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Blue Bird Corporation, a leader in eco-friendly school transportation, has delivered 25 electric school buses to the Little Rock School District (LRSD) in Arkansas, marking a significant step toward sustainable student transport. This initiative, supported by a substantial federal grant, positions LRSD as a pioneer in adopting zero-emission vehicles, enhancing environmental and community health.
Key Highlights
- 25 zero-emission buses delivered to LRSD.
- Buses feature a 130-mile range and two-hour recharge.
- LRSD serves 19,000+ students across 40+ schools.
- Funded by a $9.875 million EPA grant.
- Electric buses reduce operating costs significantly.
- Blue Bird is the only U.S.-owned school bus manufacturer.
The Vision electric school buses supplied by Blue Bird offer cutting-edge technology, with a 130-mile range on a single charge and the capacity to carry up to 69 passengers. These buses recharge fully in just two hours, ensuring efficiency for daily operations. With this addition, LRSD’s fleet now totals approximately 70 vehicles, covering 1,400 miles daily to transport 500 students safely.
Dr. Jermall D. Wright, LRSD superintendent, emphasized the broader impact, stating, “This is about doing what’s right for our kids and community.” The shift to electric buses reduces pollution, promoting cleaner air and a healthier environment for students and residents. Blue Bird’s vice president of North America bus sales, Albert Burleigh, highlighted the long-standing partnership with LRSD, spanning over 25 years, and the company’s commitment to safe, reliable, and eco-friendly vehicles.
The purchase was made possible through a $9.875 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program, a bipartisan initiative that has allocated nearly $3 billion to replace diesel buses with 9,000 electric and low-emission vehicles nationwide. By transitioning to electric, LRSD expects to lower operating costs, with energy expenses as low as 19 cents per mile compared to 79 cents per mile for diesel buses, due to reduced fuel and maintenance costs.
Blue Bird, the only U.S.-owned school bus manufacturer, leads the industry with over 2,500 electric buses in operation. The buses were acquired through Central States Bus Sales in North Little Rock, Arkansas, reinforcing Blue Bird’s regional presence. This delivery underscores LRSD’s commitment to sustainability and aligns with Blue Bird’s mission to transform student transportation through innovative, clean energy solutions.
About Blue Bird Corporation
Founded in 1927, Blue Bird Corporation is a trailblazer in school bus manufacturing, prioritizing safety, reliability, and durability. With over 25,000 low- and zero-emission buses sold, Blue Bird continues to lead the industry in sustainable transportation.
Learn more at www.blue-bird.com.
About Little Rock School District
LRSD, Arkansas’s third-largest school district, serves over 19,000 students across more than 40 schools. Renowned for academic excellence, it boasts three national Blue Ribbon Schools and the 2019 Arkansas Teacher of the Year.
Visit www.lrsd.org for more details.
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