Blue Oval continues to be a partner with Blue Bird.
Engine swaps are inevitable. We thought the huge power output of the engine would make it a joy to tune to great numbers. The latest vehicle to use the appropriately-named powerplant is not what you might expect. Blue Bird continues its partnership to the Blue Oval with the use of the latest 7.3-liter V8 in its gasoline and propane Vision school buses for the model year 2022. Roush CleanTech will provide a specially-designed fuel system for school buses. This replaces the Ford 6.8-liter motor that Blue Vision used previously.
Phil Horlock, President and CEO of Blue Bird Corporation, stated that the exclusive partnership between Blue Bird and ROUSH CleanTech and Ford continues as we launch Ford’s new engine with cutting edge fuel systems in our Vision school buses.
350 hp (261kW) is the Godzilla V8 engine, which is used for school bus applications. This engine produces 350 hp (261kW) rather than the standard 430 hp (312 kW). It has the highest combination of horsepower, torque and power, making it a workhorse.
Blue Bird also stated that the new 7.3L engine has a narrower bore than the 6.8L mill. This allows for more space for school bus technicians. The new engine and Gen 5 fuel system are now available for orders.