High Point, N.C. – Durham School Services has ordered 288 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner® EF (Engine Forward) buses to be used in Indianapolis Public Schools. Thomas’ Saf-T-Liner EF 2010 models incorporate an array of updates. The new buses, scheduled to start delivering to Durham in late May, will meet the EPA 2010 emissions requirements and be equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, Cummins engines and will feature a redesigned cockpit.

With a focus on driver comfort, Thomas Built Buses new Type D EF cockpit includes an updated engine cover to allow belts and fluid levels to be checked without removing the cover. The redesigned engine cover also creates a roomier passenger entry while the optimized driver’s seat placement and dash redesign allow more knee room. Switches and options are grouped by function to be more intuitive for drivers.

Thomas Built offers SCR technology on all Type C and D vehicles to maximize fuel efficiency and engine performance, while meeting new emissions standards.

“In 2004, Thomas delivered the first Saf-T-Liner C2 off the production line from our new manufacturing plant to Durham,” said Ken Hedgecock, vice president sales, marketing and service, Thomas Built Buses. “With a long history of working together, we are pleased that Durham School Services also will receive the first Saf-T-Liner EF model buses equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction.”

“Our customers are increasingly interested in a sound environmental strategy which includes vehicle replacement programs,” said Greg Miller, senior vice president of Fleet Operations for National Express Corporation. “The new Thomas Built buses will help improve overall fuel economy, reduce our carbon footprint, enhance passenger safety and provide our drivers with maximum comfort.”

Thomas Built Buses is the primary supplier of type C and D buses for Durham School Services, for which it has provided school buses for more than 20 years. Durham School Services, which partners with school districts in 29 states, operates a fleet of more than 13,500 buses.

Thomas Built Buses (www.thomasbus.com) is the leading manufacturer of school buses in North America, with more than one-third of the market. Since the first Thomas Built bus rolled off the assembly line in 1936, the company has been committed to delivering the smartest and most innovative buses in North America.

Thomas Built Buses, Inc. is a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America LLC, the largest heavy-duty truck manufacturer in North America and a leading manufacturer of class 4-8 vehicles. Daimler Trucks North America produces and markets commercial vehicles under the Freightliner, Western Star and Thomas Built Buses nameplates. Daimler Trucks North America is a Daimler company.