The CLASS system changes spring stiffness instantaneously over a wide range without driver intervention.
METRO spoke to David Wright about some of the keys to the company’s success, and what challenges they are facing.
Just like more recent models of Sun Vans, the new Glaval models still carry up to 14 riders, with room for as many as three wheelchair passengers.
The company will mark its return with a nearly 7,000 square-foot booth, showcasing a range of vehicles suitable for a variety of public and private sector transportation providers.
Built on the Freightliner MB65 front engine chassis, the Apollo featured at BusCon included a Cummins ISB 6.7L new emission diesel engine, standardized rear air-suspension, a 26,000 GVWR and seating for up to 40 passengers, plus driver.
Purchased with funding from the Federal Transportation Administration and the City of Tucson, Sun Van received 35 cutaway vehicles built by Glaval at a cost of $90,000 per vehicle.
Sixty-six percent of operators cited an increase in rides delivered, with an average of 13% reported. More than one-half tap travel training programs to help alleviate demand on fixed-route, while only 16% use taxis to supplement fleets.
Board members voted to place a purchase order for the new buses, which will cost about $80,000 each. Officials said it would take about 90 days for the buses to arrive.
Replacing the 15-bus paratransit fleet is expected to cost $1.2 million — an amount already set aside in Topeka Metro’s capital outlay budget for this fiscal year.
The U.S. General Services Administration will use them for routine patient transportation at Veterans Administration hospitals across the country. Farber Specialty Vehicles, based in Columbus, Ohio, will customize the buses with Glaval Bus bodies.
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