The bus we’re seeking
Full-size bus. Full-width ambition.
We’re looking for a structurally sound, full-size school bus in the same heavy-duty class as this 2011 Blue Bird All American. A rear-engine transit-style bus or a conventional full-size bus can work. What matters most is a diesel drivetrain, dual rear wheels, air brakes, a robust chassis, obtainable parts, and enough verified payload capacity to become the bones of BAAABS. The exact badge, nose, length, seating layout, and paint are secondary to condition and capability.
Inside, we expect to remove nearly every passenger seat while probably keeping the rear row. That leaves an open, adaptable volume for equipment, storage, circulation, and whatever the build ultimately teaches us we need. An ADA lift is not on the wish list; we would rather avoid the weight, space, maintenance, and body opening unless an otherwise exceptional bus makes a compelling case for keeping or thoughtfully removing one.
The scale is deliberate. In her finished art-car configuration, BAAABS is being designed for deep-playa operation rather than ordinary street use. We accept the turning radius, clearance, storage, transport, setup, and access constraints that come with building her at full size; the operating plan will be shaped around the artwork instead of shrinking the artwork around the operating plan.
