School districts feel the pinch at the fuel pump, await news on Clean School Bus Program funding, and deal with extreme weather events threatening operations. Plus, the TSD Conference presents advice on leveraging AI as a tool.

Prosper Independent School District in Texas is hosting the hands-on evacuation training as well as The Roadeo Competition at the TSD Conference in a few weeks. Director of Transportation Teri Mapengo talks operational teamwork to better serve student with special needs, as well as meeting school bus fueling and staffing challenges.

Read more about special needs.

This episode is brought to you by Transfinder.

 

Message from School Radio.

 

Stream, subscribe and download the School Transportation Nation podcast on Apple Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Spotify and YouTube.

The post (STN Podcast E328) This, That & the Other: Fuel Frustration, AI As a Tool, Texas Training Partnership appeared first on School Transportation News.

Analysis on safety conversations revived by a fatal Florida crash that killed a student and motorist, School Bus Safety Month, and discussion at the recent National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) Conference & Trade Show.

Consultant Sue Shutrump is a retired occupational and physical therapy supervisor for Trumbull County ESC in Ohio, co-chair of NAPT’s Special Needs Advisory Committee, and member of the Transporting Students with Disabilities and Special Needs (TSD) Conference Tenured Faculty. She discusses her eventful career including receipt of the NAPT Distinguished Service Award, plus nuances of student safety and the importance of federal guidelines.

Read more about special needs and safety.

This episode is brought to you by Transfinder.

 

Message from School Radio.

 

Stream, subscribe and download the School Transportation Nation podcast on Apple Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Spotify and YouTube.

The post (STN Podcast E327) Child-Centered Decision Making: Decades of Special Needs Transportation Focus appeared first on School Transportation News.

Nobody likes catching a fever, but that’s exactly the feeling DS Automobiles hopes to achieve with its new concept, albeit a positive fever. Dubbed the DS F3VER and presented at the Paris Motor Show, it provides a look into the company’s future and its “uncompromising vision of mobility.”

The DS F3VER is a bold hatchback that looks very different to any of DS’s current production models. The front-end is based around what the brand describes as a totem; a central element with a darker blue finish than the rest of the front that houses an illuminated DS badge. Wild Y-shaped headlights and LED daytime running lights also scream for attention, as does the silver element at the base of the bumper.

Read: DS Redesigns Their Best-Seller And Gives It A New Name

A silver ring of paint wraps around the concept’s roof, and there are even dramatic blue side windows. The entire rear end wears a darker shade of blue than the front and sides, and while combining two blues might seem odd, it actually works. Helping to bring the design together are the geometric wheels. The car also rocks a ‘totem’ section at the rear, similar to the front.

At 164.8 inches (4.19 meters) long, the DS F3VER is roughly the same length as a new Renault Clio, but it’s much wider at 72.4 inches (1.84 meters). It has a very muscular stance, which isn’t common on modern hatchbacks.

While the F3VER is a concept, DS says it’s quite practical. It rocks a 106.2-inch (2.7-meter) wheelbase and has a 14.1 cubic-foot (400-liter) trunk, so it could work well on a road trip. Of course, practicalities are rather irrelevant on a concept, but it’s nice to know the carmaker is committed to making its future models look good without adversely impacting their usability.

A Look At The Next-Gen DS 3?

According to DS, the F3VER delivers “powerful desirability, extensive ultra-customization and freedom of use suited to every moment in life.” While DS has only described the F3VER as a preview of its future, it’s possible the next-generation DS 3 will take inspiration from it, offering high levels of personalization while blending the practicality and style expected of one of the brand’s models.

Sadly, DS hasn’t shown the concept’s cabin, so we don’t know if it’s also gearing up to modernize the cabins of its future models. Nonetheless, if it can produce a car that looks as striking as this from the outside, it could win over plenty of customers, regardless of what the cabin may look like.

Leon County Schools shared how stronger Medicaid reimbursement, better ridership documentation and teamwork across departments can help districts recover the cost of transporting students with disabilities.

Karen Thomas, Medicaid coordinator at Leon County Schools in Florida, shared how her district secured a higher reimbursement rate through collaboration among transportation, finance and Medicaid staff during a Thursday webinar sponsored by Zonar.

Leon County receives about $18 per eligible ride, compared to approximately $2.50 in Florida’s larger Volusia County Schools, Thomas said.

“If you know one Medicaid program, you know one Medicaid program,” she explained, emphasizing that reimbursement rules and rates vary widely.

Thomas said Leon County pursued a district-specific rate rather than relying on the reimbursement amount established when Florida’s program began in the late 1990s. The process took three school years of coordinating information among departments before the superintendent brought everyone together.

“It was not a super simple process, but it paid off tremendously,” she said.

Finding the Funding

Tim Ammon, consultant and owner of Ammon Consulting Group, said transportation directors need to understand their state’s funding formula before identifying additional reimbursement opportunities.

“We’ve got a whole variety of expectations that are different state to state,” he explained.

A September survey conducted by Zonar and School Transportation News found that 72 percent of transportation professionals did not know how much their districts recovered annually through disability transportation funding programs. Zonar Chief Revenue Officer Rob Consoli shared during the webinar that only 47 percent of the survey respondents reported using Medicaid reimbursements, despite 58 percent knowing they are available.

“There are six sources that districts can pull from today. That includes the IDEA funds, state transportation funding, vocational rehabilitation, Medicaid reimbursement, and the McKinney-Vento [Homeless Assistance] Act funds which are not well known but are available – and the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Program,” Consoli explained. “Districts rarely tap the full stack, and funding most often goes unclaimed on Medicaid.”

Ammon said the complexity can overwhelm transportation departments already managing staff shortages and daily operations.

“It’s really hard for transportation folks to try to navigate this on their own,” he said.

His recommendation was straightforward: Find a district or state Medicaid specialist who understands the requirements.

“And honestly, my expert opinion would be, find somebody like Karen,” Ammon said.

The Paperwork Problem

Thomas illustrated the documentation burden with her own summer routine, since Leon County still records specialized transportation ridership on paper logs.

“I actually physically get in my car and drive over to the bus barn, and I pick up boxes, legal boxes,” she quipped. “We see a lot of coffee stains and shoe print marks and things like that.”

She then matches those records with students’ individualized education programs, Medicaid eligibility and documented medical aids to determine which rides qualify for reimbursement.

The Zonar-STN survey found that 48 percent of respondents similarly relied on paper ridership logs, while 13 percent did not document daily ridership at all.

Thomas stressed that accurate documentation matters even when states change their reimbursement methods.

“At the end of the day, you’re still going to need that ridership data to back up that claim,” she said.

Ammon noted that electronic ridership tracking can support multiple funding opportunities, particularly in states where transportation aid depends on student ridership.

