Blue Bird Vision CNG - a compressed vision

© Blue Bird CorporationWere it not for the new type of fuel, it would be just another yellow school bus

The new bus is a CNG-powered version of the previously known Vision model, which has been available with optional LPG autogas system (as the Propane Vision) for a while now. Since natural gas as motor fuel is also on the rise stateside, the manufacturer decided to expand the line-up to include a version running on it, too. The Type C bus will enter production in 2016.

As for the technology under the familiar skin, the Vision CNG will make use of components developed and supplied by the same partners whom Blue Bird cooperated with on the Propane Vision – Ford and Roush CleanTech. The former will deliver 6,8-litre V10 engines and 6R140 transmissions, while the latter will bring compressed natural gas fuel systems to the equation.

Interestingly, but also conveniently, the engine and transmission architecture are identical for the petrol-only, LPG and now CNG versions of the Vision bus. And the convenience behind this is obviously in simpler and easier maintenance and service of the vehicles for technicians working on them. The CNG-powered Type C school bus joins the already offered Type D vehicle in Blue Bird's line-up, for an even more comprehensive market offer, tailored to all possible needs and requirements. Deliveries of the new addition are set to start in late 2016.