-engine build, designed with a more compact build style. Type D buses are distinguished by their long chassis and build, prioritizing passenger safety and comfort. Each bus has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages, some notable differences include: 

Size & Capacity

One district difference between these vehicles is the size and capacity. Type D buses have an overall larger capacity of up to 90 passengers while Type C buses have a maximum capacity of around 78 passengers. With this increased size, Type D buses have increased storage capacity as well. 

Engine Placement

When it comes to engine placement, Type D buses can be configured with two differing engine locations in the front or rear of the vehicle. Type C buses are restricted to their front-mounted engine. These differing placements can impact factors including visibility, noise levels, and weight distribution. 

Appearance

Type D buses have a distinct “flat nose” look, due to the placement of their engines, allowing for increased driver visibility. Type C buses have the conventional “school bus” appearance with its distinct front-engine design, which can impair driver visibility. 

Maneuverability

Even with its larger size and length, Type D buses have increased maneuverability and turn radius in tighter spaces and roads, compared to the maneuverability and compact body style of the Type C bus. 

In the end, the choice between a Type D or Type C school bus comes down to your specific situation and which bus better suits your needs. Factors influencing this include student population, budgetary confinements, and route characteristics.  When it comes to overall value and opportunities, the Type D school bus is a great addition to your fleet. With its size, safety, and overall user experience, the transit school bus is an ideal choice for any situation. Learn more about our comprehensive selection of school and activity buses here at Peach State Truck Centers.