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Related: (STN Podcast E321) The Mission: Supporting Education & Independence for Students with Special Needs
Related: School Bus Driver for Students with Special Needs Convicted of Sex Crimes
Related: Special Needs Roadeo Returns to TSD Conference with Expanded Training, Team Challenges
Related: (STN Podcast E323) Better Outcomes: Expert’s Insider Advice on Transporting Students with Disabilities

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Turning Reimbursement Into Services

Thomas said Leon County dedicates its Medicaid reimbursement revenue to student health services, including school nurses. Additional funding could allow the district to hire a licensed practical nurse or vocational nurse instead of a clinic aide. It could also free-up other district funds for transportation needs, such as child safety restraint systems.

The panel also emphasized that reimbursement requires more than recording a school bus ride. Depending on applicable rules, claims must connect Medicaid eligibility, IEP requirements, medical services or equipment, and appropriate vehicle adaptations.

Consoli presented Zonar’s Z Pass digital ridership system as a way for transportation, special education and finance departments to share records.

Ammon encouraged districts to begin by determining whether they qualify for reimbursement and identifying the information needed to support a claim.

“I think the first thing that we would want to try to fix is awareness,” he said.

Watch the webinar on demand.

The TSD Conference and Trade Show brings together transportation professionals from around the country to learn and discuss the latest in transportation for students with special needs. Register online now.

Written with the assistance of AI and a live session transcript.

The post Florida District Tackles School Transportation Funding Gaps appeared first on School Transportation News.

A 15-year-old student with autism was hospitalized for severe dehydration after reportedly spending extended periods of heat exposure on board a school bus without air conditioning, reported New York Post.

Temperatures in Chula Vista, California near San Diego reached 97 degrees during the recent heat wave.

Marisol Wojciechowski told local news reporters that her son, Gabriel, is a freshman at Hilltop High School. He released from school about 30 minutes before other students because he receives special education services. She said he was required to wait on the school bus until the other students arrived.

Wojciechowski added that her son’s autism makes it difficult for him to communicate when he is becoming overheated or feeling ill. She first noticed symptoms in early September, when Gabriel began experiencing nosebleeds, severe headaches and lightheadedness after riding the school bus.

“Right away, I would put ice pack on him on his neck and gave him water,” Wojciechowski told local news reporters.

After Gabriel repeatedly displayed the symptoms, his mother took him to an emergency room. She said medical personnel determined that he was severely dehydrated and administered intravenous fluids.

Wojciechowski later boarded the school bus herself and experienced the conditions inside. She said the bus driver told her that Gabriel could not leave the bus after he had been released into the driver’s supervision.

She said that she instructed her son to get off the bus and wait in her air-conditioned vehicle. According to Wojciechowski, the driver told her it was normal for students to remain on the bus during high temperatures.

The mother is now calling on Sweetwater Union High School District officials to implement additional precautions to protect students during periods of extreme heat.

“I want them to put the kids first,” she told local news reporters. “Leaving them on the bus is not safe, not even for five minutes during the heat.”

Written with the assistance of AI.

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Related: Legal Keynote to Examine Court Rulings Reshaping Special Needs Transportation
Related: Setting Realistic Expectations for School Bus Drivers of Students with Special Needs
Related: Finally Fall? How Texas School Districts Navigate Extreme Heat Waves
Related: Nebraska Day Care Driver Arrested Following Heat-related Death of 1 Year Old

The post California Teen Hospitalized After Reported Heat Exposure on School Bus appeared first on School Transportation News.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The National Association of Pupil Transportation announced several winners and its latest inductee to the NAPT Hall of Fame during its annual conference this weekend.

The event in Louisville, Kentucky recognized Keith Henry, a longtime student transportation leader whose career has been marked by service, mentorship and advocacy for the profession, as this year’s solo inductee into the NAPT Hall of Fame. Henry is a past president of NAPT and currently serves as president of the NAPT Foundation. He is also the executive director of the Missouri Association for Pupil Transportation.

Henry started in the student transportation industry in 1994 as director transportation for Windsor School District in Imperial, Missouri following six years of service as an aviation electrician in the U.S. Coast Guard. He moved to Mehlville School District in 1997 as director of transportation and support services and then to Independence School District as director of transportation in 2010. He joined Lee’s Summit R-7 School District as director of transportation in July 2016 and four months later began his two-year term as NAPT president. He retired from Lee’s Summit at the end of June 2021.

NAPT describes its Hall of Fame as the association’s highest individual honor, recognizing professionals whose contributions, influence and leadership have had a lasting impact on both NAPT and the school transportation industry.

“I’m not up here, I don’t think, by accident but by design. And it wasn’t not my design, it was all your design,” Henry said during his acceptance speech Oct. 4. “You all have put so much into me and that’s the why. And my why is simple. I like to help others. I like to serve others. .. I went into the Coast Guard because I wanted to help others. When I got out of the Coast Guard in 1994, I took a temporary job in a transportation department that I didn’t seem to be able to kick. Here I am.”

The 2026 NAPT Distinguished Service Award was presented to Sue Shutrump, recognizing her exemplary leadership, service and “unwavering desire to make things safer for all children on the school bus” over the past 41 years, said nominator, NAPT past-president and NAPT Foundation board member Alexandra Robinson. A retired occupational and physical therapy supervisor for Trumbull County ESC in Ohio, Shutrump is the owner of Sue Shutrump Consulting and serves as co-chair of NAPT’s Special Needs Advisory Committee alongside Robinson. She is a member of the Transporting Students with Disabilities and Special Needs Tenured Faculty and long-time supporter of those who transport students with disabilities and preschoolers.

Shutrump recounted how she first became involved in school transportation in 1991, after her supervisor at the time received a phone call from a parent who expressed concern that her son was being transported unsafely to school in his wheelchair.

“I learned that she was right and I have never stopped learning since then,” Shutrump said during her acceptance speech. “And that is thanks to this incredible transportation community, full of people who are so willing to share their expertise in support of getting kids to school safer.”

Meanwhile, Jeff Hall, a school bus driver for Dickson County Schools in Tennessee, was posthumously awarded the NAPT Heroism Award sponsored by Blue Bird, for his selfless and decisive actions while evacuating students during a December 2025 school bus fire emergency, despite only being a school bus driver for four months. He died unexpectedly Feb. 10. Melissa Garton, director of transportation for Dickson County Schools, accepted the award on Hall’s behalf Sunday.

The School Bus Driver Training & Safety Award, sponsored by IC Bus, was presented to Dennis Murphy, training and safety officer for Greenville County Schools in South Carolina. Murphy was recognized for his commitment to school bus driver training and for helping advance student transportation safety. He was ill and unable to attend NAPT, so his colleague Shane Mitchell accepted the award on his behalf. IC Bus created the award to recognize school districts, companies and transportation professionals with exemplary driver-training programs and includes a $500 grant to further enhance driver training within the recipient’s operation.

