Safety is paramount in pupil transportation. IC Bus has been at the forefront of integrating advanced safety features into their fleet offerings, aiming to transform the traditional school bus experience for drivers.
Katie Stok, segment marketing director at IC Bus, discussed the strides the company has made in enhancing both safety and driver comfort through their latest technologies.
Modernizing the School Bus Experience
Traditionally, Stok said, school buses have been synonymous with reliability but have lagged behind automotive advancements in terms of technological integration. However, IC Bus is changing this narrative with their next generation of buses. Stok said these buses feature a sleek design and modern amenities that immediately captivate both drivers and passengers alike.
“Every person that steps onto the bus notices how different it feels,” Stok said. “The integration of contemporary technologies really elevates the overall experience.”
Addressing Driver Needs
One of the key features in IC Bus’s latest model in the CE Series is the introduction of dual-height handrails, a first in the industry. Their development stemmed from extensive customer feedback and driver clinic insights, addressing ergonomic concerns during ingress and egress.
“Accessibility is key for drivers of all shapes and sizes,” Stok said. “The dual-height handrails ensure that every driver can comfortably and safely enter and exit the bus, minimizing the risk of accidents and promoting overall driver satisfaction.”
Visibility enhancements have been central to IC Bus’s design philosophy. The new buses feature improved sightlines from a sloped hood, allowing drivers to see 11 inches closer to the front of the bus. Additionally, with our new entrance door design, there is no longer a separator dividing the glass panels – providing an unobstructed view out the entrance door. This increased visibility not only enhances safety by reducing blind spots, but also instills greater confidence in drivers as they navigate crowded streets and busy school zones.
Integrated Safety Technologies
Beyond physical enhancements, IC Bus has integrated cutting-edge safety technologies directly into the driver’s interface. Stok spoke about the significance of consolidating safety alerts and notifications into the dash cluster.
“Previously, drivers had to contend with aftermarket installations scattered across the dashboard,” she said. “Now, critical alerts from systems like Bendix® Wingman® Fusion and the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) are seamlessly integrated, keeping drivers focused on the road ahead.”
Stok said this integration minimizes distractions, ensuring that drivers can promptly respond to any potential hazards without diverting their attention from driving.
Meeting the Industry’s Challenges
The school transportation sector faces ongoing challenges, particularly with the national driver shortage and the need for enhanced safety. Stok said IC Bus acknowledges these issues and aims to support customers with its solutions.