A webinar hosted by the Propane Education & Research Council outlined the benefits of propane-fueled school buses with transportation professionals that are currently using them in their fleets.

“Blue Bird loves to make buses, and we love to make options,” said Steve Whaley, alternative fuels manager at Blue Bird during the Wednesday webinar. He discussed a comparison with propane to other fuels in terms of cost differential, as he said perception of alternative fuels is that they tend to be more expensive.

With over 20,000 propane buses on the road, Whaley said that savings are significant with average fuel and maintenance costs of about $3,700 per year per bus. As opposed to other clean fuel options and even when compared to diesel, the infrastructure costs are the lowest of any other fuels because propane evaporates leading to fewer regulations from the EPA. Since so much propane is sourced in the U.S., Whaley said transportation departments can avoid the cost instability that comes with outsourcing fuel from outside the country.

Whaley quoted Mike Bullman, director of transportation for the South Carolina Department of Education, as saying, “We don’t need funding for propane, those things pay for themselves.”

To discuss the health benefits of propane, Bailey Arnold from the American Lung Association presented statistics on the high rates of lung cancer in the U.S. As the director of healthy air solutions, Arnold said the organization is committed to fighting the high rates of lung cancer that lead to nearly 125,000 lives lost every year.

He noted that implementing propane is one of the things society can do to combat these mortality rates and health issues as well as high CO2 emissions, explaining that while emissions are commonly measured and analyzed on a yearly basis, “they stack up and have a cumulative effect.”

He said that he would encourage school districts to consider propane now as it will only get more difficult to reduce overall emissions. Arnold referenced a recent NREL study that found that using propane would save 147 tons of carbon emissions in three years, while renewable propane would save 360 tons over the same period.

Amy Rosa, director of safety and transportation at Wa-Nee Community Schools in northern Indiana, is currently running 25 Blue Bird propane buses out of the 56 buses in her fleet that transports 3,000 students. She said losing two parents to lung disease in recent years spurred her passion for cleaner fuels. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen mitigation trust grant funding contributed a lower cost of implementation for the new propane buses. She said her district is always looking to save money to benefit the students and taxpayers, and that propane buses helped do that.

She said the transition was seamless, and that partnerships with the suppliers were supportive. Mechanics and drivers were on board. She said that the drivers appreciate the quieter engines, which “reduces tension with students and drivers” and that these quiet, clean, warm buses are improving student behavioral student issues. In a cold state, she said the quick heating ability of propane buses with no need for auxiliary heaters has been a benefit, and that her drivers have told her, “I love knowing my bus will start no matter how cold it gets.”

Whaley noted that Diane Mikelski, the recently retired director of transportation at Illinois’ Township High School District 211, will be speaking about her experience with propane buses at the upcoming Transporting Students with Disabilities and Special Needs (TSD) Conference in November on the benefits of a quieter bus on student behavior.

Sam Corson, the bus and automotive maintenance manager at Newport News Community Schools in Virginia, said he has seen immediate positive results from using propane buses. He said with wide city borders, which requires school bus drivers to often log 100 to 200 miles a day, long-range buses are necessary. He said Newport News has had no issues with propane buses doing around 340 miles on one tank.

Corson said that about 80 percent of district routes are covered by the 180 propane buses out of 306 total in the fleet,. Cost savings are evident, with diesel buses costing 38 cents per mile to operate compared to 29 cents on propane.

“I noticed all the things [a propane bus] does not have that I was continuously fixing on a daily basis,” he shared, and continued that he has seen a reduction in bus breakdowns.

Learning maintenance was simple for his team, he said, noting that the local Blue Bird dealership led training for all the mechanics to make sure they were comfortable with the new buses. Corson said that due fewer regulations and overall positive reactions to propane buses, the district decided to not decommission and replace the fuel tank.

Both Rosa and Corson praised the ROUSH CleanTech fueling software that allows them to keep track of fuel levels and that suppliers have been consistent. They also noted that they did not have to invest in new additions for their maintenance facilities when implementing propane.

When asked what she would tell another director who is considering buying propane buses, Rosa said, “No hesitation…the choice is a no-brainer for kids and for your mechanics, for bus drivers. It’s just a really good choice all around. I couldn’t think of any reason why you wouldn’t.”

Corson said his advice is to “jump in 100 percent.”

“I couldn’t see myself buying [another] diesel unless I was forced to,” he continued, adding that maintenance is much simpler on propane buses and any issues that do come up are usually easy fixes.

Watch the webinar on demand.

Related: Ride and Drive, Technology Product Demos Return to Texas in November
Related: Propane Best Immediate Option For Greening Fleet, Says Rural Missouri School District
Related: Students, Staff at Illinois District Approve of Propane School Buses

The post Webinar Discusses Impact of Propane School Buses on Costs, Health and Maintenance appeared first on School Transportation News.

Expert speakers at the Transporting Students with Disabilities and Special Needs (TSD) Conference will provide attendees with a solid foundation to provide transportation for students with special needs.The “Foundations of Special Needs Transportation” session will be held on Friday, Nov. 7 to open up the conference. The three-hour session will feature panelists Alexandra Robinson, president at A. Robinson Consulting, and newly inducted NAPT hall of famer, Katrina Morris, executive director for Michigan Association for Pupil Transportation (MAPT), and John Benish, chief operating officer at school bus contractor Cook-Illinois Corporation.

The panelists will discuss federal laws and regulations pertaining to the transportation of students with special needs, including a breakdown of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), the meaning of a free and appropriate education (FAPE) and least restrictive environment (LRE), and McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act details.

The instructors will also cover operational considerations, including child passenger safety equipment, training for drivers to accommodate student needs, how to make sure transportation needs are included in student Individual Education Plans or IEPs and vehicle specifications. Attendees will be encouraged to ask questions and review scenarios to determine what best practices for transporting students with special needs would be.

The TSD Conference will be held Nov. 6 through Nov. 11 at Embassy Suites Dallas-Frisco Hotel and Convention Center. Visit tsdconference.com to register and view the conference agenda, which includes dozens of educational sessions, hands-on training, networking events, product demonstrations and keynotes all focused on transportation of students with special needs.