The Continuing Education Award, sponsored by Thomas Built Buses, was presented to Angela Renz, the Northeast and Southeast Quadrant Manager for Metro Nashville Public Schools in Tennessee. The award recognizes Renz’s commitment to continued learning and to advancing the student transportation profession through education.

The NAPT Special Needs Transportation Award, sponsored by Q’Straint/Sure-Lok, was presented to Pamela Kelley, transportation administrative assistant at Spartanburg School District Six in South Carolina. Kelley was honored for her dedication to providing safe, compassionate and exceptional transportation for students with disabilities and special needs.

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Related: Shutrump Humbled By Grandolfo Special Needs Award at STN EXPO
Related: Update: NHTSA Seeks Fix to Child Safety Restraint Standard Affecting School Buses
Related: NAPT Opens Nominations for 2026 Board Elections in Three Regions

The post Henry, Shutrump Among NAPT Honorees at 2026 Annual Conference appeared first on School Transportation News.

The Mazda BT-50 might not be as popular as its Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger rivals, but it remains an important model for the Japanese automaker. The increased competition in the midsize pickup segment has prompted Mazda to consider a new generation, set to arrive over the next couple of years.

The third generation of the Mazda BT-50 was introduced in 2020, with a mid-lifecycle update following in late 2024. The model is based on the ladder-frame underpinnings of the Isuzu D-Max, with Mazda-specific styling inside-out and is currently offered with non-electrified turbodiesel powertrain options.

More: Mazda Pickup Gets Its Thunder Back, As A New Boss Steps In

Our colleagues at CarsGuide spoke to Vinesh Bhindi, Mazda Australia’s managing director, who confirmed that a new generation of the BT-50 is under development. The high-ranking official didn’t get into details about the specifications, but confirmed it will likely hit the road around 2028.

The same publication spoke to Eiji Kimoto, Mazda’s chief designer, who was responsible for the styling of the current BT-50. When asked about the upcoming pickup, Kimoto said: “I am not allowed to speak much about the future product, but I can tell you, please look forward to it”.

More: Bare-Bones Mazda BT-50 Grows Stronger And More Capable

Since Mazda doesn’t have enough R&D resources to develop a pickup on its own, the next BT-50 will likely be the result of a partnership. After all, the first two generations were paired with the Ford Ranger, while the third one migrated to the Isuzu platform.

Collaborative Effort

Illustrations: Thanos Pappas / CarScoops

Mazda could continue the partnership with Isuzu, developing the new model alongside the new generation of the D-Max. Another option would be to broaden its collaboration with Chinese automaker Changan, following the 6e sedan and CX-6e SUV projects.

More: Mazda Poised To Build More Chinese-Based EVs

Changan already offers a pickup in the form of the Hunter K50 with a revolutionary range-extender powertrain. However, this one is based on the ladder-frame chassis of the diesel-powered Changan Hunter which has already spawned several siblings from Stellantis brands in South America including the Peugeot Landtrek, the Fiat Titano, the Ram 1200, and Ram Dakota.

Sharp Looks And Upmarket Interior

Illustrations: Thanos Pappas / CarScoops

In any case, the next Mazda BT-50 is expected to adopt the brand’s updated styling language with sharp LEDs and sculpted details. In our speculative rendering we used the proportions of the Isuzu D-Max as a base, infusing elements from the Mazda CX-6e alongside wide fender extensions and a rear canopy.

We also expect Mazda to give its truck a more premium interior, in line with the upmarket move of its entire lineup. This could help the next BT-50 stand out in a crowded segment, targeting a specific kind of buyer. As with most midsize pickups in Australia, the model could continue offering rugged trims like the Thunder alongside a selection of optional accessories for off-road enthusiasts.

What About The Powertrain?

Back in 2025, the Mazda Australia boss said there won’t be a fully electric variant of the BT-50 in the foreseeable future, despite the availability of the closely-related Isuzu D-Max EV. He also didn’t perceive PHEV pickups as a threat, adding that diesel powertrains will probably stick around. Still, the local Managing Director admitted they will let the market pinpoint if there’s demand for electrified trucks and consider the options.

Reading between the lines, Mazda could offer some sort of electrified powertrain options for the next BT-50. If it sticks to the partnership with Isuzu they will likely use a mild-hybrid diesel, while the Changan route would probably result in a range-extender option. That would allow the pickup to fulfil market demand while complying with tightening emission regulations and potentially expanding its scope to markets outside Australia.

The Toyota Alphard and Vellfire are the best selling full-size minivans in the Japanese market, but their popularity expands to other regions. Pakistani automaker Nora EV has unveiled a new zero-emission model with Toyota-inspired styling and a subcompact footprint.

The Nora EV Metro might not bear the Toyota emblem, but it incorporates a mixture of Alphard and Vellfire styling cues. At the front, the headlights might be simpler, but the massive grille and vertical intakes with chrome accents send strong Toyota vibes.

More: Before Lexus Turns The LS Into A Minivan, They Turned A Minivan Into A Sedan

The same applies to the surfacing on the profile and the rear end with a vertical tailgate, a roof spoiler, and triangular taillights. However, unlike the Alphard and Vellfire which rely on power-sliding side doors, the Metro uses conventional hinged doors for rear-seat access.

The Nora EV Metro (left) compared to the Toyota Alphard (right).

Despite the similarities with the Japanese full-size minivans, Metro’s proportions are far more modest. The vehicle measures 3,900 mm (153.5 inches) long, which makes it shorter than European subcompact hatchbacks. It also rides on 14-inch alloy wheels that would be more suitable for a kei car.

More: Toyota’s Smallest Minivan Gains Smarter Tech, Starts From $11,500

Inside, the Metro tries hard to hide its budget-friendly nature. The five-seater cabin adopts styling cues and color combinations inspired by premium vehicles. The dashboard might look like a Mercedes Hyperscreen, but is actually a big piece of plastic with a modest infotainment display in the center. Equipment includes Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, push-button start, AC, power windows, and a reverse camera.

Surprises continue under the skin. The underlying chassis originates from China, but the company claims it has been re-engineered to better suit the road conditions of South Asia and improve ergonomics for taller passengers.

Nora EV Metro

Power comes from a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 4,000 Watts, which translates to a mere 5 hp (4 kW). The company offers various options for the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack with capacities of 9 kWh, 15 kWh, and 23.1 kWh. The larger battery promises a driving range between 250-300 km (155-186 miles).

More: Think You Know The Suzuki Alto? There Are Five Different Versions On Sale Right Now

For those with range anxiety issues who don’t like to wait for charging, Nora EV plans to roll out a network of battery swapping stations in Pakistan. More importantly, the Metro will be optionally available with a range-extender setup featuring a 3 lt (0.8 gallon) gasoline tank and a small generator which is said to add an extra 150-180 km (93-112 miles) of range.

