Used Turtle Top busesTurtle Top Buses for Sale
Turtle Top builds commercial shuttle buses, including VanTerra, Odyssey and Terra Transit models. Seating, chassis and accessibility equipment differ by model and year. Match the entry layout, passenger space and luggage capacity to the route, then review service records for the individual used bus.
Why choose a Turtle Top bus
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Van Terra models replace traditional 15-passenger vans with a raised roof and easier entry.
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Its range runs from van conversions to shuttles of up to about 41 passengers, all from one builder.
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Executive and luxury interiors are a Turtle Top specialty for corporate and hospitality shuttles.
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It's built on Ford, Chevrolet, International and Freightliner chassis, so service shops know the drivetrain.
Turtle Top bus specifications and capacity
| Model Family | Typical Capacity | Primary Use | Engine Options | CDL Required? |
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| Van Terra (raised-roof van) | 9 - 15 Passengers | Church, Executive Shuttle, Vanpool | Gas | Depends on Size |
| Terra Transit / Odyssey (E-350, E-450, Chevy cutaway) | 12 - 28 Passengers | Hotel, Paratransit, Corporate | Gas | Depends on Size |
| Odyssey XL / Terra Transit HD (F-550, Freightliner S2C, International) | 24 - 41 Passengers | Airport, Tour, Transit | Diesel | Usually yes |
Find the right Turtle Top for your operation
Best for Corporate & Executive Shuttles
Turtle Top executive interiors with leather seating suit client and VIP transport.
Best for Churches & Nonprofits
Van Terra models are an easier-boarding alternative to a 15-passenger van and may not need a CDL, depending on designed seating (including the driver), GVWR, use and state rules.
Best for Paratransit & Senior Living
Terra Transit ADA shuttles combine lifts with flexible seating for mixed-ability riders.
Best for Health Outreach
Turtle Top mobile health clinics bring exam space to underserved areas.
About Turtle Top Buses
Table of Contents
About Turtle Top
Turtle Top started in northern Indiana in the 1930s and moved into raised-roof van conversions in 1962. It grew into a full shuttle bus builder with the Van Terra, Terra Transit and Odyssey families, plus custom mobile clinics. Forest River acquired certain Turtle Top assets in June 2017. Later that year, Turtle Top's parent company, Independent Protection Company (IPC), reacquired the commercial bus division on October 19, 2017.
What Buyers Look for in Used Turtle Top Buses
Buyers usually compare chassis and engine, seat count against CDL needs, lift condition on ADA units, and interior wear on executive models (leather, flooring, entertainment systems). Check roof seams and windows for leaks, as you would on any body-on-chassis bus.
How to Shop Turtle Top Inventory on BusesForSale.com
Filter by year, mileage and seating, and search "Turtle Top," "Turtletop," "Van Terra" and "Odyssey." As of October 2026, priced Turtle Top listings on BusesForSale.com ranged from about $26,000 for a 2010 Van Terra to $266,000 for a 2024 Freightliner Terra HD.
Did you know?
Sellers spell the brand several ways, including "Turtle Top," "Turtletop" and "TurtleTop." Searching model names like "Odyssey" or "Van Terra" catches listings the brand search might miss.
Featured Turtle Top inventory
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2025 Turtle Top Terra Transit Hd Shuttle Bus
Experience reliable, high-capacity guest transport with the 2025 Turtle Top Terra Transit HD Shuttle Bus. Purpose-built for shuttle service, this fleet-ready solution seats up to 35 passengers in comfort, making it an exceptional asset for airport transport, hotels, retirement communities, hospital systems, and event venues. The reinforced structure and spacious interior deliver outstanding durability and ease of movement, ensuring efficient operations during demanding, short-haul schedules. Premium Freedman seats with 3-point seatbelts prioritize the safety and comfort of airplane travelers, community residents, tourists, and employees alike.
Equipped with a powerful FREIGHT FL6.7LV6 engine and smooth automatic transmission, this new Turtle Top model is engineered for longevity and consistent performance. Turtle Top is renowned for its craftsmanship and innovation in group transportation, providing peace of mind for operators and a superior experience for every guest.
2015 Turtle Top E350 Shuttle Bus
Experience reliable and comfortable short-haul transportation with the 2015 Turtle Top E350 Shuttle Bus, built on the trusted Ford chassis and designed for organizations seeking efficient guest transport solutions. With seating for up to 10 passengers, this fleet-ready shuttle is ideal for shuttle service operators, retirement communities, hotels, hospital systems, and more. The 5.4L gas engine and Ford E350 chassis ensure smooth, dependable performance for daily routes, while the spacious interior offers passengers a relaxing ride to and from airports, events, or community destinations.
Turtle Top is renowned for its commitment to durability and rider comfort, making it a leading choice among shuttle bus manufacturers. The E350 model is engineered to deliver consistent service and satisfy the needs of both operators and riders alike.