Related: New TSD Conference School Bus Attendant Seminar to Provide Training Guidelines
Related: TSD Keynote to Outline Legal Considerations When Transporting Students with Disabilities
Related: Former OSERS Leader, Advocate for People with Disabilities to Keynote TSD Conference

The post Foundations of Transporting Students with Special Needs Returns to TSD Conference appeared first on School Transportation News.

Porsche has used their third quarter earnings call to reveal time is almost up for three different vehicles including the current gas-powered Macan. This is worth noting as the crossover is the brand’s most popular vehicle as 64,783 units have been delivered in the first nine months of the year.

During the call, Finance and IT Board Member Dr Jochen Breckner said the current ICE-powered Macan will be offered “throughout 2026 and, in some markets, even in 2027, based on a final stocking that we will do.” He went on to say the exact end of production hasn’t been decided, but it will be “more or less in the middle of 2026.”

More: This Audi Q5 Could Actually Be The New ICE Porsche Macan

However, it sounds like the company will stockpile vehicles in important markets to help buy time until the redesigned crossover arrives. Speaking of which, the second-generation Macan will be offered with conventional and plug-in hybrid powertrains. They will be sold alongside the current Macan Electric.

Previous reports have suggested the upcoming model will be based on the Audi Q5 and spy photographers caught a prototype being tested by Porsche earlier this year. The move makes sense as the brand is throttling back their EV push as part of a product realignment that will see “additional models featuring combustion and plug-in-hybrid powertrains.”

As Breckner noted, “Starting in 2028, a more balanced drivetrain offering will further strengthen our market position and support sustainable long-term growth.” This effort will be supported by ICE-powered versions of the redesigned 718 as well as the next Macan, which is apparently being referred to as the “B-SUV.” Furthermore, Porsche’s flagship SUV has abandoned electric power and will instead offer gas and plug-in hybrid options.

Getting back to the 718, the current Boxster and Cayman are quickly approaching the end of the line. Production wraps up later this month and Breckner said “we are producing the very last cars these days.” However, the automaker will still have a handful of models in inventory to help tide things over until the next-generation sports car arrives.

Porsche Is Having A Terrible Year

As for the financials, they weren’t pretty despite record deliveries in the United States. Through the first nine months of the year, Porsche’s operating profit plummeted from over €4 ($4.6) billion in 2025 to a mere €40 ($46) million this time around.

The company blamed the massive drop on a variety of factors including their product realignment strategy, challenging market conditions in China, and “one-off effects” relating to battery activities. Tariffs also played a role and it sounds like they’ll cost the company around €700 ($814) million this year alone.

To help offset the impact of tariffs, Porsche will “further strengthen” their pricing position throughout 2025 and 2026. The company has also increased prices to keep their margins at a “decent level.”

Despite terrible looking numbers, Porsche noted automotive net cash flow increased from €1.24 ($1.44) billion to €1.34 ($1.56) billion. The company said this “demonstrates the resilience of the business operations and shows that Porsche is performing robustly even under challenging conditions.”

Porsche Q3 Overview

Lightweight, relatively affordable, mid-engine sports cars are almost unheard of these days, but the Alpine A110 has been serving enthusiasts ever since 2017. However, its time is coming to an end as the French automaker has announced the final units are going into production.

Alpine’s Dieppe Jean Rédélé plant will only build 1,750 more cars including 50 units of the extreme A110 R 70. Production is scheduled to wrap up in mid-2026 and, by that time, nearly 30,000 second-generation A110s will have been built.

More: Alpine Introduces New A110 GTS And R 70 Special Edition

While it’s sad to see the car go, it won’t be the end of the A110 story. Quite the opposite as a third-generation model will be introduced next year. It will ride on the all-new Alpine High Performance Electric Platform (APP) and be a “proper electric sports car.”

As for the current model, Alpine offers the A110, A110 GTS, and A110 R 70. The entry-level coupe starts at €66,900 in France and features a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine developing 248 hp (185 kW / 252 PS) and 236 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque.

It’s connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which enables the 2,429 lb (1,102 kg) coupe to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.5 seconds.

The €79,900 A110 GTS has an upgraded engine producing 296 hp (221 kW / 300 PS) and 251 lb-ft (340 Nm) of torque. This lowers the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time to 4.2 seconds, while the top speed climbs up to 170 mph (274 km/h).

Buyers will also find a sportier suspension, an active sports exhaust, and 18-inch forged wheels.

Sitting at the top of the lineup is the €122,900 A110 R 70, which celebrates the brand’s 70th anniversary. It’s limited to 770 units and features an assortment of carbon fiber components including the hood, roof, wheels, and rear spoiler.

Lucid has come under fire in the past year for hitting customers with unexpected charges at the end of their leases, often for tiny areas of damage. What began as a few scattered complaints has grown into a avalanche, with more and more owners coming forward to share similar experiences online.

It’s worth noting that Lucid’s leasing arm, Lucid Financial Services, operates in partnership with Bank of America. The bank apparently employs independent inspection firms to assess vehicles when leases end, which adds another layer between Lucid and the customer.

Not too long after we brought you the story of one Lucid Air lessee being charged $2,400 for underbody damage, another lessee has taken to social media to describe their dismay after receiving an even heftier bill.

According to a post on Reddit, they scored a decent deal on an 18-month leases for an Air, but were shocked to be charged $3,800 at the end of the lease for what Lucid describes as “Excess Wear.”

Read: Lucid Owner Hit With Surprise Bill Months After Turning In Their Lease

The first charge, $300, makes sense because one of the key fobs was missing. Then came the single biggest of them all: $2,400 for a damaged front bumper. According to Lucid’s inspector, the bumper had two scratches, one six-inch and one five-inch.

Interestingly, the lower front bumper cover has a pair of 15-inch scratches but will be replaced free of charge. That’s the same part a separate lessee damaged recently and was charged $2,400 for.

