New research by Highland Electric Fleets shows that voters and parents strongly associate electric school buses with better student mental health, particularly for children with special needs or sensory sensitivities. The findings reflect a growing understanding of how school transportation affects student well-being and learning readiness.
60% of respondents and more than two-thirds of parents (67%) agree that reducing environmental stressors like noise and fumes on school buses could help students perform better in school and have a positive mental health experience.
70% of respondents and a massive 81% of parents believe that quieter, smoother school bus rides are somewhat to critical in improving students’ overall mental well-being and reducing stress.
A plurality of respondents and parents (43%) believe electric buses are better for students with sensory sensitivities, such as neurodivergent students.
Nearly two in three respondents (65%) and more than 7 in 10 mothers (71%) express some level of concern about the health impacts of diesel school bus pollution on students.
Two-thirds of U.S. parents (67%) believe that reducing stressors like diesel fumes and noise during the school commute can help support their child’s emotional and academic success. This sentiment is echoed more broadly: 70% of voters say a calmer ride is important for students’ mental health, and among parents, that number rises to 81%.
When asked which type of bus better supports students’ mental health, voters were four times more likely to choose electric over diesel. Concern about diesel exposure is common, with two-thirds of voters expressing at least some concern, including 71% of mothers.
Support is even stronger when respondents consider students with sensory sensitivities or who are neurodivergent. Many view the quieter, smoother ride of electric buses as a meaningful way to reduce sensory stress and create a more inclusive experience. For these students, and for others, there is also growing recognition that reducing exposure to diesel exhaust can contribute to a healthier ride overall.
“It’s encouraging to see so many parents recognizing the benefits electric school buses bring to students,” said Duncan McIntyre, Founder and CEO of Highland Electric Fleets. “At Highland, we’re proud to partner with school districts across the country to help transition fleets from diesel to electric, because it’s not just about cleaner air and lower emissions, it’s about providing a calmer, healthier, and quieter ride that helps set students up for success.”
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