#Brazil #Allison Transmission #Automatic Buses #Redenção

Allison Transmission's Impact on Student Transportation in Brazil

Allison Transmission, a leader in propulsion technology, has made a significant stride in Brazil by introducing the region's very first school buses equipped with fully automatic transmissions. These advancements are part of a larger effort to modernize student transport across the country, improving both safety and efficiency for the young riders.

The latest innovation comes through a partnership with Brazilian OEM Volare, a branch of Marcopolo South America. The new microbuses are outfitted with Allison's T2100 automatic transmissions, featuring extra fuel efficiency (xFE™). This initiative marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of transportation for students in South America, given that automatic transmissions have not previously been a standard in school buses here.

Improving Access to Education

The introduction of these automatic school buses is particularly impactful in municipalities like Redenção, located in Ceará state. The region, characterized by unpaved rural roads and challenging terrain, poses significant logistical hurdles for student transportation. The Caminho da Escola Program, supported by the National Fund for Educational Development (FNDE), aims to overcome these challenges by ensuring pupils have reliable and safe transportation options to their educational institutions.

Jane Cleia Pereira da Costa, the Municipal Secretary of Education in Redenção, shares how vital these new buses are to the community. “Education in Redenção faced significant obstacles. There was a time when children were transported to school on a truck with benches in the back. These modern school buses now allow our children to commute in comfort and safety, paving the way for a brighter future,” she stated.

Designed for Challenges

The Volare buses, available in both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations, are designed specifically to handle the rugged terrains prevalent in Brazil's Northern and Northeastern regions. The automatic transmission technology provided by Allison simplifies the driving experience, allowing for smoother navigation over mud, gravel, or incline roads. Many drivers have noted that this technology lessens physical strain and enhances control in difficult driving conditions.

Gabriel Ruggiero, the Regional Director of Operations for South America at Allison Transmission, emphasized the company’s commitment. “Allison is proud to offer solutions aligned with the FNDE's Caminho da Escola program, ensuring access to punctual and high-quality school transport,” he added.

Driver Testimonials

The benefits of these automatic buses extend beyond just the students; drivers also experience markedly improved working conditions. José de Souza, a long-time school bus driver, remarked, “I've held a driver's license for 30 years, but I've never driven such a good vehicle. The automatic transmission gives me more confidence, preventing any mishaps that could happen with manual shifting.”

Continuous Innovation

Allison Transmission's automatic systems utilize a torque converter to provide continuous power, delivering a seamless driving experience while eliminating the torque interruptions typical with manual or semi-automatic gear shifts. This design not only results in superior performance but also reduces maintenance requirements and enhances overall driver control.

For those wishing to learn more about how Allison Transmission is transforming school transport solutions, further information can be found at AllisonTransmission.com.

Allison Transmission, founded in 1915 and headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, is recognized globally for its advancements in propulsion systems for commercial and defense vehicles. It operates in over 150 countries, with a well-established network of manufacturing facilities and regional headquarters, including in Brazil.

As Brazil progresses in its transportation infrastructure, initiatives like these pave the way for a future where all students can access quality education with confidence and ease.