Allison Transmission Aids Modernization of Student Transport in Brazil

In a significant step towards modernizing student transportation in Brazil, Allison Transmission has partnered with Volare, a division of Marcopolo South America, to introduce advanced microbuses equipped with cutting-edge automatic transmissions. This initiative not only enhances fuel efficiency but also transforms the way students travel to school across the country.
This collaboration is particularly noteworthy as it represents the introduction of South America’s first school buses featuring fully automatic transmissions. The initiative is backed by the National Fund for Educational Development (FNDE), marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of student transportation in Brazil.
Redenção pioneers with new 4x4 Volare school buses
In the municipality of Redenção, located in the state of Ceará, a fleet of 4x4 Volare school microbuses has been deployed, all featuring Allison’s state-of-the-art transmissions. This deployment is part of a broader initiative where several Brazilian states are incorporating these vehicles through the Caminho da Escola Program.
The Caminho da Escola Program aims to ensure safe and reliable transport for public school students, particularly those in rural areas. With these modern buses, students can now access their schools daily, even when traversing unpaved or long-distance routes. The introduction of these vehicles has been a game-changer for many communities.
Jane Cleia Pereira da Costa, the Municipal Secretary of Education in Redenção, emphasized the transformative impact of the new buses: “Education in the municipality of Redenção has already faced major challenges. There was a time when children were transported to school on a truck with benches in the back. But with these modern school buses, the investment made in infrastructure is ensuring that our children commute to and from school with comfort and quality, which contributes to a more promising future.”
Designing for rough terrain and simplified driving
Volare has engineered its 4x2 and 4x4 bus models specifically for the challenging terrains found in Brazil, particularly in its Northern and Northeastern regions. The incorporation of Allison’s automatic transmissions eliminates the need for manual shifting, which is particularly advantageous when navigating through mud, gravel, or steep inclines.
This thoughtful design not only simplifies driving in difficult conditions but also significantly reduces driver fatigue. Some of the key benefits include:
- Enhanced control in challenging environments
- Increased comfort during long drives
- Decreased likelihood of accidents due to gear-shifting errors
Drivers have reported a marked improvement in their overall driving experience, highlighting how these advancements contribute to safer transportation for students.
Allison's commitment to smooth power and performance
One of the standout features of Allison Automatics is their torque converter, which provides continuous, uninterrupted power for smooth driving experiences. Unlike traditional manual and automated manual transmission (AMT) systems, Allison transmissions are designed to avoid power loss during gear changes, which enhances overall performance.
The benefits of using Allison automatic transmissions include:
- Lower maintenance requirements
- Increased driver control in a variety of conditions
- Improved overall vehicle performance
These advantages not only make driving more enjoyable but also contribute to the longevity of the vehicles. As noted by José de Souza, a school bus driver with 30 years of experience, “I’ve never driven such a good vehicle. If it was already a pleasure to work, now it’s much better. With the automatic transmission, I feel more confident. With the manual transmission, it’s not like that; sometimes you can miss a gear in a bad place, which doesn’t happen with the automatic transmission.”
Broader implications for student safety and education
The introduction of these modern buses goes beyond mere transportation; it represents a commitment to improving the educational experience for students in Brazil. Safer, more reliable transportation can lead to higher attendance rates and more equitable access to education. This initiative addresses several critical issues:
- **Safety**: Reducing the risks associated with poorly equipped vehicles.
- **Accessibility**: Ensuring that students from rural areas have the means to attend school regularly.
- **Quality of education**: Facilitating a smoother commute can lead to better focus and performance in school.
Moreover, the modernization of student transport can set a precedent for future investments in educational infrastructure across the country. By prioritizing the safety and comfort of students, the government and private sectors can work together to create a more promising future for the younger generations.
Innovative partnerships driving change
The collaboration between Allison Transmission and Volare exemplifies how innovative partnerships can lead to transformative changes in transportation. By leveraging advanced technology, both companies are committed to enhancing the quality of life for students in Brazil.
These initiatives serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges in student transportation. As the demand for improved educational infrastructure grows, the success of such partnerships will be critical in shaping the future of student transport worldwide.
For more insights into how technology is revolutionizing transportation, check out this informative video on hybrid systems:
As Brazil continues to evolve its approach to student transportation, the commitment to safety, reliability, and comfort will undoubtedly pave the way for future advancements in this vital sector.




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