Other Models And Pricing

Nora EV was founded in 2025 by Nousheen Azhar and Ali Raza. Unlike other firms that assemble imported knockdown kits, the Pakistani company is establishing local manufacturing for bodywork stampings, lighting assemblies etc.

More: Someone Paid $3K For This Fake Bentley EV That Charges With Gas

Besides the Toyota minivan impersonator, the automaker also offers the Nora E30 small electric SUV copying the design of the previous-gen Range Rover, and the Nora Neo urban hatchback. The only one currently on sale is the baby Range Rover, priced from 1,889,000 Pakistani Rupee ($6,800) before GST. The brand has promised that the upcoming Metro will launch soon with a starting price under 3,000,000 Pakistani Rupee ($10,800).

H/T to Creative Trend

Nora E30

A Polk County school bus driver and attendant were arrested after onboard video allegedly showed them repeatedly spraying a 15-year-old student with disabilities with disinfectant cleaner to “teach him a lesson.”

According to arrest affidavits provided to School Transportation News, Jeffrey Larson, 65, and William “Cody” Roberts, 32, were each charged with one count of aggravated child abuse, a first-degree felony. Both were taken to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Processing Center without incident.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office began investigating Sept. 22. Maggie Reynolds, the Karen M. Siegel Academy principal, noticed an increase in student behavior referrals involving bus No. 1611 and requested video footage from the Polk County School Board, the affidavits state.

The school bus transported three students and was staffed by Larson and Roberts. Authorities described the 15-year-old student, who was not identified at this writing, as having an intellectual disability, functioning at a toddler-level mental capacity, and being unable to speak for himself.

Affidavit Provides Scope of Child Abuse Allegations

Video from Aug. 31 allegedly showed Larson spraying liquid directly in front of the student before spraying his face, torso and legs. A second clip allegedly showed Larson leave the driver’s seat, approach the student, and spray his face and the front of his body while saying, “Stop spitting.” The student then rubbed his face after Larson walked away, according to the affidavit.

During a second incident recorded on Sept. 2, Roberts allegedly looked toward an onboard camera, pulled a spray bottle from beside his body, and sprayed a stream of liquid onto the student’s back while the teenager was secured in his seat.

Investigators said they also heard someone say, “I’ll put a gag in your mouth if you don’t knock it off,” and “You’re gonna regret this.” Authorities could not determine who made the statements.

Roberts told investigators his first day working as the attendant on bus No. 1611 was Aug. 11. He admitted spraying the student in the face with a disinfectant cleaner “no more than five times” and said it was done to “teach him a lesson,” according to the affidavit.

The affidavit alleges that Roberts said he witnessed Larson spray the student in the face twice for the same reason. He acknowledged that their actions were wrong because the disinfectant was an irritant that could adversely affect the student’s health and because the student did not understand their commands due to his disability and could not speak for himself.

Larson told investigators there were no spray bottles containing water aboard the bus but that it carried three bottles containing different cleaning products. He then invoked his right to an attorney.

Deputies obtained a search warrant and recovered a bottle labeled “Morning Fresh, Neutral Disinfectant Cleaner.” Its warning label said the product should be kept away from children and could cause eye and skin irritation.

Polk County Public Schools told School Transportation News that Larson and Roberts also served Boswell Elementary and Tenoroc High School.

“PCPS does not tolerate this kind of behavior from our employees, and these two individuals will no longer have any involvement with our district,” the district stated. “We are cooperating fully with law enforcement.”

The district did not clarify whether the men were terminated or resigned. The affidavits did not state whether the student received medical treatment or whether investigators had identified other alleged victims.

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Related: New York School Bus Aide Arrested for Allegedly Abusing Children
Related:Alabama School Bus Driver Arrested for Allegedly Assaulting Student with Special Needs
Related: Michigan Student with Special Needs Forgotten, Left on School Bus
Related: Florida School Bus Aide Arrested on Child Abuse Charge

The post Florida School Bus Driver, Attendant Accused of Spraying Student with Disinfectant appeared first on School Transportation News.

The October issue explores how school transportation leaders are using technology, training and strong leadership to improve safety and operations. Learn how collision-avoidance systems and video technology are helping prevent crashes. Hear from this year’s Top Transportation Team award winners at STN EXPO West on the role of communication and leadership. Discover how districts are navigating CDL testing and certification bottlenecks. Plus, get insights into the future of student transportation following changes at the U.S. Department of Education. Finally, preview what’s ahead at the Transporting Students With Disabilities & Special Needs Conference next month in Frisco, Texas.

Cover Story

Training for a Safer Start
School districts are finding ways to navigate CDL testing and certification bottlenecks to keep qualified drivers behind the wheel.

Features

Avoiding Collisions
Collision-avoidance systems and video camera technology are giving school transportation teams new tools to identify hazards and improve safety, while districts weigh the costs of adopting these technologies.

Leadership Strategies
Communication and strong leadership continue to play a key role in effective transportation operations, as this year’s Top Transportation Team award winners share the strategies behind their success.

Gearing Up for TSD Conference
Get a preview of the sessions, networking opportunities and other events planned for the Transporting Students With Disabilities & Special Needs Conference in Frisco, Texas.

Special Reports

NSTA Contractor of the Year Shares Success Secrets
B.R. Williams of New Jersey credits its employees and people-focused approach for helping the company earn NSTA Contractor of the Year honors.

What Happens Now?
Experts examine the operational and funding considerations school districts need to understand as the U.S. Department of Education undergoes major restructuring.

Conversations

Ad Index

Editor’s Take by Ryan Gray
The Human Element of Collision Avoidance

Publisher’s Corner by Tony Corpin
Learn. Network. Grow. Repeat.

Thought Leader by Linda Bluth
What to Do When a Supervisor Directs You to Do Something You Know Is Wrong?

The post October 2026 appeared first on School Transportation News.

BMW has just launched the G50 generation of the 3-Series, serving as the ICE-powered equivalent of the NA0 i3. While the lineup is currently limited to sedans, the automaker has confirmed that Touring variants are under development, inspiring digital artist Theophilus Chin to create realistic illustrations.

The fresh renderings depict the upcoming wagon in the sporty M350 xDrive trim. This is the flagship version of the G50 3-Series until a new M3 arrives closer to the end of the decade. Naturally, the front end is shared with the sedan, as with the sheet metal up to the B-pillars. The Touring gets a longer roof, redesigned greenhouse and quarter panels, and a proper tailgate providing access to a larger boot.

More: The BMW M3 Is Going Electric, But Not Every M3

Despite the big changes at the back, the wagon could retain the slim LED taillights and rear bumper of the sedan. The M350 features quad tailpipes and sportier black trim, looking like an M3 minus the wide fenders. Theottle has also added a black spoiler and matching roof rails, to complete the wagon transformation.

BMW 3-Series Touring Renderings by Theottle

Despite adopting the latest Neue Klasse design and technology, the G50 generation of the 3-Series rides on an upgraded version of the CLAR underpinnings, also used by its G20 predecessor.

