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In the years following World War II, as automobiles became plentiful, bus
riding declined, and the smaller companies in the U.S. intercity bus
industry wanted new vehicles that would cost less to buy and operate. One of
the answers was provided by the Spartan coach, designed by Howard Munshaw
(formerly with Pony Cruiser). A 21-passenger bus on a 170-inch wheelbase
and equipped with an International engine and 5-speed Fuller transmission,
the original type of Spartan had a framework of welded steel tubing similar
to that of the Aerocoach. A few Spartans were also sold to major operators,
which used them for feeder routes and other lightly traveled lines, and five
went to Nairn Transport of Syria. Two larger models seating 25 and 29
passengers were introduced in 1949, but by that time the trend in the
industry was to the introduction of new features such as air-conditioning to
attract more business rather than to cut costs, and only about 20 buses were
sold in 1949. The company was shut down, and Howard Munshaw went on to form
Cub Industries and build small transit buses instead.
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