Then there are the wheels. Lucid spotted a four-inch area of curb rash on the left front wheel and charged $200 to repair it. It then noticed 19 inches worth of curb rash on the right rear wheel, but rather than repairing it, charged $900 for a replacement.

Paint Chips Are Fine, But Not Curb Rash

On the bright side, the company appears to have accepted some areas of wear and tear on the cover. For example, there are some minor chips on the hood and front cowl and a small dent on the left front door that it hasn’t charged the customer for.

Lucid has offered some compelling leasing deals for the Air, but factoring in the end-of-lease charges, this customer saw their monthly costs effectively increase by $200.

Understandably, people on Reddit weren’t impressed by this incident. “Absolutely crazy! This is equivalent to going to a restaurant and charging for every salt grain added to the dish,” one person wrote.

Another chimed in with their own experience: “I’ve had three Maserati leases, one Ghibli, two GranTurismos that I know Ally/Chase lost a bunch of money from… scrapped them and curbed the wheel and even returned with a crack in the tail light, zero charge and even got my security deposit back on each one!”

If you’ve leased a Lucid yourself, we’d like to hear from you. Did your experience line up with these reports, or was the process smooth from start to finish? Share your story in the comments or reach out to us directly.

Amazon already fields thousands of Rivian-built electric delivery vans across the United States, but the next addition to its fleet will be much smaller, lighter, and human-powered. The company plans to deploy new pedal-assist quads from Also, the micromobility firm spun out of Rivian that’s carving its own niche in the urban logistics scene.

The TM-Q quad, unveiled this week alongside the two-wheeled TM-B, will hit the pavement in spring 2026.

Read: Rivian’s Spinoff Brand Also Is Selling A Futuristic Two-Wheeler With Pedals

Just like the TM-B electric bike that you can buy for a hefty $4,500, the TM-Q quad has a small battery, a generator, and two pedals. These pedals help to power the generator, and the pedal-by-wire drivetrain directs power to the rear.

However, whereas the TM-B has just two wheels, the TM-Q has four and can be configured in a variety of different ways. Amazon’s model has been previewed with a large cargo area at the rear that can reportedly hold more than 400 pounds of packages.

Importantly, it remains small enough to legally use bike lanes and could prove to be perfect for last-mile delivery services, particularly in large, densely populated cities. The e-commerce giant will use the T-MQ throughout the United States and Europe.

Rivian holds a minority stake in Also, and its boss, RJ Scaringe, will serve on Also’s board. The micromobility firm has received $105 million in funding from Eclipse and will make use of Rivian’s retail presence, economies, and scale.

Also says that the TM-Q has been designed, engineered, and tested to automotive standards. Consumer-focused versions of the quad will come without the cargo topper like Amazon’s model, and be available with several different rear beds, including one that has bench seating that fits up to four children.

“Amazon already operates more than 70 micromobility hubs in cities across the U.S. and Europe,” said Emily Barber, Amazon’s Director of Global Fleet.

“Micromobility solutions like pedal-assist e-cargo quads allow us to quickly deliver to customers in dense, urban cities, while helping reduce traffic and noise. Similar to our Rivian EDV partnership, working with ALSO provides an opportunity to continue to innovate in this space, building on our delivery logistics experience, paired with their advanced technology, safety, and performance features,” she added.

A slowing EV market has prompted Rivian to slash more than 600 jobs across its workforce, despite the company’s expansion plans and having several new models in the pipeline.

The layoffs, which represent about 4.5 percent of Rivian’s staff, were announced soon after the company lowered its delivery forecast for the year, now expecting to sell fewer vehicles than in both 2023 and 2024.

Read: Rivian Axes Staff As Trump’s Policies Rip A Hole In Its Revenue Plans

Most of the reductions are being made across commercial teams in Rivian’s servicing and sales divisions. Additionally, Chief executive RJ Scaringe told employees in an internal memo that the company is consolidating several departments into a single marketing organization, with Scaringe temporarily taking the helm himself.

“These are not changes that were made lightly,” Scaringe wrote. “With the changing operating backdrop, we had to rethink how we are scaling our go-to-market functions. This news is challenging to hear, and the hard work and contributions of the team members who are leaving are greatly appreciated.”

These job cuts, first reported by the Wall Street Journal, come just a month after Rivian made a separate round of layoffs, cutting approximately 225 jobs, also targeting its sales and service operations in both the United States and Canada.

Sales Crunch

Rivian reported a record 13,201 sales in the third quarter, marking a 32 percent rise over the previous period. That figure, however, was partly inflated by customers rushing to buy before the federal EV tax credit expired.

Deliveries are expected to drop sharply in the final quarter, with Rivian forecasting year-end sales between 41,500 and 43,500 vehicles. By contrast, the company delivered 50,100 units in 2023 and 51,579 in 2024, signaling a noticeable downturn as the broader EV market settles into a slower growth phase.

Next year, the electric car manufacturer plans to start production of the long-awaited R2. The upcoming model will be smaller than the current R1T and R1S and is expected to start at around $45,000. After it hits the market, Rivian will follow it up with the R3, R4, and R5.

For decades, most people have known Sharp for televisions, microwaves, and air purifiers, not for anything with wheels. Now the company seems intent on extending its home-tech comfort onto the road.

The Japanese electronics giant is deepening its move into the automotive sector, leaning on Foxconn’s R&D and manufacturing strength to get there. Its latest effort is a far more developed version of the LDK+ electric minivan concept, set to debut at the Japan Mobility Show later this month.

More: Sharp And Foxconn Team Up On An Electric Minivan With A 65-Inch Rear Display

The latest LDK+ moves noticeably closer to a production-ready vehicle than the 2024 prototype. The proportions are now more in line with a conventional minivan, leaving behind the cab-over profile of its earlier version.

Getting Closer To The Final Product

The front end is now more pronounced, featuring full-width LED headlights integrated into a covered grille with the Sharp logo. Even so, the overall design is rather generic, despite the two-tone finish.

The minivan features sliding doors and an upright rear, while traditional mirrors and door handles hint that the concept is nearing production.