More: 2027 BMW X5 Drops Door Handles For Wings, Adds A 435-Mile Electric iX5

The pictured M350 is fitted with a mild-hybrid turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine producing 437 hp (326 kW / 443 PS). This allows the AWD-capable M350 xDrive sedan to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.1 seconds, meaning that the slightly heavier wagon would probably need 4.2 seconds.

Interestingly, the long-roof variant won’t be getting a diesel powertrain option, as BMW discontinued those from the 3-Series lineup.

The big question is whether BMW will bring the 3-Series Touring in North America, or if we’ll be stuck with the sedan. Hopefully, the growing interest for wagons among BMW fans might convince them to import both – at least in select trims.

What About The i3 Touring?

BMW i3 Touring Renderings by Theottle

The 3-Series Touring won’t be the only compact wagon in the Bavarian lineup. The automaker is also working on a fully electric i3 Touring that will be sold in parallel with the combustion model. Camouflaged prototypes have been spotted at the Nurburging, while Theottle has created speculative renderings based on the sedan.

Despite adopting the same design language, the i3 has different proportions from the 3-Series, due to the packaging of the EV-dedicated Neue Klasse architecture.

More: BMW’s New Wagon Is The Cure For Everyone Bored By Electric SUVs

In terms of performance, the i3 50 xDrive has dual electric motors producing 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) which is 25 hp (19 kW / 26 PS) more than the ICE-powered M350i xDrive. Furthermore, the larger108.7 kWh battery pack allows up to 912 km (567 miles) of WLTP range for the sedan which should be similar for the upcoming wagon.

Another difference between the two models is the production location. The i3 is manufactured in Munich, while the 3-Series is built in Dingolfing. This currently stands for the sedans, but the wagons will also come out of the same facilities.

BMW

Stellantis has shared more teasers and information about the upcoming Opel Sports Tourer eXperimental (STX) Concept ahead of its premiere at the Paris Motor Show on October 12. The model communicates the brand’s vision for the future of wagons, most likely previewing the next generation of the Opel Astra.

The new teasers are more revealing than the first one, giving us a good idea of what to expect. Overall, the STX Concept is not your typical wagon, as it adopts a sporty stance with futuristic details.

More: This Stellantis Brand Thinks A Wagon Might Make More Sense Than A Hatchback

The front end features an evolution of the Opel Vizor grille, which is now body colored with an LED pattern and an illuminated Opel Blitz emblem. This is joined by the vertical LEDs forming the Opel Compass, and a sculpted bumper with horizontal cooling intakes.

Still, the coolest detail is the view of the profile, with the wide fenders on the rear axle making it look more like a performance model than a family-focused offering.

Opel

Opel said that aerodynamic efficiency played a crucial role in the development of the concept. One example is the design of the three-section alloy wheels, which is said to reduce consumption while offering improved “directional stability and driving pleasure at high speeds on the German Autobahn”.

More: Opel Astra GSE Line Brings OPC-Like Power, But Don’t Call It A Hot Hatch

In a similar context, an earlier press release confirmed that the concept features an “active aerodynamic system that continuously adapts to the driving situation, using moving elements at the rear to optimize airflow, reduce drag and improve stability.”

Sister brand Vauxhall – which also announced a redesigned Griffin logo – has shared an additional image of the STX Concept taken from above. This reveals a pair of vents that create a V shape on the hood and form front spoiler, similar in theory to the fully electric Dodge Charger Daytona. The windshield extends on the hood, with the “TECHHUE” lettering on its base hinting at a new technology.

Vauxhall

Stellantis didn’t reveal the powertrain type of the STX Concept, but judging from their product portfolio it will be either fully electric or hybrid.

More: Opel’s Cheapest New Car Is Now A Family SUV With Three Pedals And Steelies

Opel doesn’t openly admit it, but the sporty wagon is expected to evolve into the next generation of the Astra, which is rumored to abandon the traditional hatchback bodystyle. The compact model has been confirmed to be renewed before 2030 alongside the smaller Corsa. Both will ride on the multi-energy STLA One architecture with an EV-first strategy. However, we wouldn’t be surprised if they eventually adopt range-extender tech from Leapmotor.

A potential rival of the future estate from Opel is the next generation of the Skoda Octavia. This one was previewed by the Vision O concept and is expected to hit the road in 2028 with a wagon bodystyle and a electric/range-extender powertrains.

The student transportation industry faces questions after a 7-year-old student rider in a wheelchair died on her bus. Additionally, rising fuel costs alongside declining enrollment complicate matters.

Gabrielle Marie Kelley aka “Gabie the Author,” former school bus dispatcher and current office manager for Irving Independent School District in Texas, takes us behind the scenes of the web series she has been sharing with STN readers titled “Calvin & Christina” following the adventures of Calvin, an anxious but dutiful bus driver, and his sentient and safety-conscious school bus named Christina.

Read more about safety.

This episode is brought to you by Transfinder.

 

 

Stream, subscribe and download the School Transportation Nation podcast on Apple Podcasts, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Spotify and YouTube.

The post (STN Podcast E325) Calvin & Christina: Safety-Conscious Student Transportation appeared first on School Transportation News.

Suzuki has announced its roadmap for the next decade, focusing on a multi-pathway approach, reduced development times, and increased modularity. The company is working on a new turbo gasoline engine, a mild-hybrid system, and a modular series hybrid family of powertrains which is set to include its first-ever light range extender setup.

According to Suzuki, the new e-Axle 3-in-1 system used in the fully electric e Sky kei car, will evolve into a modular 6-in-1 unit with the exact same dimensions. This will be shared across BEVs and HEVs, under the “Right x Light Mobile Tech” philosophy, and will also be available in a 10% larger version for subcompact, compact, and midsize models.

More: Suzuki’s New Electric Kei Car Squeezes 193 Miles From A Really Tiny Battery

Urban EVs such as the e Sky will get a 94 hp (70 kW / 95 PS) front electric motor paired with a 13 hp (10 kW / 14 PS) rear motor in 4WD trims.

Larger models will feature a more potent 174 hp (130 kW / 177 PS) primary e-Axle and an optional 40 hp (30 kW / 41 PS) e-4WD unit at the back. Suzuki wants its electric motors to be free of Heavy Rare Earths, improving their recyclability.

Hybrids And Light REEVs

Smaller models will benefit from a new mild-hybrid system, targeting to cut down carbon emissions by 15% which translates to 150 kg (331 lbs) less CO2 for every 10,000 km (6,214 miles). The more advanced Series HEV powertrain targets a 29% reduction, doubling the CO2 savings to 300 kg (661 lbs) per 10,000 km (6,214 miles).

