AZURE DYNAMICS PARTNERS WITH CHAMPION BUS
Azure Dynamics Corporation, developer of state-of-the-art green technologies that address environmental and cost issues for the commercial transportation industry, recently announced a partnership with Champion Bus. The agreement allows Champion Bus customers and dealers the option to select Azure's Balance(TM) Hybrid Electric Drivetrain System in Ford E-450 Shuttle Buses they order from Champion.
Champion ordered its first Azure Balance(TM) Hybrid Electric chassis last fall and has installed their Challenger Body on the product. With its electric-launch assist, engine-off at idle and regenerative braking, the Azure Balance(TM) Hybrid Electric is ideally suited for the tough start and stop conditions endured by shuttle buses. As a result, Champion customers that select the Balance(TM) Hybrid Electric can expect up to 40% improvement in fuel economy and up to 30% reduction in maintenance costs, according to Azure. Importantly, the hybrid drive train also reduces greenhouse emissions by up to 30% thereby reducing the owner's carbon footprint and improving air quality, the company adds.
Champion Bus is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Thor Industries, Inc., a major builder of commercial buses.
