From Kendra Eads, VP of Engineering and Technology at Thomas Built Buses 

As we gear up for the back-to-school season, it’s important to recognize the significant advancements in school bus technology that enhance the safety and well-being of our students during their daily journeys. 

At Thomas Built Buses, our commitment to safety is evident in our mission and our constant pursuit of innovative solutions. We’re not just shaping the future of school transportation; we are powering a brighter, safer world for our children and yours. 

It’s in Our D(T)NA 

With the full support and resources of our parent company, Daimler Truck North America, we are constantly innovating at the speed of right. 

Our journey begins with a steadfast dedication to mastering the fundamentals. Every Thomas Built school bus is thoughtfully designed and crafted to meet rigorous safety standards set by regulatory bodies, ensuring that students are protected in any number of driving conditions, including inclement weather and varying terrains.  

We are not just building buses; we are engineering safety into every detail. Our bus structure is the backbone of the vehicle’s safety, with industry leading body and chassis integration. We use advanced structural adhesives that secure components with unmatched strength – applied precisely using robotic technology. We also employ cutting edge structural and dynamic analysis to virtually test our vehicles – allowing us to understand every detail of the design and how it will perform. 

As an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), we are constantly working to enhance our products and further invest in safety systems. In today’s ever-evolving landscape, we see technology as a powerful ally in improving the safety of children on and off the bus. Our advancements in pedestrian detection technology and automated braking are two examples of our continued commitment in this space.  

Our ongoing innovation has reached a significant milestone – the development of an advanced proprietary electrical architecture, which is poised to shape the future of school bus safety. This electrical architecture will allow us to seamlessly and efficiently integrate new safety features as they are developed, setting the stage for future advancements that will safeguard our students like never before.  

As advocates for student safety, we have embarked on a mission to educate dealers, school districts and parents about the advanced safety features that are available. Collaborating closely, we aim to create a collective push for even safer buses as new technologies emerge. Our focus is not only on integrating safety features, but also on raising awareness about their availability and benefits.  

Empowering the Driver 

A pivotal aspect of our safety philosophy revolves around empowering our bus drivers – the true guardians of our students’ well-being. We understand that a safe journey extends beyond the bus itself.  

Our focus is not only on equipping buses with advanced safety systems but providing drivers with tools that enhance their ability to make real-time, critical decisions. The integration of smart sensors, intelligent lighting and intuitive warning systems ensures that our drivers are in control, minimizing distractions and enhancing their situational awareness. 

We also offer an array of options to optimize driver comfort and ensure they can navigate their routes with ease. From adjustable seats to climate control, we prioritize their well-being so they can prioritize the well-being of students. 

When it comes to driver visibility, it’s a relentless pursuit. Our engineers meticulously analyze every element. The goal is to provide exceptional visibility for our drivers, ensuring they can keep our children safe both inside and outside of the vehicle.  

The Road Ahead 

As National School Bus Safety Week approaches, it is a good time to reflect on a shared vision of a future where no child’s safety is compromised.  

Innovation in school bus safety is moving at a faster pace than ever before. As the industry embraces evolving safety technologies, we are dedicated to staying at the forefront, adopting advancements that protect our most precious cargo. Our commitment extends beyond engineering excellence; it encompasses a passionate drive to make every ride safer and every journey more secure. 

To learn more about our buses and explore related topics, please visit our website at https://thomasbuiltbuses.com/.