Thomas Built Buses

Located in High Point, North Carolina, Thomas Built Buses produces school buses. The company traces its roots to 1916. The company was founded by Perley A. Thomas, who originally focused on electric streetcars. The business changed to bus production in the 1970s. Since then, it has grown to become the largest full-line bus manufacturer in the United States.

The company has a strong commitment to quality and innovation. In the early 2000s, Thomas expanded its green product line. Today, the company builds environmentally-friendly vehicles, including Saf-T-Liner EFX and Saf-T-Liner HDX. These vehicles are powered by Proterra electric vehicle technology, which provides an estimated operating range of up to 138 miles. In addition, the buses offer a 226-kWh total energy capacity and a two-speed transmission.

The company also has an Alternative Fuel Vehicle Safety Training program. Through this program, school bus operators are able to monitor their fleets' fuel consumption and driver performance. In addition, real-time ridership reporting is available, so that drivers know when students enter or exit the bus.

Thomas Built buses are manufactured in four different models. They are the Saf-T-Liner C2, the Saf-T-Liner EFX, the Saf-T-Liner HDX, and the Saf-T-Liner HDX CNG.

Thomas Built buses can be equipped with a telematics control unit at the factory, which can track fuel consumption and provide fleet information. The units can also track the location of the bus and improve safety. The company also conducts its own training. The company's team leaders receive 40 hours of leadership training at the Guilford Technical Community College.