Table of Contents
Why are school buses so high up?
School bus seats are higher off the ground so that most opposing vehicles are below the kids’ feet. Seats are closer together than in most vehicles, creating even more of a safe zone. There are no windshields or doors close to riders in an effort to prevent ejection from the bus.
What is a short school bus called?
The Type A school bus is one of seven vehicle types that can be manufactured to federal motor vehicle safety standards for school buses. These buses have traditionally been referred to as “the short bus,” a negative connotation that validates that many units transport students with disabilities.
Why are there short buses?
In the US primary and secondary education systems, “short buses” are school buses equipped to be more accessible for physically, cognitively, and psychiatrically disabled students.
Why do buses have a flat front?
Front-Engine, Flat-Nose, Transit-Style Buses Because the engine is right next to the driver, they can listen for any problems. There’s more space lengthwise inside the bus for more passengers. The broad windshield gives the driver better turn vision, as well as a better view of students entering and exiting the bus.
What are the characteristics of a school bus?
In North America, school buses are purpose-built vehicles distinguished from other types of buses by design characteristics mandated by federal and state regulations. In addition to their distinct paint color (school bus yellow), school buses are fitted with exterior warning lights (to give them traffic priority) and multiple safety devices.
What are the downsides of building a short bus?
Downsides: While maneuverability is definitely a bonus, you will be giving up a significant amount of living space on a short bus. In addition to the loss of space, you may have to make compromises to what you want in your build. For example, many short buses may not have a toilet or shower.
Why are school buses so hard to manufacture?
The custom-built nature of school buses created an inherent obstacle to their profitable mass production on a large scale. Although school bus design had moved away from the wagon-style kid hacks of the generation before, there was not yet a recognized set of industry-wide standards for school buses.
Why did school buses get bigger in the 1950s?
During the 1950s, as student populations began to grow, larger school buses began to enter production. To increase seating capacity (extra rows of seats), manufacturers began to produce bodies on heavier-duty truck chassis; transit-style school buses also grew in size.