Which characteristic defines a Type A2 school bus?

A Type A2 school bus is defined specifically by its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which must be greater than 10,000 pounds. This classification is important because it helps to differentiate between various types of school buses based on their weight, which can affect safety standards, operational regulations, and the overall design and capability of the vehicle.

Type A buses, which can be further classified into Type A1 and Type A2, include those that are built on a van-type chassis with a specific weight configuration. The A2 designation indicates that the bus has a greater capacity than a Type A1, necessitating a higher GVWR. This classification ensures that buses intended for transporting larger groups of students are built to appropriate safety standards, considering the heavier loads.

In summary, the characteristic that defines a Type A2 school bus is primarily tied to its GVWR, which must exceed 10,000 lbs, marking it as appropriate for the transport of larger numbers of students within specific regulatory guidelines.