Buses are an efficient and economical mode of transportation that also help reduce traffic congestion. However, their benefits can sometimes become overshadowed by their less-appealing attributes: lacking ride quality. The large, slow-moving vehicles can often feel jarring and uncomfortable, making for a less than ideal experience for passengers. This affects driver and passenger experience, and is ultimately a leading factor behind driver fatigue and even driver retention issues. Luckily, implementing a bus suspension system such can make a world of difference.
The Problem: Bus drivers in the United States are quitting their jobs at an alarming rate, and one of the main reasons cited is back pain from sitting for long periods of time.
Working as a bus driver can be a difficult job for many, but it is especially hard if one is suffering from chronic back pain. It’s no wonder that bus drivers across the United States are quitting their jobs at an alarming rate. Reports have cited back pain as one of the main reasons why the job has become such a challenge. Being in a seated position while driving for long hours can cause all kinds of discomfort, not to mention the physical stress placed on the muscles and joints.
Smoothing out the ride – through the inclusion of a sophisticated four-corner suspension system will improve working conditions. Other capabilities provided through a LiquidSpring suspension system will also improve driver and passenger experience, resulting in better retention and lower maintenance cost over time.
The Solution: The LiquidSpring Active Suspension helps to reduce vibration and jarring while driving, making it more comfortable for drivers.
When it comes to hours behind the wheel, comfort and safety is of the utmost importance. Finding ways to reduce fatigue and discomfort are essential for any driver. The LiquidSpring four-corner suspension system combats vibration and jarring on mass transit vehicles, helping the driver stay comfortable, reducing their chances for injury over time, and improving overall safety.
Developed to help soothe the impact of bumpy roads, the advanced suspension reduces vibrations and road shock – and improves handling. Further, the chassis lowering capability allows passengers to enter and exit the vehicle with ease, resulting in less required assistance and strain on the driver.
How It Works: Active suspension systems use sensors to detect obstacles along the route and then adjust the bus suspension accordingly, providing a smoother ride for both driver and passengers.
The LiquidSpring Smart Suspension for buses uses sophisticated technology to evaluate speed, steering, breaking, and road inputs 1,000x per second to automatically optimize your ride quality, handling characteristics, and peace of mind.
Our 5-link structure is directed by an onboard microprocessor that simultaneously monitors speed, steering, braking, and road inputs 1000x per second using a proprietary compressible fluid as the spring mechanism to provide the optimal ride and handling characteristics at all times.
The system has been implemented by school districts, city administrators, and other transit agencies across the country – and with strong results. As City of Cottonwood, AZ Transportation Manager Bruce Morrow, explains:
“Drivers and passengers alike love the LiquidSpring suspension on the bus. It makes the day easier for the drivers, and the passengers enjoy the luxury ride in the bus. I will make sure all of our new buses get fitted for LiquidSpring. Best investment I have made since getting here.”
Installation and Maintenance: LiquidSpring active bus suspension systems can be retrofitted onto existing buses or installed on new buses during manufacturing. They require little maintenance beyond occasional calibration, making them a cost-effective solution for bus fleets of all sizes
LiquidSpring active suspension systems are the ideal choice for bus fleets of all sizes. They can be retrofitted onto existing buses or installed during manufacturing of new buses. Furthermore, they minimize time and costs associated with maintenance since they require little more than periodic calibration. If you’re ready to reduce vibrations, increase passenger comfort and improve the longevity of your bus fleet, then turning to a LiquidSpring active suspension system is certainly the way to go.
Visit LiquidSpring to learn more about how their active suspension for buses fortifies fleets, and find a partnering dealer or installer near you.