More: Think You Know The Suzuki Alto? There Are Five Different Versions On Sale Right Now

More importantly, in the new Series HEV powertrain which sounds like a successor to the current Strong Hybrid unit, the ICE will be working as a generator. This allows engineers to evolve it further into a “REEV Light” setup by adding plug-in capability and “right-sizing” the battery pack. Suzuki said that its range-extender won’t require an oversize battery, and will combat range anxiety compared to BEVs.

As reported by Autocar India, the smallest Suzuki models to get the upcoming Series HEV system are expected to be the Baleno hatchback and the Fronx SUV. This means that the S-Cross, Vitara, Grand Vitara, and Victoris, are potential candidates.

New Turbo ICE

Despite the focus on modular electrified powertrains, the Japanese automaker remains loyal to combustion power. A new Direct Injection Turbocharged gasoline engine is being developed for markets like India, likely to be joined by a CNG variant.

More: Suzuki’s Decade-Old $6,500 Hatch Loses A Cylinder To Chase Mileage

The long term goal of Suzuki engineers is to improve ICE thermal efficiency from the 40% of the current 1.2-liter Z12E three-cylinder engine to an ambitious 50% on future powertrains. This can be achieved by high-EGR lean combustion, waste-heat recovery, low-viscosity lubricants, nano-carbon materials, and an improved Miller-cycle operation.

Lighter Is Better

Suzuki is known for producing lightweight cars, and will continue to do so in the future, despite the fact that stricter safety and emission regulations for 2030 and beyond are expected to add 80 kg (176 lbs) to each vehicle. In order to offset these mandatory gains, the automaker plans to reduce weight by 100-120 kg (220-265 lbs) per vehicle across its entire lineup, without compromising safety.

More: Suzuki’s Old Swift Sport Made 138 HP. The New One Makes A Splitter

Engineers went to great lengths for the new “S Light” weight-reduction initiative. Examples include the use of M8 bolts with smaller heads that could save 1 gram per unit across over 2,000 fasteners per car, and utilizing 1,470 MPa ultra-high-tensile steel for crash-critical zones.

The strategy briefing also included the “SDV Lite” term for a simplified Software-Defined Vehicle architecture. As for safety, the company wants to find ways to route heavy masses away from the occupants in the event of a crash, and standardize ADAS across its future lineup. Starting from 2031, a new Central Zone ECU will slash electronic costs by 30% and module weight by 15%.

Faster Development To Fight The Chinese

Another important element of the future roadmap is development times. Suzuki wants to halve them to 24 months by 2030, matching the fast-paced cycles of Chinese automakers. The plan includes boosting development efficiency by 30% and production efficiency by 50% at the Manesar plant in India, by using digital tools and modular components.

Finally, the company has announced its goal of increasing its annual manufacturing capacity in India to 4 million units by 2030.

Suzuki

Stellantis has introduced two new entry-level trims for the Citroen Berlingo and Opel Combo twins in Europe, making them more accessible and more practical. The base models benefit from a redesigned interior which transforms into a mobile office, and will be available with gasoline, diesel, mild-hybrid, and fully electric powertrains.

From the outside, the Citroen Berlingo Van First and the Opel Combo Start have slightly different faces compared to the rest of the lineup. The lower bumper appears to be carried over but the upper portion sheds the body-colored finish for unpainted plastic and gains a simplified design for the grille. The rest of the bodywork remains unchanged.

More: Opel’s Cheapest New Car Is Now A Family SUV With Three Pedals And Steelies

Note that the Berlingo Van has different headlights compared to the Berlingo which is better aligned with Citroen’s passenger car and SUV lineup.

More Practicality Inside The Cabin

More substantial changes take place inside the cabin, making us wonder why Opel and Citroen didn’t apply this treatment to the entire lineup of the Combo and Berlingo vans. The dashboard and door panels have been redesigned with the goal of improving “robustness” and “ergonomic handling” for business owners and fleet operators using the LCVs for delivery services and on construction sites.

Highlights include the extra shelfs on the dash, the new drawer under the driver’s seat, and the standard FlexiSeat for the front passenger. The latter can be folded upwards, creating extra space for packages, tool boxes or other equipment and increasing the van’s total load volume by 0.5 cubic meters (17.7 cubic feet).

More: This Smart Kit Turns Your Stellantis Van Into A Camper On The Go

More importantly, the FlexiSeat can be optionally combined with the ModuTable. This costs €300 ($350) and offers a surface that can be used as an extra shelf with cupholders or as a mobile desk for your laptop. When not in use, the ModuTable can be stored behind the cabin wall in the cargo area. Still, Citroen said that professionals drive alone for about 80% of the time so it will likely be used quite often.

Finally, the FlexCargo/Moduwork configuration adds a third seat at the front which turns into a load-through when transporting longer items.

Citroen Berlingo Van First

The compact vans remain available in two body lengths, delivering a load volume between 3.3-4.4 cubic meters (116.5-155.4 cubic feet). The maximum payload capacity is unchanged at 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs).

Multiple Powertrain Options

As with the rest of the lineup, the entry-level vans offer the option between gasoline, diesel and fully electric powertrains, with a mild-hybrid variant set to join the lineup in 2027.

More: Stellantis Turns ICE FWD Vans Into 4x4s With Rear Electric Motor Conversion

The turbo 1.2-liter engine is good for 109 hp (81 kW / 110 PS), while the 1.5-liter turbodiesel produces 101 hp (75 kW / 102 PS) or 129 hp (96 kW / 131 PS). All ICE variants are exclusively offered with a six-speed manual gearbox, although the upcoming mild hybrid will get a dual-clutch automatic. Finally, the EV has a single electric motor generating 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), and a 42 kWh battery offering up to 270 km (168 miles) of WLTP range.

Pricing

The base Opel Combo Start with the gasoline engine is priced from €22,400 ($26,000) before VAT in Germany, lowering the entry point in the compact van’s lineup by €1,000 ($1,200). The diesel starts from €23,200 ($26,900) and the electric from €28,500 ($33,100).

More: This New Fiat Might Be Stellantis’ Most Halfhearted Reboot Yet

Citroen has yet to announce pricing for the Berlingo Van First, but we expect similar figures with its Opel twin. It will be interesting to see whether the same treatment will be applied to the nearly identical Peugeot Partner, Fiat Doblo, and Toyota ProAce City.

Opel Combo Start

The Corolla is one of Toyota’s best-selling vehicles, as US dealers moved 131,403 units in the first six months of the year. That was a 9.5% increase, which is a tad surprising as the current model is nearly a decade old.

However, a redesigned car is on the horizon, and it was apparently teased over the summer. The single image suggested the upcoming model will echo the Corolla concept, introduced at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show.

More: Next Corolla May Have Slipped Out In A Toyota Doc, And It Mirrors The Concept

Fast forward to today, and Car & Driver is reporting the traditional sedan could give way to a new liftback body style. This could effectively combine today’s sedan and hatchback into one vehicle.

