FARIBAULT, Minn. - ABC Companies and its European bus-building partner, Van Hool N.V., have signed an agreement with Caterpillar Inc. that means Cat engines will become available in both Van Hool motorcoaches and ABC-branded M1000 cutaway buses.
Cat's heavy-duty C13 engine will offered in both the T2145 and the C2045 Van Hool touring and commuter coaches, while the C7 Cat engine will available in the midsize ABC M1000 series coaches that are available in 30- and 35-foot lengths.
"Our decision to partner with Caterpillar will deliver important benefits to our operators," said Ron Cornell, president and CEO of ABC Companies.
"By offering next-generation solutions like the Caterpillar C13 and C7 engines, we demonstrate our ongoing commitment to supporting all operational aspects -- from performance, value and quality, to reliability and compliance -- to the businesses we serve," Cornell added.
Caterpillar engines will be offered as options in both Van Hool and ABC M1000 coaches, meaning there will be a "minimal" up-charge for specifying a Cat engine. The new engines will be available beginning December and the first quarter of next year.
In Van Hool coaches, the C13 can be coupled to either an Allison B500 or a ZF AS-Tronic transmission.
Both the C7 and C13 feature Cat's Acert engine emissions-reduction technology, a significantly different approach to meeting federal clean-air standards. Among other things, Acert technology employs a more complex cam/valve system, using electro-hydraulic valve actuators.
Unlike other emissions reduction technology, Acert engines reduce emissions at the point of combustion through engine electronics, the fuel injection system and combustion technology. It employs a higher compression ratio, greater cylinder pressure and series turbo-charging, which is said to improve power, performance and fuel economy.
Acert engines are fully compliant with 2004 EPA emissions standards, and the technology will be used as the foundation to meet future emission regulations for Cat's diesel product line.
The C13 engine that will be available in Van Hool coaches reportedly has the highest horsepower-to-weight rating in its class. The 2,270-pound engine delivers 380 to 430 horsepower, with 1,450 to 1,650 foot pounds of torque.
The C7 engine for the ABC M1000 coaches is available with horsepower ratings ranging from 190 to 330, and 520 to 860 pound feet of torque. It features Cat's patented HEUI fuel system and uses a single, electronic wastegate-controlled turbocharger.
The C7 is built on the proven platform of the Cat 3126E mid-range engine.
ABC Companies distributes Van Hool coaches and sells and leases ABC M1000 series coaches for shuttle, tour, charter, transit and line haul service.