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The pressure of the marketplace is to demand environmentally-friendly products. This is keenly felt in the bus industry whether the product is used commercially or for pupil transportation. One of the lead states to make the greatest resource commitment is California and Blue Bird Corporation, fulfilling its leadership role, has aided California in this struggle. To date two engine manufacturers have made outstanding contributions to the use of natural gas as an alternative fuel. Tecogen, Incorporated developed the General Motors 427 cu. in. V-8 into an alternative fuels engine that operated as naturally-aspirated as well as turbocharged. John Deere designed a state-of-the-art, fully-electronic 8.1L Powertech engine that is presently setting a new standard in performance and fuel economy. Fuel tankage and delivery systems cannot be neglected for their role in creating a successful product. Valves, regulators and fuel lines have all been developed for safety and good maintenance.

A foundation of highway truck ride and cab suspension historical evolution is laid describing the influence of marketplace demands, highway conditions, and government laws. Ride quality test methods are revealed along with variables tried and conclusions drawn. These data and techniques are then used to design cab suspension systems for a new line of truck products including both conventional and COE cabs.