While that remains to be seen, Toyota’s CEO has made it his mission to reduce the number of variants the company offers as part of an effort to increase profitability. This begs the question of whether the automaker really needs both Corolla variants, especially when they offer a Corolla Cross.

Additional details are murky, but the publication expects the car to ride on an updated version of the current TNGA-C platform. They also suggest the model could be offered with up to four different powertrains.

Starting with the hybrid, it’s expected to use a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The powertrain will reportedly have a combined output of around 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), which is roughly the same as today’s model.

While that’s a bit of a bummer, fuel efficiency could climb by 10 to 20%. Furthermore, like today’s Corolla Hybrid, there could be an optional all-wheel-drive system.

Buyers looking for more efficiency will reportedly be able to opt for a plug-in hybrid variant. It will presumably have a larger battery pack as well as a beefier electric motor.

A fully electric variant is also expected, and it could offer an optional dual-motor all-wheel drive system. Details are hazy, but the magazine expects the EV will offer at least 250 miles (402 km) of range.

That brings us to the gas-powered variants. The ‘regular’ model could have a turbocharged 1.5- or 2.0-liter engine, while the GR Corolla is expected to get a 2.0-liter turbo packing up to 395 hp (295 kW / 400 PS).

Land Rover is working on a smaller version of its massively popular Defender, a compact SUV that could be called Defender Sport. But a smaller Defender means a smaller trunk, and it looks like Land Rover has come up with a new solution to expand storage options.

New spy shots taken close to JLR’s Nurburgring base show the baby Defender with a strange-looking rectangular box bolted to the outside of the side-hinged rear door. It’s the wrong shape to be hiding a conventional spare wheel, something we saw on a different prototype earlier this month. And the fact that’s not covered in camouflage suggests Land Rover wants us to notice it and ask questions.

Related: Land Rover Defender Reports For Duty As JLR Bids For UK and NATO Defense Contracts

We’re sure that the box we can see in these pics is only there to hide what’s underneath, and won’t actually be available on the Defender Sport when it goes on sale next year. But if that’s the case, what is underneath? One possibility is that there’s a dedicated box for a charging cable, like the Design box Mercedes offers for its slow-selling electric G-Class (below).

Cable storage is a bit of a problem on most EVs, especially ones without a frunk, and particularly if you carry a lot of other kit around in your trunk. The Mercedes Design box solves this problem, allowing you to easily access the cable from a box on the rear door that looks like a mini spare wheel, so fits with the rugged SUV design aesthetic.

But it’s possible Land Rover might choose a different look for its box, maybe one that replicates the look of the side panel boxes on the big Defender. And on cars without the rear-mounted spare wheel, which is heavy and saps range on an EV, Land Rover could potentially use that same box for a tire repair kit to at least continue the wheel theme.

Hybrid And Electric

Not all Defenders will even need a charging cable box, because although the EMA platform the baby Defender shares with the new Range Rover GT coupe was designed originally for EVs and features 800-volt electrics for speedy charging, it has since been modified to accept hybrid power. But unlike some premium SUV brands, this one won’t offer plug-in powertrains, focusing instead on conventional full hybrid tech.

That shift from electric to petrol-electric was essential for the SUV to succeed in the US, which is likely to be its biggest market. It’s a market where EV sales have sunk like a stone, but hybrid demand is on the rise. In Europe, on the other hand, where electric sales are hitting new heights, and one in every four new cars is electric, the EV version will be extremely popular.

But the Defender Sport won’t have the market all to itself. Because Mercedes is working on a shrunken G-Class in the same mould as Land Rover’s compact Defender. Like the baby Defender, the pocket G will be offered with both hybrid and electric powertrains. This time next year could have a real boxing match on our hands.

Baldauf

Alfa Romeo is gearing up for the debut of a mysterious concept at the Paris Motor Show next month, but before that happens they have a new special series in store. The Biscione brand has introduced Edizione Luna Rossa editions for its entire lineup, including the Junior, Tonale, Giulia and Stelvio.

Luna Rossa is an Italian yacht-racing team competing at the America’s Cup. Its collaboration with Alfa Romeo was inaugurated in June 2025, followed by the debut of the ultra-exclusive Giulia Quadrifoglio Luna Rossa in January 2026. While the first model was only produced in 10 units with custom colors and a unique aero package, the Edizione Luna Rossa models are available for everyone, serving as the flagships of their respective lineups.

More: Take A Ride With Me To Alfa’s Homeland In Its Smallest SUV, Sins And All

The special editions feature boat-inspired colors, custom touches inside-out, and a dedicated Alfa Romeo emblem. However, not every model is the same, with the Junior and the Tonale getting a different treatment than the stealthier and more exclusive Giulia and Stelvio.

Alfa Romeo Junior Edizione Luna Rossa

Starting with the subcompact and compact SUVs, the Junior and the Tonale Edizione Luna Rossa feature a gray shade with Gloss Black accents and red stripes on the profile, although buyers can also choose black or white for the main color of the body.

Review: The Junior Is Everything Alfa Romeo Needed And Nothing Alfisti Wanted

The wheels measure 18 inches on the Junior and 20 inches on the Tonale, both featuring a gloss black diamond cut finish and three-spoke designs. Besides the larger wheels, the Tonale also gets Brembo brakes with red brake calipers.

Alfa Romeo Tonale Edizione Luna Rossa

Inside, we find black and gray upholstery, with 3D knit technology on the premium fabric, red stripes featuring Luna Rossa lettering, and red Alfa Romeo emblems. The SUVs also feature aluminum sports pedals and kick plate, new graphics for their digital cockpits, and ambient lighting.

More: Alfa Teases The Tonale’s Successor, And Maybe A Dodge Called Goes Like Hell

Equipment is pretty generous, with the Edizione Luna Rossa being the highest-spec trims. In terms of powertrains, the Junior offers the option between hybrid and fully electric setups, while the Tonale is available with hybrid and PHEV options.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio Edizione Luna Rossa

Moving on to the midsize offerings, the aging Giulia and Stelvio take a different route, focusing more on exclusivity and sportiness. The mechanically-related models are pictured with a blacked-out configuration, but the color palette of the Edizione Luna Rossa editions also include white and Etna Red shades.

More: Alfa Romeo Swears The Next Giulia And Stelvio Aren’t Dead, They’re Just ‘Under Study’

Independently of the color, the aging duo benefits from extensive use of carbon fiber on the exterior and the interior, red Alfa Romeo emblems, and the Luna Rossa logo on the mirror caps. The Giulia features Quadrifoglio-inspired side skirts and rear spoiler combined with Gloss Black 19-inch alloy wheels, with the Stelvio riding on 21-inch wheels.

Alfa Romeo Giulia Edizione Luna Rossa

The monochrome interior features a generous amount of carbon fiber on the dashboard, center console, and door cards, alongside leather and recycled Econyl fabric upholstery. Red stripes on the steering wheel and seatbacks break the monotony of black, alongside the matching Alfa Romeo emblems.

