Thomas Saf-T-Liner

Thomas Saf-T-Liner
Thomas Saf-T-Liner HDX
Overview
ManufacturerThomas Built Buses (Freightliner)
Production1972–present
AssemblyUnited States: High Point, North Carolina
Body and chassis
ClassType D (transit-style)
Body styleMonocoque stressed skin
Layoutfront-engine 4x2
rear-engine 4x2
rear-engine 6x2 (discontinued)
ChassisVarious (1972–1977)
Thomas (1977–present)
Powertrain
EngineDiesel: Cummins, Detroit, & Mercedes-Benz
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG): Cummins (discontinued 2022)
TransmissionAutomatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase181–277 inches (4.6–7.0 m) (HDX)
Width96 inches (2.4 m)
Curb weightGVWR Up to 36,200 pounds (16,400 kg) (HDX)

The Thomas Saf-T-Liner is the name of the transit-style (Type D) school bus product line produced by Thomas Built Buses. It was originally introduced in 1972 using chassis from various manufacturers. Starting for the 1978 model year, the Saf-T-Liner marked the transition to in-house chassis production by Thomas. In addition to school bus applications, variations of the Saf-T-Liner have been produced as activity buses, specialty vehicles, and commercial/transit buses. It can also be used to describe the Saf-T-Liner C2 or Saf-T-Liner FS-65, but they are not considered part of the Saf-T-Liner family.

Currently, all versions of the Saf-T-Liner model line are produced in High Point, North Carolina.