Azure Dynamics Partners with Champion Bus
Jun 2, 2009 1:55 PM
Azure Dynamics Corporation (TSX: AZD) today announced a partnership with Champion Bus that allows Champion Bus customers and dealers the option to select Azure's Balance Hybrid Electric Drivetrain System in Ford E-450 Shuttle Buses they order from Champion.
"With Champion, we add another significant and well-regarded builder in the bus body sector to our growing roster of distributors," said Jay Sandler, Azure Dynamics' Vice President of Sales. "Our relationship gives Azure added distribution and reach into the shuttle bus market while offering Champion access to our efficient and environmentally friendly technologies."
Champion ordered its first Azure Balance Hybrid Electric chassis last fall and has installed their Challenger Body on the product. The completed bus will be displayed at the upcoming Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) Expo in Providence, Rhode Island during the first week of June. The CTAA Expo is one of the largest annual events for shuttle bus manufacturers and users.
"We're demonstrating our enthusiasm for the Azure technology by making it our featured product at the upcoming CTAA show," said John Resnik, President of Champion Bus. "We want to show a product that will excite the customers and separate Champion from the other vendors. We think we have that with the new Azure product."
With its electric-launch assist, engine-off at idle and regenerative braking, the Azure Balance Hybrid Electric is ideally suited for the tough start and stop conditions endured by shuttle buses. As a result, Champion customers that select the Balance Hybrid Electric can expect up to 40% improvement in fuel economy and up to 30% reduction in maintenance costs. Importantly, the hybrid drive train also reduces greenhouse emissions by up to 30% thereby reducing the owner's carbon footprint and improving air quality.
Champion Bus is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Thor Industries, Inc., a major builder of commercial buses.
For more information about Azure Dynamics and its products, please visit www.azuredynamics.com
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