Review: Alfa’s 2026 Giulia Quadrifoglio Is Over A Decade Old And Still Out-Handles A New M3

The Edizione Luna Rossa Giulia and Stelvio come standard with a Harman Kardon Hi-Fi system and the electronically controlled suspension. Finally, the electric sunroof is standard on the sedan and optional on the SUV.

As with the regular Giorgio-based models, the special editions are available with the 2.2-liter turbodiesel in two power outputs, while UK buyers also have access to the 2.0-liter gasoline engine that has been phased out in Europe. In other words, only the V6-powered Quadrifoglios escape the Luna Rossa treatment.

The Junior, Tonale, Giulia, and Stelvio Edizione Luna Rossa will gradually go on sale on European markets, positioned at the top of the lineup of each non-Quadrifoglio model. Pricing will be announced closer to the market launch.

More: Alfa Romeo Charged $22,000 Extra For Gold Trim, And Dubai Said Yes

According to Stellantis, the partnership between the two Italian brands goes deeper than colors, materials, and special emblems. More specifically, Alfa Romeo “has provided its expertise in simulation, dynamics and virtual analysis to Luna Rossa, while also collaborating on the development and fine-tuning of the control software for the systems that manage sail movement.”

Alfa Romeo

Stellantis has shared the first teaser of the Opel Sports Tourer eXperimental (STX) Concept ahead of its unveiling at the Paris Motor Show on October 12. The concept is believed to preview a future production wagon, that could replace the Opel Astra before the end of the decade.

According to the automaker, the Opel STX Concept represents “its vision for the future of estate cars”. Opel has been offering family-friendly wagons since the Olympia Rekord Caravan from 1953, while the Sports Tourer moniker is used for the estate variant of the current Astra.

More: Opel Astra GSE Line Brings OPC-Like Power, But Don’t Call It A Hot Hatch

Florian Huettl, Opel CEO, said: “As the name indicates, the Opel STX Concept will give our vision of the future of an aero-efficient estate – a body style that Opel played a pioneering role in establishing in Europe. It shows our next generation design language and feature elements that you will see in future production models.”

The announcement is accompanied by a single teaser that doesn’t reveal much about the design. What we can see is STX concept lettering on what appears to be a portion of the front bumper, featuring a carbon-style finish against a blue or silver bodywork. The company didn’t mention anything about the concept’s powertrain type, but chances are it will feature some sort of electrification.

Stellantis has confirmed that the next generation of the Astra will arrive before 2030. The model will ride on the new STLA One architecture, offering the option between fully electric and hybrid powertrains.

More: This Stellantis Brand Thinks A Wagon Might Make More Sense Than A Hatchback

Furthermore, the Opel CEO has revealed that an estate variant of the next Astra has been locked in, while hinting that the hatchback’s shape may evolve into a non-traditional bodystyle. Reading between the lines, the Astra could evolve into a sporty compact wagon and the upcoming concept might give us a good idea of what to expect.

The official debut of the Opel STX Concept is scheduled for October 12 at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, although the automaker might share more teasers and additional information as we move closer to that date. The wagon will be joined by the GSE 27FE single seater for the upcoming Formula E championship, the fully electric Corsa GSE hot hatch, and the new Astra GSE Line trim.

Citroen is one of Stellantis’ most affordable brands alongside Fiat and Opel. However, as proven by Dacia, there is plenty of demand for flagship trims of budget models in Europe. The French automaker is now introducing a new Outdoor edition for the C3, C3 Aircross, and Ami, featuring more rugged styling and a longer list of standard equipment.

Before you get excited about the off-road capability of the hatchback and SUV models, bear in mind that the Outdoor treatment is more of a styling package. Right off the bat, Citroen explains that their understanding of adventure is “not about extreme conditions or long journeys, but about the ability to make every drive more pleasant, more fun, and extra inspiring.”

Review: Stellantis Gave Citroen C3 And Fiat Grande Panda The Same Bones, But Not The Same Soul

The Outdoor editions of the C3 and C3 Aircross are positioned above the Max trim in the lineup and stand out thanks to several styling updates. The highlight is the redesigned bumpers, inspired by the earlier Citroen C3 Aircross Marine Nationale Concept.

Citroen C3 Aircross Outdoor

The front bumper adopts boxier intakes, Infra Red accents, and a pronounced skid plate finished in gray. The profile gains gray decals on the doors with an Outdoor logo featuring the Migoo comic book mascot. More importantly, the models ride on a new set of 17-inch alloy wheels with boxy spokes and an Infra Red Citroen logo in the middle. Specifically for the C3 Aircross, Citroen added a set of chunkier roof rails.

More: Opel’s Cheapest New Car Is Now A Family SUV With Three Pedals And Steelies

The Sequoia Green shade is new, but buyers can also order the Outdoor specials in Perla Nera Black, Mercury Gray, Polar White, or Bright Blue. At the back, changes are limited to the reshaped silver garnish on the lower section of the rear bumper.

Inside, we find an exclusive graphic pattern on the Advanced Comfort seats with the Migoo mascot laser-etched on the backrests and an Outdoor badge on the dashboard. Furthermore, Infra Red was chosen for the stitching, the seatbelts, and the Citroen emblem on the steering wheel. Naturally, the Outdoor models come standard with a generous equipment list.

Citroen C3 Outdoor

As with the rest of the Citroen C3 and C3 Aircross lineup, the new variants are available with gasoline, mild-hybrid, and fully electric powertrain options and front-wheel drive. Note that the French models share their Smart Car chassis and engines with the Opel Frontera, Fiat Grande Panda, the Fiat Grizzly and an upcoming model from Chrysler.

More: Fiat’s New Grizzly SUV Is Hunting The Dacia Bigster, And It Didn’t Come Alone

The new Outdoor treatment has also been applied to Citroen’s heavy quadricycle. The highlight of the Ami Outdoor is the roll-down fabric sunroof, previously limited to the Ami Buggy. The exterior is finished in Khaki Green with special decals and Infra Red accents. Furthermore, the EV gains a rally-inspired roof spoiler and a set of white steelies.

Citroen Ami Outdoor

Inside, the two-seater cabin has a unique upholstery, the mascot on the backrests, Infra Red seatbelts, and a bunch of optional accessories fitted as standard. Interior amenities include a dashboard storage compartment, bag hook, door storage pockets, floor mats, a central storage net, and a smartphone holder.

The Outdoor special editions will be available to order in the Netherlands starting on October 1, ahead of a wider rollout across European markets. Dutch pricing starts at €30,950 ($35,500) for the C3 Outdoor and at €35,250 ($40,400) for the C3 Aircross Outdoor, positioning them at the very top of their respective lineups.

Citroen Outdoor Lineup