- First electric Type D bus from Thomas Built Buses, based on the proven HDX2 platform
- Powered by Accelera’s 14Xe electric axle for enhanced efficiency and reduced maintenance
- Up to 150-mile range and DC fast charging in 2–3 hours
- Designed to ease the transition for districts adopting large, transit-style electric fleets
Thomas Built Buses (TBB), a division of Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles, has unveiled the Saf-T-Liner eHDX2 Wattson, its first electric Type D school bus, marking a major step in the company’s electrification strategy.
Built on the HDX2 platform, Wattson represents the evolution of the company’s electrified product line, offering the size, visibility, and capacity of a traditional Type D bus—now with zero-emission power. It’s designed for districts and operators planning long-term fleet electrification while minimizing operational disruption.
Engineering and Powertrain Highlights
The bus is powered by Accelera’s 14Xe integrated electric axle, which consolidates the motor, gearbox, and power electronics into a single, compact unit. This reduces mechanical complexity, resulting in smoother operation and lower maintenance costs.
Performance and specifications include:
- Battery capacity: 246 kWh
- Range: Up to 150 miles per charge
- Charging:
- Standard SAE CCS1
- DC fast charging: 2–3 hours (60 kW minimum)
- Onboard AC/DC charging: 20 kW option
- Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capable
- Power & torque: 295 hp and 750 lb-ft
- Transmission: Two-speed
- Battery cooling: Liquid-cooled system
Operational Design for Real-World Needs
The Wattson’s design emphasizes flexibility and familiar operation for fleet managers and drivers:
- 277-inch wheelbase
- LCD instrument cluster for live diagnostics
- Optional 69-inch pass-through luggage compartments
- Rear charging port standard, with optional front port
Leadership Perspective
“Wattson represents our next step in electrification,” said T.J. Reed, President and CEO of Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles. “It reflects our belief that the best electric solutions are those that feel familiar, fit within your fleet, and are built to last.”
“Wattson showcases the strength of Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles—combining proven manufacturing and deep customer insight,” added Jeff Allen, Senior Vice President of Operations and Specialty Vehicles at DTNA.
Availability
Orders for the Saf-T-Liner eHDX2 Wattson open by the end of 2025, with initial deliveries expected in late 2026.
For more information, visit thomasbuiltbuses.com/school-buses/saf-t-liner-hdx-2-wattson.
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