Build Your Dreams (BYD), who are one of the world leaders in electric vehicles and electric buses, have introduced its Type A zero-emissions school bus in the US. This new battery electric vehicle combines design, performance and safety in a package built to meet the needs of students and school administrators.
The new bus, which follows the launch of the brand’s Type D bus last year, has a range of up to 140 miles (225km) from a single charge making it ideal for the daily school run.
What’s particularly smart here is that the BYD Type A offers innovative vehicle-to-grid technology, allowing the vehicle to serve as a power storage resource when it’s not transporting students.
Stella Li, BYD president of BYD North America, said: “BYD’s Type A battery electric school bus is designed to be there for school districts 24 hours a day, both as a vehicle and power storage resource.
“The BYD combination of top-notch safety features, innovative design and reliable performance makes this a practical and highly affordable zero-emission solution.”
The Type A can seat up to 30, and can also be equipped with an ADA liftgate capable of lifting 363kg (800lbs). It will be available in 8.1-metre (26.7ft) 7.5metre (24.5ft) and 6.9-metre (22.9ft) length options and designed for routes with fewer students and for transporting those with disabilities.
At the heart of the BYD Type A is its lithium iron phosphate battery, the safest and most reliable in the electric vehicle industry. In addition, BYD adds an additional layer of protection with its Predictive Stop Arm, which monitors approaching traffic and notifies students as they exit the bus when it is safe to cross.
Samuel Kang, BYD head of Total Technology Solutions, said: “Just like our Type D bus introduced last year, our Type A bus bi-directional charging capability is a game changer.
“School buses can be charged overnight when energy demand is low, and clean emission-free energy can be fed back into the classroom during school hours when the bus is parked keeping classrooms well-lit and students and teachers plugged-in.”
BYD’s innovative battery-electric technology can cut fuel costs by as much as 60 percent compared to diesel vehicles. With fewer moving parts and less vibration, maintenance costs can be cut by as much as 60 percent too.
