Thomas Built Buses is now offering the Bendix^® Intellipark electronic parking brake in our Saf-T-Liner^® C2 school buses equipped with a Cummins diesel or Detroit Diesel powertrain and an air brake package. In addition, Intellipark parking brake technology will now come standard in each Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley^® electric bus. As the first school bus manufacturer to offer customers this technology, we are excited about the additional safety advancements this system will provide.

Designed and manufactured by Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, Intellipark’s auto-park technology helps prevent rollaway and runaway crashes due to drivers exiting their vehicles without remembering to set the brake. After the brake has been auto-set, the driver must then take intentional actions to release it.

“Drivers have a lot on their plates, and unfortunately when it comes to operating a vehicle, overlooking one small step can have significant implications,” says Caley Edgerly, president and CEO of Thomas Built Buses. “Our hope is that this system can provide an extra safeguard and give drivers, fleet managers and parents additional peace of mind.”

Beyond Safety

In addition to next-level parking technology, Intellipark offers a significant ergonomic advantage over the current pneumatic brake valve. This new dash-mounted switch still maintains the familiar yellow symbols and text, plus integrated LEDs that clearly indicate the status of the parking brake. The switch is also more comfortable to operate compared to existing park valves.

While Intellipark is designed to help drivers mitigate a variety of unsafe events, no technology can replace a driver’s need to practice safe driving habits or engage in ongoing driver training. For more information on the Intellipark electronic parking brake, please contact your local Thomas Built Buses dealer.