Blue Bird recently launched the Propane-Powered Vision Bus, which is a fully integrated and purpose-built Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) bus, engineered to the same exacting standards as other Blue Bird products. This product is the first dedicated propane-powered school bus offered by a major manufacturer in the United States since 2002 and is also available for activity/MFSAB applications. The bus is powered by the GM 8.1L engine, which is designed and engineered to operate on propane by Powertrain Integration using CleanFUEL USA’s Liquid Propane Injection System™. Propane itself is a safe, clean, and reliable alternative fuel with an established infrastructure system throughout North America..
Technology Advancements with Blue Bird’s Propane-Powered Vision
The Propane-Powered Vision School Bus utilizes the latest advancements in propane technology, including the Liquid Propane Injection System (LPI™), developed by CleanFUEL USA and the GM Vortec 8.1 liter engine.
CleanFUEL USA’s Liquid Propane Injection System™
The Liquid Propane Injection System (LPI™) used to power the bus differentiates the Propane-Powered Vision® from diesel-powered school buses. Not just another LPG conversion or retrofit system, CleanFUEL USA’s technology is a fully integrated system, designed in complete harmony with the OEM engine.
Utilizing the original GM engine Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with a dedicated calibration specifically for propane, the LPI™ system replaces the diesel fuel tank, fuel pump and injector rails with a propane fuel tank, fuel pump and injector rails. LPI™ is a direct replacement for the OEM gasoline injection system. Providing the best balance of fuel economy, performance and emissions, LPI™ meets EPA requirements through the 2010 production year for both 49-state and CARB certification while offering unsurpassed economics of ownership and operation, including:
- More complete combustion
- Lower emissions
- Improved fuel economy and performance
Most drivers report improved acceleration, smoother shifts and better overall drivability compared to other propane-powered buses.
LPI™ is engineered to maximize the inherent design benefits of today’s engines. Because the system delivers fuel to the engine in a liquid form, there are no additional components traditionally found on U.S. propane engine fuel tanks. The tanks are built to meet and exceed the highest quality standards with additional corrosion, structural and functional elements, bringing a new level of safety and durability to the North American market. All LPI™ fuel tanks are ASME1 certified and compliant with NFPA2 58.
GM Vortec 8.1 Liter Engine
The GM Vortec 8.1 liter engine platform received U.S. Environmental Protection Agency certification, with a rating of 0.5 grams of non-methane hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides (NMHC+NOx) per brake-horsepower-hour.
Refueling Plan
Blue Bird’s Propane-Powered Vision® can help school districts and other customers dramatically reduce fuel expenses while simultaneously reducing toxic idling emissions. However, many customers are unfamiliar with propane fuel and infrastructure. To facilitate an effortless purchasing experience, Blue Bird Corporation and its Dealer Network will team with propane marketers throughout North America to offer customers a plan for purchasing fuel and refueling equipment that is:
- Safe:
Recognizing that safety is first, the propane fuel marketer will be responsible for training and certifying the proper dispensing of propane motor fuel.
- Seamless:
The propane marketer will assist customers with providing a seamless set-up experience by not only providing the initial equipment and fuel but also by providing service and maintenance on the equipment as well as any needed training. These combined efforts ensure that fleets maximize on-route time.
- Cost Effective:
The propane marketers can provide a cost effective infrastructure solution by building the cost of the fuel dispensing equipment and storage tanks (skid system) into a fuel contract. This may eliminate a major capital expense for school districts and other customers.
- Scalable:
The scalable infrastructure program can allow organizations to trade-up equipment as their propane fleets grow. As more dispensers and larger storage tanks are needed, adjustments can be made to accommodate the customer.
Infrastructure Resources:
One specific infrastructure solution is for Blue Bird dealers and customers to work with CleanFUEL USA (www.cleanfuelusa.com) and its established relationships with propane fuel providers across the United States such as Ferrellgas (http://www.ferrellgas.com/motorfuel) who serves approximately 1 million customers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. To take advantage of these relationships for your organization, contact your local authorized Blue Bird dealer.
Additional propane retailers may be found by visiting www.usepropane.com and clicking on the link “Find A Propane Retailer.”
