Allied Specialty Vehicles (ASV) announced the formation of a new bus division and appointed Kent Tyler, former president of Collins Bus Corp., to the role of president/CEO for the new group.

“With our recent investment of seven new bus brands, ASV is now one of the largest suppliers of buses in North America. The formation of the new Bus Division will help make the transition into the ASV family as smooth as possible for not only these companies, but also their dealers and customers,” said Jim Meyer, chief operating officer of ASV. “We are thrilled about the opportunities the new Bus Division represents, and excited to have these outstanding brands under the leadership of Kent Tyler.”

The new ASV Bus Division will be comprised of brands including: Collins Bus Corp., Mid Bus, Corbeil, Champion Bus Inc., General Coach America Inc., Goshen Coach Inc., El Dorado National California Inc., El Dorado National Kansas Inc., Krystal Coach and Federal Coach.

“I’m thrilled and honored to be leading this new division within ASV. I look forward to working with all the bus companies and their respective dealer organizations and customers,” said Kent Tyler. “As one of the largest suppliers of buses in North America, it’s critical the ASV Bus Division be synonymous with providing innovative products, outstanding customer service, and the most focused and comprehensive distribution network in the industry.”

Tyler succeeds Andrew Imanse, group president of the ElDorado, Champion and Goshen Bus companies, who recently retired from Thor Industries, the former owner of the bus companies. Imanse has been a prominent figure in the bus industry for more than 20 years. Prior to his role in the bus industry, Imanse spent 20 years in the recreational vehicle industry as president of several companies.

Imanse has agreed to serve as the chairman of the Bus Division Advisory Board and continue to support the bus operations through an extended transition period.  

Most recently, Tyler has been the president/CEO of E-ONE, a fire apparatus manufacturer. Prior to his role with E-ONE, Tyler spent 15 years with Collins Industries, the last five of which he served as president, bus division. He will be based out of the ASV corporate offices in Orlando, Fla.