2022 Turtle Top E450 Shuttle Bus ADA
Experience exceptional shuttle service and guest transport solutions with the 2022 Turtle Top E450 Shuttle Bus. Purpose-built for fleet-ready performance, this bus accommodates 12 passengers plus 2 wheelchair positions, making it a versatile choice for retirement communities, assisted living facilities, hospital systems, hotels, airports, churches, and event venues. The proven 7.3L Gas engine on the Ford E450 chassis delivers reliable power for short-haul operations, ensuring smooth rides for airplane travelers, tourists, community residents, and employees.
Turtle Top is renowned for its commitment to safety, comfort, and durability in passenger transportation. The Ford brand is synonymous with robust engineering and dependability, providing peace of mind for operators and passengers alike.
2015 Turtle Top Express 3500 Shuttle Bus ADA
Enhance your short-haul and shuttle service operations with the 2015 Turtle Top Express 3500 Shuttle Bus, designed for both passenger comfort and fleet-ready efficiency. With seating for 12 passengers and dedicated space for two wheelchairs, this bus is perfectly suited for retirement communities, assisted living facilities, hospital systems, hotels, and airport guest transport. The robust 6.0L gas engine and reliable Chevrolet Express 3500 chassis ensure smooth operation and dependable performance on every route.
Turtle Top is renowned for its focus on passenger safety, durability, and thoughtful amenities, making it a trusted brand among shuttle fleet operators. Chevrolet’s engineering provides a sturdy foundation for daily service and guest transport needs.
2019 Turtle Top E450 Shuttle Bus ADA
Experience unmatched versatility and comfort with the 2019 Turtle Top E450 Shuttle Bus, designed to elevate your shuttle service operations. With seating for 12 passengers and accommodations for 2 wheelchairs, this fleet-ready vehicle is ideal for short-haul routes and guest transport. The Ford E450 chassis delivers proven reliability, while the 6.8L gas engine ensures robust performance for all your fleet needs. Thanks to its thoughtful design and accessible configuration, this shuttle bus is a perfect fit for airport transport, retirement communities, assisted living centers, hospitals, hotels, and churches—making every ride smooth and convenient for airplane travelers, tourists, residents, and guests alike.
Turtle Top is renowned for building durable, comfortable buses that prioritize passenger safety and accessibility. Backed by Ford’s legacy of performance and dependability, the E450 platform offers confidence with every journey.
Financing and leasing options
Need a payment structure that matches your operation? We help buyers compare financing and leasing options that support faster approvals and predictable monthly costs.
Commercial Financing
Competitive rates for qualified buyers, with terms built for corporate, hospitality, church, and healthcare shuttle acquisitions.
Leasing Programs
Flexible lease structures for organizations that need predictable monthly costs and regular fleet refresh cycles.
Common Questions
Turtle Top bus FAQs
The questions our team hears most about buying a used Turtle Top, answered in full.
Who makes Turtle Top buses, and where are they built?
Turtle Top buses are built by Turtle Top in New Paris, Indiana, at its plant on State Road 15. The company has been converting raised-roof vans since 1962 and now builds shuttle buses, executive coaches and specialty vehicles. Its parent company, Independent Protection Company, reacquired the commercial bus business in October 2017, and ABC Companies is among the dealers that sell new Turtle Top shuttles.
What types of vehicles does Turtle Top build?
Turtle Top builds raised-roof passenger vans, cutaway shuttle buses, mid-size transit-style buses and specialty vehicles. The range includes the Van Terra and VT3 vans, Odyssey shuttles, Terra Transit buses in LD, MD and HD sizes, and the Odyssey XL on Ford F-550, Freightliner and International chassis. Turtle Top also builds mobile health and dental clinics, prisoner transport buses and command posts for government and healthcare buyers.
Do Turtle Top buses need a CDL?
Some Turtle Top buses need a CDL and some do not, depending on designed seating and weight. Smaller Van Terra vans with 15 or fewer seats including the driver usually do not require a federal CDL. Terra Transit MD and HD buses, seating about 26 to 41, and Odyssey XL buses, often listed with 24 to 36 seats, require a CDL with a passenger endorsement. State rules can add requirements.
Where can you get Turtle Top parts and service?
Turtle Top parts and service are split between the chassis maker and Turtle Top's body network. Engines, transmissions, brakes and chassis recalls are handled by Ford, Chevrolet, Freightliner or International dealers, depending on the bus. Body components such as fiberglass roof caps, windows, doors, lifts and interior trim come from Turtle Top in New Paris, Indiana, or through dealers such as ABC Companies. Have the VIN ready when ordering.
Is Turtle Top owned by Forest River?
No, Turtle Top's commercial bus business is not owned by Forest River today. Forest River acquired certain Turtle Top assets in June 2017, but Turtle Top's parent, Independent Protection Company, reacquired the commercial bus division later that year and returned production to New Paris, Indiana. Some online summaries still describe Turtle Top as a Forest River brand, which reflects that brief 2017 ownership.
Not sure which Turtle Top fits your route?
Tell us your passenger count, route profile and budget. We will shortlist the Turtle Top stock that matches and tell you what is realistic.