Another image offers a look inside the cabin, entered through a wide pillarless opening. The layout includes a flat floor, a swiveling driver’s seat that can face the rear, and a console box fitted with a foldable table.

A rear bench for three passengers is positioned further back, sacrificing cargo space but creating a lounge-like environment with ambient lighting.

Sharp envisions the LDK+ as an “extension of the living room” when parked. While the massive 65-inch screen of the original concept is gone, the updated model gains a projector and a retractable screen above the rear bench, transforming the cabin into a mobile theater or remote workspace.

More: Mitsubishi’s New SUV Concept Doubles As A Hotel On Wheels

The EV incorporates Sharp’s AIoT platform, allowing it to link with household devices such as appliances, air conditioners, and washing machines. It uses AI to learn user habits and preferences, and supports V2H functionality, solar integration, and residential battery systems.

Shared EV Platform

The Sharp LDK+ shares its underpinnings with the Foxconn Model A. The latter was unveiled in concept form last year with a highly modular interior and a configurable exterior that can be tailored for professional and personal use.

The company has yet to share the specifications of the electric powertrain or the battery pack that will likely be carried over to its Sharp sibling.

Foxconn’s own minivan is due to reach Japanese roads in early 2027, followed by a rollout across ASEAN markets.

Sharp hasn’t confirmed when or where its version will launch, though more details are expected at the Japan Mobility Show on October 30.

Sharp

In a sign of the times, Heico Sportiv, the German tuner long aligned with Volvo, has broadened its horizons to another brand under the Geely umbrella. The company now offers bespoke upgrades for China’s Lynk & Co range in Europe, including the 01, 02, and 08 SUVs.

What caught our attention is the Lynk & Co 02, a sharp-looking small SUV with an electric powertrain that was introduced in 2024. Heico Sportiv has fitted it with 21-inch Volution alloy wheels featuring a ten-spoke layout. These sit an inch above the factory’s top-spec option and can be ordered in gloss black, matt titanium, or matte gold bronze, each available in regular or diamond-cut finishes.

More: Volvo’s Largest SUV Trades Comfort For A Shot At Performance

The new rims are paired with sport springs, bringing the model closer to the ground by 35 mm (1.4-inch). The more aggressive stance is accentuated by subtle aero components focused on the lower part of the bodywork.

The kit includes a front splitter, side skirts, and a rear bumper extension, all featuring a body-colored finish contrasting with the glossy black surfaces of the EV. The tuner didn’t add a rear spoiler, leaving the coupe-style roofline and protruding full-width LED taillights intact.

The Lynk & Co 02 is mechanically related to the Volvo EX30 and the Zeekr X. It rides on Geely’s SEA platform featuring a rear-mounted electric motor with 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and a 66 kWh battery pack. Heico Sportiv doesn’t offer any performance upgrades, which means that the EV still does the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in 5.5 seconds, and has a limited top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).

The tuner said that its products will be offered through Lynk & Co’s European distribution network, ensuring full warranty coverage.

Pricing

The 21-inch wheels cost between €2,400-3,560 ($2,800-4,100) a set depending on the chosen finish. The sport springs will set you back €390 ($450) and the spacers add another €335 ($390). The company has yet to announce prices for the aero components but offers branded velour floor mats for €185 ($215).

More: Volvo EX30 Gains Bodykit And 21-Inch Wheels From Heico Sportiv

The modified Lynk & Co will make its public premiere at the Auto Zurich show in Switzerland on October 30. In the same venue, Heico Sportiv will also exhibit a Volvo XC60 T8 with a bodykit, a lowered suspension, a sports exhaust, an upgraded engine, beefier brakes and 22-inch wheels, plus a Polestar 4 with the same set of wheels and an Aubergine Bronze wrap.

Furthermore, the company shared photos of a modified Lynk & Co 01 in EV and PHEV forms with similar styling and chassis upgrades. The available accessories for the larger Lynk & Co 08 PHEV will be announced on a later date.

Heico Sportiv

In Brazil's coffee-producing areas, more than 42,000 square miles of forest have disappeared over about two decades, says Coffee Watch. Deforestation leads to drought, which harms crop yields.

(Image credit: Evaristo Sa)

A video quickly circulating online showed a father boarding a school bus and telling his daughter to hit another student. The man has now been arrested by local police.

The incident occurred Oct. 9 on a Ferguson-Florissant School District near St. Louis, Missouri. On Tuesday, the Ferguson Police Department identified the father as Maurice Fox, 36, in a statement.

In the video footage released by the department, Fox is seen onboard the bus telling his first-grade daughter to assault another student saying, “This one? Yeah, do what I told you to,” and “Don’t put your hands on my daughter no more because if I find out you’re touching her again, your parents will have to talk to me.” The daughter then begins punching the other student. When she stops, Fox says, “Again, I want her crying.”

Fox later posted on social media that he felt he did what he needed to do to teach his daughter to defend herself from bullies

A news article reported that before Fox was taken into custody, he created an online fundraiser seeking donations for his legal defense. But a spokesperson for GoFundMe said the platform’s terms of service prohibit people charged with violent crimes from raising money for their legal defense. The fundraising page was removed and donations were refunded.

The article also said that according to an affidavit, the school bus driver tried to stop Fox, but “he pushed the driver’s arm out of the way and continued walking.” The video blurs the faces of all others on the school bus, but the school bus driver appears to be seated at the front of the vehicle.

The statement said that Ferguson Police Chief Troy Doyle confirmed that Fox turned himself and is being held at the St. Louis County Justice Center with a $100,000 bond.

Prior to Fox’s arrest on Monday after turning himself in, police said he was being sought on an at-large warrant from the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s office. Fox is now also facing charges of one count of first-degree harassment, two counts of assault in the fourth degree and trespassing on a school bus.

“This incident is extremely troubling on many levels. As adults, we have a responsibility to model appropriate behavior and teach our children how to resolve conflict peacefully. Encouraging violence among children — especially in such a public and frightening way — is unacceptable. We are grateful this individual chose to turn himself in, and we hope this brings some measure of accountability,” said Police Chief Troy Doyle.

