ELKHART — A New Paris-based bus manufacturer is under new local ownership.
Forest River, a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles, pontoon boats, cargo trailers and buses, announced that it has acquired portions of Turtle Top's bus manufacturing assets.
Turtle Top, located at 67819 S.R.15, has been family owned since 1962 and manufactures buses and specialty vehicles for some of the most prestigious names in the motor coach industry, as well as numerous state and government agencies, according to a press release.
“We are excited to welcome Turtle Top to the Forest River family," said David Wright, president of Berkshire Coach and Forest River's bus division. "Turtle Top and their dedicated employees have built a history of integrity, quality and innovation, and enjoy one of the best reputations in our industry today. We are honored that they have chosen Forest River to continue the tradition that they have dedicated themselves to building for more than 50 years.”
Turtle Top’s current bus models include the Van Terra, VT3, Odyssey, Odyssey XL, Odyssey XLT and MPV. The diverse product line provides convenient and dependable transportation for colleges, churches, assisted living facilities, retirement communities, transportation companies and government agencies.
Turtle Top’s specialty division builds everything from limousines to bloodmobiles and prisoner transport units to mobile offices.
Forest River did not comment on the price they paid to acquire Turtle Top.