Who owns Thomas Built Buses? This question is often asked by those interested in the history and current state of one of the most respected names in the bus manufacturing industry. Thomas Built Buses, known for its high-quality and reliable school buses, has a rich heritage and a complex ownership story that has evolved over the years.
Thomas Built Buses was founded in 1916 by Thomas G. Built, a visionary entrepreneur who saw the potential for a new form of transportation. The company started as a manufacturer of auto bodies and quickly expanded into the school bus market. Over the years, it has become a leader in the industry, known for its commitment to safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
In 1980, the company was acquired by Freightliner Corporation, a division of Daimler Trucks North America. This merger brought together two industry leaders, combining the expertise of Thomas Built Buses with the resources of a major corporation. The acquisition allowed Thomas Built Buses to continue its tradition of excellence while also benefiting from increased investment in research and development.
In 2007, Daimler Trucks North America was acquired by the German company Daimler AG, further expanding the global reach of Thomas Built Buses. This partnership has allowed the company to leverage Daimler’s extensive resources and expertise, ensuring that Thomas Built Buses remains at the forefront of the industry.
Today, Thomas Built Buses is a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America. While the company has changed hands several times over the years, its commitment to quality and safety has remained unwavering. Thomas Built Buses continues to be a leader in the school bus market, with a wide range of products designed to meet the needs of customers around the world.
The ownership of Thomas Built Buses is a testament to the company’s enduring legacy and its ability to adapt to the changing landscape of the transportation industry. As the company continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to its core values of safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction, ensuring that it will remain a trusted name in the school bus market for generations to come.
