School buses are an important part of ensuring all kids get an education, but they’re also notoriously energy inefficient. As older, diesel school buses rotate out of commission, school districts are increasingly choosing electric school buses to round out their fleets.
Here are some ways that electric school buses can help ease the emissions load of large vehicles on the road.
Reduced Emissions and Improved Air Quality
Diesel fuel vehicles, such as buses, emit a variety of pollutants, including greenhouse gasses like nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide. These toxins trap heat within the atmosphere and warm the planet. They can even cause health issues when inhaled in large quantities.
Electric buses run much cleaner than traditional combustion engines. They do not require fossil fuels, nor do they produce harmful pollutants.
The result is improved air quality and improved standard of living for the community.
Help Schools Save Money
Another downside to traditional school buses is the high costs they place on schools. Frequent refills of diesel gas, along with maintenance and upkeep, quickly eats away at the yearly budget.
Because electric vehicles do not require fuel, they are much more affordable in the long run. The money that gets saved goes into the schools instead, improving the services available to students.
Electric vehicles are also made with newer and more durable components compared to aging traditional buses, which means that upkeep is reduced as well.
A More Comfortable Ride
In addition to the rest of the community, electric school buses also benefit the people they directly serve – the student riders.
Without an internal combustion system roaring under the hood, electric buses use a quiet battery. The school bus is therefore quieter and less shaky, allowing for a more comfortable ride.
In addition, electric motors provide more consistent acceleration and deceleration rates, so there is less jerking that may cause students distress and injury. Finally, the elimination of pollutants means students will no longer inhale toxins that leak into the cabin.
Advanced Safety Features
Since the traditional school bus was designed, a lot has changed in the world of technology. Many public transportation vehicles are not equipped with the same safety features we expect in our personal cars.
Because electric vehicles are part of a new and developing field, electric school buses incorporate safety features that protect children. This includes:
- Collision avoidance system
- Lane departure warning system
- Blind spot detection
- Anti-lock braking system
- Electronic stability control
- And emergency braking systems
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