He continued, “No child should ever be exposed to that kind of behavior, especially in a setting that should feel safe, like a school bus,” he said. “We encourage parents and guardians to work with school officials, counselors and community resources when facing conflicts involving their children. Collaboration and communication, not confrontation, are how we keep our kids and schools safe.”

In the comments on the police statement, many people commented on the difficult emotions of knowing a child is being bullied, but that there are better ways to handle the situation.

School Transportation News reached out to Ferguson-Florissant School District for comment and received the following statement from their communications department:

“We fully cooperated with law enforcement as they addressed this matter. Student and staff safety is always our top priority, and we will not tolerate anything that compromises their safety. School buses are an extension of the school campus. Trespassing on a school bus and engaging in the behavior described in this incident are completely unacceptable.”

Related: School Violence Grant Provides Opportunity for Threat Assessment Training
Related: Florida District Introduces Innovative Safety Training for School Bus Drivers
Related: 9-Year-Old Arrested for Bringing Loaded Gun onto Florida School Bus

The post Missouri Parent Boards School Bus, Tells Child to Assault Another Student appeared first on School Transportation News.

MESA, Ariz.,- Verra Mobility Corporation (NASDAQ: VRRM), a leading provider of smart mobility technology solutions, continues its commitment to National School Bus Safety Week (October 20-24) by providing a toolkit promoting safe school transportation to communities nationwide.

Passing a stopped school bus with its stop arm extended is illegal in every state, yet nearly one in four drivers are unaware of this law, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. As a leading provider of school bus stop arm enforcement technology, Verra Mobility recognizes the importance of education around school bus safety and invites communities nationwide to help spread awareness.

The need for education is urgent. Children are vulnerable to being killed or injured when boarding or deboarding a school bus, and illegal school bus passing violations can lead to devastating consequences. During the 2023-2024 school year alone, victims included a 15-year-old student in Alabama, a 15-year-old student in Texas, and an 8-year-old student in Georgia, all of whom were boarding or exiting their school bus while the school bus’s stop arm was extended with lights flashing.

To encourage communities and organizations to raise awareness around school transportation safety, Verra Mobility created its toolkit with ready-to-share social media posts, educational messaging, and statistics. The toolkit equips communities with ready-to-use resources, including social media posts, digital collateral, educational messaging, and statistics to emphasize the importance of safe driving around school buses.

To download the free materials and share this important safety message, visit www.verramobility.com/national-school-bus-safety-week-toolkit.

“Children – our most vulnerable citizens – must be able to get to and from school safely,” said David Dorfman, senior vice president, Verra Mobility. “This week is a great reminder that we can all make a difference and help improve safety for our children. We’re proud to once again partner with communities nationwide to raise awareness around the importance of safe driving near school buses, and to remind drivers that a child’s life is not worth saving a few minutes.”

One available resource that can help reduce illegal school bus passings is Verra Mobility’s school bus stop arm program which works when the bus’s stop arm is deployed. AI-enabled cameras capture video evidence of vehicles illegally passing the stopped school bus; the violation is then transmitted to a secure platform and reviewed by law enforcement.

These programs have been shown to change driver behavior, with 98% of drivers who are issued a violation for illegally passing a stopped school bus not repeating their behavior, and with some programs experiencing up to a 67% reduction in issued citations when comparing the beginning of the school year to the end.

“Verra Mobility has equipped thousands of school buses across the country with life-saving technology that helps communities improve school transportation safety,” said Dorfman. “This week allows us to highlight the positive impact of these efforts while educating parents and students on how they can prevent school transportation-related tragedies.”

To learn more about the school bus stop arm safety program, visit
www.verramobility.com/government/school-bus-safety/.

About Verra Mobility
Verra Mobility Corporation (NASDAQ: VRRM) is a leading provider of smart mobility technology solutions that make transportation safer, smarter and more connected. The company sits at the center of the mobility ecosystem, bringing together vehicles, hardware, software, data and people to enable safe, efficient solutions for customers globally. Verra Mobility’s transportation safety systems and parking management solutions protect lives, improve urban and motorway mobility and support healthier communities. The company also solves complex payment, utilization and compliance challenges for fleet owners and rental car companies. Headquartered in Arizona, Verra Mobility operates in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. For more information, please visit www.verramobility.com.

The post Verra Mobility champions student safety during National School Bus Safety Week appeared first on School Transportation News.

PASADENA, Calif. — At RIDE, every mile matters, especially when it comes to the safety of our children. As we celebrate School Bus Safety Week Oct. 20–24, we’re proud to highlight how RIDE 100% battery-electric school buses are redefining safety and sustainability through advanced innovation.

“Safety isn’t just a feature — it’s our foundation,” Patrick Duan, Co-CEO RIDE Mobility said. “Our Blade Battery, built on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) technology, sets the industry standard as the safest and most reliable battery system available today.”

Designed to withstand extreme conditions and prevent thermal runaway, the award-winning and innovative Blade Battery ensures every school bus ride is as secure as it is smooth. Through rigorous testing, the Blade Battery delivers unmatched protection for children. Parents get the assurance and peace of mind they need, knowing their children are safe on their way to and home from school.

Beyond safety, RIDE’s all-electric, zero-emission buses eliminate tailpipe pollution, creating a quieter, cleaner cabin environment and contributing to a healthier community, directly benefiting the long-term respiratory health of our communities.

Based in Pasadena, California, RIDE is committed to protecting students and giving peace of mind to parents, drivers, and communities across the country. Visit ride.co to learn how RIDE is shaping the future of clean, safe student transportation.

About RIDE:
Headquartered in Pasadena, Calif., with a 550,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Lancaster, Calif., RIDE, founded in 2023, is the US spinoff of BYD. RIDE builds award-winning battery electric school buses, transit buses, motorcoaches and trucks for the U.S. market. RIDE is a union employer with a unique community benefits agreement that offers opportunities to those who have faced previous barriers to employment. A global force in clean energy and transportation, BYD is the world’s leading battery and EV manufacturer. Visit our website RIDE.CO to learn more.

