The company’s newest vehicle will be introduced at BusCon in September of this year.

While buses for all its worldwide subsidiaries will be built in China, the Australian-based bus manufacturer plans on completing Altoona testing and opening a final assembly plant in the U.S. to meet Buy America requirements.

Finding the right bus to fit your needs can use up time and energy that you should be spending elsewhere.

The 115,000-square-foot show floor will feature the latest vehicles and products on the market, while educational sessions focus on sustainability, university transit topics and safety.

While virtual relationships are the rage, nothing replaces the energy of face-to-face interactions.

Highlights include new offerings from Freightliner and IC Bus, as well as propane-propelled vehicles and an innovation using solar power. Educational session topics included driver safety, customer service for paratransit and the benefits of alternative fuels.

BusCon 2010 returned to Chicago's Navy Pier and featured a busload of new product innovations, educational programs and fun networking receptions.

IC Bus' "game changer," which was wrapped in support of the National Hockey League's Chicago Blackhawks, comes with comfort features that allow unique customization to meet a fleet's exact needs, from tour and charter operations, hotel or rental car shuttles, paratransit operations, daycare or public transportation.

The 140,000-square-feet of show floor will feature the latest vehicles and products on the market today, while alternative fuels, university transit topics and driver safety will be discussed during educational sessions.

While a bevy of vehicle manufacturers showcased their hybrid models on the show floor, industry experts discussed alternative-fuel options, 2010 engine emissions standards and steps to achieve better fuel economy.