What is the primary design purpose of a type I school bus?

The primary design purpose of a type I school bus is to carry more than 16 passengers and the driver. Type I school buses are designed specifically for transporting students and are built with safety and capacity in mind, adhering to regulations that ensure they can accommodate a large number of passengers. This design is critical as it facilitates efficient transportation for school groups, making it a fundamental part of school transportation systems.

In contrast, options that suggest carrying fewer passengers, focusing solely on private transportation, or serving emergency evacuation purposes do not align with the established classification of a type I school bus. These buses are intended to provide safe, reliable transport for a significant number of students, making option B the most accurate representation of their primary purpose.