The post RIDE Celebrates School Bus Safety Week appeared first on School Transportation News.

A school bus fire in Bethel, Minnesota, turned into a dramatic rescue earlier this month when a mother helped evacuate 22 elementary students just moments before flames engulfed the vehicle, reported CBS News.

According to the news report, Kari Thorp was waiting for her daughter’s school bus when she noticed smoke and flames coming from underneath the vehicle as it stopped in front of her home. She quickly alerted the driver, Rick Gratton, and the two acted fast to get the children off the bus safely.

“It was crazy. I’m just thankful that he was very calm,” Thorp said via the article.

Thorp’s Ring doorbell camera captured the scene as students from East Bethel Elementary gathered on her lawn, visibly shaken while flames spread rapidly through the front of the bus.

“Kids were crying. Kids were scared and freaking out,” Thorp told local news reporters. “It was quite emotional and kind of frantic.”

The fire escalated quickly. Within 15 minutes, the front of the bus was fully engulfed, and the intense heat even melted part of the road in front of Thorp’s house.

Though some backpacks, lunch boxes and the bus itself were lost in the fire, no injuries were reported. The students’ safe evacuation is being credited to the swift response of Thorp and Gratton as well as the children’s recent school bus safety training.

Both Thorp and Gratton were recognized for their “heroic efforts” in getting all students to safety by St. Francis Area Schools. Thorp reflected on how different things might have turned out if she hadn’t been outside at the time.

“I don’t think he would have gotten very far. And I don’t think we would have been able to get those kids off the bus as fast,” she said via the report. “A lot of little ones sit up front, and that’s where it all started.”

An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.

Related: California Student Honored for Quick Thinking During School Bus Fire
Related: Missouri Students Learn School Bus, Fire Safety During Back-to-School Bash
Related: WATCH: Fire Expert to Lead School Bus Evacuation Training at STN EXPO West
Related: Electric School Bus Catches Fire in Montreal, No Injuries Reported

The post Minnesota Mom Helps Evacuate 22 Students from Burning School Bus appeared first on School Transportation News.

Registration is now open for the 2026 ACT Expo, which returns to Las Vegas, Nevada, in the spring.

The 16th ACT Expo, held May 4-7 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, will feature sessions on AI and autonomy as well as zero-emission vehicles. Originally called the Advanced Clean Transportation, ACT Expo for short, will now be known solely as ACT Expo, which event producers TRC Companies, said reflects the “expanded scope across advanced, autonomous, connected, and clean transportation technologies.”

TRC noted that ACT Expo can no longer “be simply defined as the clean or advanced technology show — it has become so much more.”

ACT now stands for the following:

• Advanced, Autonomous, Alternative, AI, Analytics, Adaptable, Assets
• Clean, Commercial, Connected, Cost-Effective, Compliant, Charged, Carbon-free
• Transportation, Technology, Transition, Trailers, Telematics, TCO, Tires

The event, which annually attracts over 12,000 attendees and 500 exhibitors, “offers end-users the most current insight into the key technology trends driving the market today and in the years ahead, practical lessons from peers, direct access to every major OEM and industry supplier in the market, strategies to boost competitiveness and accelerate the use of high-tech and clean vehicles and fuel, and the relationships that drive long-term success,” a press release on the event states.

The ACT Expo traditionally has hosted one school-bus-specific session each year and features school buses on the trade floor from various manufacturers. This year, however, TRC Companies said ACT Expo will place a greater emphasis on the digital frontier, reflecting industry investment in software-defined vehicles, real-time data collection and analysis via the use of AI and autonomy.

Related: (STN Podcast E257) The Paths Forward: AI, Clean Energy, Manufacturing Discussed at ACT Expo
Related: ACT Expo Heads Back to Anaheim, Agenda Released
Related: School Bus Wi-Fi Solution Now Available for Districts Left in E-Rate Cold
Related: WATCH: Michigan Association Releases Illegal Passing PSA for School Bus Safety Week

“Through end-user case studies, the event will highlight how these cutting-edge technologies are improving performance, safety, and ROI, while giving attendees a clear view of where and how they are scaling,” the release states.

In addition to the technologies, the conference will continue to highlight ultra-clean vehicles and low-carbon fuels, spotlighting infrastructure.

“The pace of change and acceleration of advanced technologies in commercial transportation is phenomenal; it’s unlike anything we have seen before,” stated Erik Neandross, president of Clean Transportation Solutions at TRC. “From the boardroom to the show floor, ACT Expo is the one place where C-suite representatives from fleets, OEMs, and infrastructure partners engage directly to shape real-world progress and the future of their businesses. It’s where fleet leaders learn what’s actually working in the field, what’s just around the corner, and where they can better understand proven strategies that can deliver both economic and environmental results.”

School Transportation News is a media sponsor of the event.

The post ACT EXPO Registration Opens, Event Focus on AI and Autonomy appeared first on School Transportation News.

A fire at a Novelis aluminum plant has disrupted operations for several automakers, including Ford and its top-selling F-150. The setback has been costly, but the Blue Oval plans to bounce back next year by ramping up truck production.

Under the plan, the Dearborn Truck Plant will add a third shift with roughly 1,200 employees. This will be supported by more than 90 new workers at Dearborn Stamping as well as more than 80 additional employees at Dearborn Diversified Manufacturing.

More: 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning Solves Its Biggest Flaws For Free

Thanks to these workers and the extra shift, Ford aims to produce an additional 45,000+ F-150s in 2026. They’ll have traditional powertrains as the F-150 Lightning hasn’t lived up to expectations.

Assembly of the electric truck will “remain paused” indefinitely as the company is prioritizing production of models with gas and hybrid powertrains. The automaker added these types of trucks are “more profitable for Ford and use less aluminum.”

Due to the pause, hourly employees at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center will transfer to the nearby Dearborn Truck Plant to join the third shift. The shift will also consist of new hires as well as some transfers from other plants.

