The Wichita school district is one of two nationwide testing new hybrid electric school buses.

Collins Bus Corporation, the manufacturer, says the buses will increase fuel economy by 35-percent while reducing emissions and maintenance costs by 30-percent. Company vice-president Greg Miller tells the "Wichita Eagle" that Wichita is a good fit for the test, because it's close to the company's South Hutchinson facilities, and because of the diverse weather there.

If the buses are mass produced, they would cost about 20-thousand dollars apiece, but the prototype costs about 100-thousand dollars. Production could begin within two years if the buses make the grade.

They seat 12 people and can accommodate two people with disabilities.