DeKalb County Central United School District (Indiana) is adding three new school buses powered by propane autogas for the upcoming school year. The largest school district in the state, the Blue Bird Propane Vision buses are equipped with a ROUSH CleanTech propane autogas fuel system and were purchased from MacAllister Bus Sales.

DeKalb Central United Schools, DeKalb County’s largest school district, will replace 12-year-old diesel buses with new Blue Bird Propane Vision buses

“Encouraging intentional innovation is one of our key priority areas of our district’s strategic plan. In a time of diminishing resources, we strive to be as innovative and energy efficient as possible,” shared DeKalb Central Superintendent Dr. Sherry Grate. “After researching the data regarding the incorporation of propane autogas fueled school buses in to our fleet, a very deliberate decision was made to pursue this opportunity.”

Grate said cutting greenhouse gas emissions, a cleaner riding environment for students, and reduced maintenance costs for each unit, were reasons cited for the purchase of the propane autogas buses. Also a factor was that on average, autogas costs up to 50 percent less than diesel fuel and the buses will start up in temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees. Keeping children’s safety in mind, Grate noted the buses are quieter and have less of an impact on neighborhoods.

Trey Jenkins, vice president of alternative fuels for Blue Bird Corporation, added, “As the leader in propane, Blue Bird is committed to providing school districts with a reliable, innovative and proven technology that is favorable to a district’s bottom line. Like many districts, DeKalb Central United Schools did the research and realized that propane autogas is the best choice for reducing fuel and maintenance costs while providing cleaner air for the community. This is a great decision by DeKalb Central United Schools.”