To increase production of the popular F-Series Super Duty, the automaker is investing $60 million into the Kentucky Truck Plant. These funds will help speed up the production line, so that one additional truck will be built every hour. That might not sound like much, but it will result in more than 5,000 additional pickups.

The funds will also be used to help train new employees. Speaking of which, the plant is expected to add more than 100 jobs.

In total, the automaker will increase production by more than 50,000 units and create up to 1,000 new jobs. Ford’s Chief Operating Officer, Kumar Galhotra, said “The people who keep our country running depend on America’s most popular vehicle – F-Series trucks – and we are mobilizing our team to meet that demand.”

Novelis Fire Could Cost Ford $1 Billion

Novelis

The announcement to ramp up production comes as Ford revealed the “Novelis headwind” could cost them up to $1 billion in losses between 2025 and 2026.

CEO Jim Farley has already visited the damaged plant and said, “We are working intensively with Novelis and others to source aluminum that can be processed in the cold rolling section of the plant that remains operational, while also working to restore overall plant production.” This has enabled them to “minimize the impact in 2025 and recover production in 2026.”

Given the fallout of the fire, Ford now expects to finish the year with an adjusted EBIT of $6 billion to $6.5 billion as well as an adjusted free cash flow of $2 billion to $3 billion.

It wasn’t all bad news as third quarter revenue reached a record of $50.5 billion. That’s up 9% from a year ago and the company posted a net income of $2.4 billion. Unfortunately, Trump’s tariffs cost the automaker roughly $700 million.

Time flies. Believe it or not, it’s been eight whole years since Tesla first unveiled the second-generation Roadster. Back then, the all-electric sports car was pitched as a new benchmark for EV performance, a car that would silence skeptics and rewrite the rulebook.

Since then, though, plenty of other brands have done the rewriting themselves.

Over the years, the brand has launched the Cybertruck, refreshed the Model 3 and Model Y, and promised real Full Self-Driving several times, while the Roadster feels like its been surpassed at best, vaporware wortse.

According to Tesla’s chief designer, Franz von Holzhausen, however, it’s not dead, it’s simply fashionably late.

More: 8 Years Later, Tesla’s Still Taking $50K Roadster Reservations Musk Promised For 2020

Speaking on the Ride the Lightning podcast, von Holzhausen was asked if the long-promised “most epic demo ever” that Elon Musk teased earlier this year is still happening in 2025, he said “We are planning on this year,” suggesting Tesla still aims to showcase the car before the year’s end.

However, with roughly 10 weeks left until New Year’s Day, time is running out. 

Pressed further about when customers might actually take delivery, von Holzhausen replied: “Definitely within two years.” That would put first deliveries somewhere around the end of 2027, assuming nothing slips, which, given Tesla’s track record with timelines, is far from guaranteed. 

When it arrives, Tesla claims the Roadster will be capable of hitting 60 mph in under two seconds, reaching a top speed north of 250 mph, and have up to 620 miles of range, with talk of rocket-style thrusters for good measure.

Those are very lofty numbers, but until someone sees one outside of a studio light, they are just that: numbers.

Read: Ex-Tesla Alums Debut New Electric Roadster Named To Taunt Elon Musk

It’s worth remembering (as if anyone forgot) that Tesla might be as well known for over-promising and under-delivering as it is for actual automotive innovation. The Cybertruck famously showed up late with less range and a higher price than initially promised – and that’s but one example among many.

Right now, von Holzhausen insists the final product will be worth the wait. But as the years go by, the Roadster’s story feels less like a promising sequel and more like a project Tesla simply can’t afford to get wrong. 

Stellantis could soon find itself stepping into unfamiliar territory, as it is reportedly exploring the idea of adding Chinese-built models to its European lineup under familiar badges. According to insider sources, Opel is eyeing the electric Leapmotor B10 as its first possible contender.

German outlet Automobilwoche reports that the Chinese SUV might wear Opel badges as early as next year. Leapmotor, a Chinese EV manufacturer partly owned by Stellantis, has been steadily expanding its footprint both at home and abroad.

More: Stellantis Just Sent Europe A Warning With This Chinese-Built Electric Hatch

The unnamed source notes that while a final decision remains pending, the proposal represents “an interesting opportunity to offer a well-equipped and affordable EV in the compact SUV segment.” For now, Opel has declined to comment on any speculation surrounding its future product plans.

More: Stellantis Just Sent Europe A Warning With This Chinese-Built Electric Hatch

The Leapmotor B10 was introduced last year as a compact SUV with fully electric and range-extender powertrain options, although the latter has yet to reach the Old Continent.

Built on the LEAP3.5 platform shared with the B05 compact hatchback, it features a high-tech cabin and a full suite of driver-assistance systems that reflect the brand’s growing technical capability.

What Could It look Like?

While the scope of Opel’s redesign remains uncertain, we produced a speculative rendering that applies a few subtle styling tweaks. These include the brand’s Blitz emblem, Vizor grille, and Compass lighting signature to the front of the Chinese model, while the rest of the bodywork stays untouched

In terms of size, the B10 measures 4,515 mm (177.8 inches) long, which makes it 130 mm (5.1 inches) longer than the Opel Frontera and 135 mm (5.3 inches) shorter than the Grandland, so it slots between the two. Rivals in Europe include the VW ID.4, Skoda Elroq, and BYD Atto 3, among others.

The Leapmotor B10 is already available in Europe, but it is currently being imported from China. However, Stellantis is reportedly considering producing it in Zaragoza, Spain starting from 2026. The same factory is where Opel builds two subcompacts, the Corsa hatchback and the Mokka SUV.

More: This Stellantis SUV Without An Infotainment Screen Has Everyone Confused

Local production would also help sidestep the European Union’s steep tariffs on Chinese-built vehicles, which add 20.7 percent in duties on top of the standard 10 percent import fee.

Fighting China with China

The aim, insiders suggest, is to keep pricing competitive, possibly undercutting the current €29,900 ($34,700) starting figure in Germany. For comparison, the electric Opel Frontera begins at €28,990 ($33,700) in the same market.

