[IMAGE]IC-motorcoach.bmp[/IMAGE]

IC Bus, North America’s largest manufacturer of school buses and also a maker of commercial buses, unveiled its concept plans to enter the motorcoach market in 2010. IC Bus plans to introduce intercity bus models that leverage parent company Navistar’s strengths of aerodynamic design, quiet and fuel-efficient engines, and safety.

IC Bus showcased the new IC Bus Concept Coach to attendees at the APTA EXPO on Monday.

"IC Bus has responded to customer and environmental demands for more fuel-efficient, cleaner and safer buses in the motorcoach market," said John McKinney, vice president and general manager of IC Bus. "Motorcoaches are the next logical step in product development for IC Bus and are a tangible example how Navistar leverages design elements across its businesses."

Although product details will be announced at a later date, the direction of the designs was clear.

"Just as we were able to achieve a seven percent fuel economy advantage over other trucks with the aerodynamic design of Navistar's Class 8 International ProStar tractor, we can apply this experience to differentiate IC Bus from the motorcoach competition,” said David Hillman, director of bus marketing for IC Bus.“For example, extensive wind tunnel and aerodynamics experience can help design the bus to positively affect airflow around the total vehicle."

The new bus models will feature cleaner, greener diesel engine technology with the MaxxForce 13 engine that will comply with 2010 emissions regulations without the need to add urea.