According to Dataforce, Leapmotor has sold 16,485 vehicles in Europe in the first nine months of 2025. These can be broken down to 11,064 units of the T03 urban EV, 5,080 units of the C10 midsize SUV, and just 313 units of the B10 compact SUV.

The automaker recently passed the one-million-vehicle production milestone and now aims for 50,000 to 60,000 exports this year, a sign that Stellantis’ Chinese partner is becoming a more significant player in global EV manufacturing.

Sources: Automobilwoche

While some Land Cruiser fans are thrilled that Toyota has added a smaller, more affordable model to the lineup with the FJ, many in America were disappointed to learn the new version won’t be sold locally.

Looking through the photos released by Toyota, we couldn’t quite put a finger on what the Land Cruiser FJ reminded us of, aside from the obvious Hilux Champ it’s based on. Then it clicked, after we came across a GM-built model from China that’s now going global.

Read: Toyota’s Baby Land Cruiser FJ Looks Retro Enough To Break Your Heart

The vehicle in question is sold in China as the Baojun Yep Plus and was developed through the GM–Wuling joint venture. It’s not a focused off-roader like the new FJ, nor is it powered by a traditional combustion engine, but rather by an electric powertrain.

Now, we’re not suggesting the FJ copied the Baojun Yep Plus, but it gives off a similar vibe, and to our eyes, it looks every bit as good, if not better, than Toyota’s baby FJ Cruiser.

From the side, the two share a similar silhouette, though the GM model is noticeably smaller at 157.3 inches (3,996 mm) long, 69.3 inches (1,760 mm) wide, and 68 inches (1,726 mm) tall, with a 100.8-inch (2,560 mm) wheelbase, compared with the Toyota’s 180.1 inches (4,575 mm) in length, 73 inches (1,855 mm) in width, and 77.2 inches (1,960 mm) in height, riding on a 101.6-inch (2,580 mm) wheelbase.

Technically, that makes it a baby version of the baby Land Cruiser FJ.

The Yep Plus has the same boxy proportions as the FJ, though its bumpers are smoother and more rounded since it’s not built for off-roading. It also forgoes the Toyota’s jagged wheel arch extensions, while the positioning of the headlights and taillights appears closely aligned.

That said, the FJ’s taillights sit quite high and jut slightly from the body, while the Baojun’s units are more neatly integrated into the rear fascia.

There’s no doubt that weaving retro cues into a new design, as GM and Wuling have done with the Yep Plus, helps it resonate with a wider audience. Toyota has taken a similar route with the FJ, giving it a retro-modern character that plenty of buyers would likely appreciate. It’s just a shame it won’t reach the United States.

Brazil Gets its own Baojun

In July, GM revealed that it would export the Yep Plus to Brazil, rebadging it as the Chevrolet Spark EUV. It will be sold as standard with a 42 kWh battery pack and a single rear-mounted electric motor with 101 hp and 133 lb-ft (180 Nm) of torque, giving it 249 miles (401 km) of range on the CLTC cycle.

While we’re not convinced it would sell in big numbers if launched in the U.S. as an affordable EV, it could find success with a small, efficient combustion engine paired with a more rugged makeover featuring wider fenders and extra plastic cladding. What do you think?

2025 Chevrolet Spark EUV

2025 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ

Skoda continues its digital concept series that reimagines past icons through a modern lens. Following reinterpretations of the Felicia Fun pickup, the Favorit hatchback, and the 110 R coupe, the automaker now revisits the 1000 MBX coupe from the 1960s, transforming it into something reminiscent of a Mazda RX-8 in form, though powered by electricity.

More: This Futuristic RWD Coupe Could Have Been Skoda’s Best Throwback Yet

The new concept was created by Skoda designers Antti Mikael Savio on the exterior and David Stingl on the interior. Development took around three to four weeks, beginning with rough sketches on scraps of paper and concluding with a complete 3D digital model.

What Inspired the Look?

The project draws inspiration from the classic 1000 MBX, which was introduced in 1966 as the two-door coupe version of the 1000 MB sedan. Skoda produced a total of 2,517 units, making it a rare sight today.

The modern interpretation keeps a similar bodystyle but adds an extra pair of rear-hinged doors for easier access to the 2+2 cabin, giving the whole design a hint of the now-discontinued Mazda RX-8.

As with earlier concepts in the series, Skoda avoided leaning into retro pastiche. Even so, it nods to the original through carefully chosen details that align with the brand’s Modern Solid design philosophy.

The LED front lighting signature echoes the chrome grille of the classic, while the headlights rise slightly from the hood in a familiar gesture. The C-pillar shape and tail contours also recall the past. A central fin topped with a rearview camera replaces the traditional rear window, lending a futuristic twist.

Antti Savio, who was responsible for the exterior design, explained: “Our concept is sportier overall, yet, still has a friendly look. Modern sports cars often appear overly aggressive, while those from the ’60s and ’70s carried a certain elegance, even endearing charm – and that’s what I wanted to preserve.”

Inside the Cabin

The interior has a 2+2 layout with a front bench seat made possible by the flat floor of the EV architecture, and two individual tip-up seats at the back. The latter can easily move out of the way, creating an open space that can be used to transport a bicycle or other sports equipment.

At the front, a transparent oval-shaped dashboard replaces the traditional setup, and there’s no central console, a design choice inspired by classic interiors.

Interior designer David Stingl said, “This car should encourage its crew to go exploring without a moment of hesitation. It’s not meant to be just a fun weekend coupé or a second car in the family, but a vehicle with genuine everyday usability.”

Electric Vision

Skoda didn’t get into specifics about the fully electric powertrain of the concept, though the designers imagined it with adaptive air suspension capable of adjusting ride height for either a low, sporty stance or greater clearance on rougher ground.

While Skoda fans might wish for a production version of this compact coupe, Skoda has no such plans. The “Icons Get a Makeover” concepts are designed as creative tributes, celebrating the brand’s history while allowing its designers the freedom to explore new ideas without the limits of production requirements.

Skoda