A new, high-tech Harvard shuttle bus embarked on its maiden voyage yesterday.

Harvard bought the new shuttle to eliminate overcrowding, according to Peter Witt, general manager of University Shuttle and Fleet Management Services.

"We hope to be able to accommodate a greater crowd of students at Currier [House] and Johnston Gate," Witt said yesterday.

The newest member of the shuttle fleet boasts a more spacious interior, two sets of doors and two back heaters.

Some Quad residents said the addition will help accommodate the 10 a.m. rush of students trying to get to classes.

"It was the first 9:50 [a.m.] shuttle that had enough room," said Cabot House resident Roxanne Willis '97. "Usually there's a huge fight, and half the people get left behind."

The purchase of the shuttle marks the beginning of a replacement process under which a new bus will replace an old one every year for the next six years.

The bus that debuted yesterday will be the largest of the new cadre, Witt said.

According to Witt, the new shuttle will only cover the Currier-Johnston Gate route because its large size prevents it from negotiating narrower roads, such as Everett St. on the way to the Science Center.

The new bus has many other improved features, according to Richard "Richie" Aufiero, who has been a Harvard shuttle driver for the last six years. He said its air brakes and effective handling of bumps allow for a "beautiful air ride."

Witt said the new bus sports a "90s look," with white paint and a new logo.

Student passengers have reacted positively to the new shuttle.

On Friday morning, many Pforzheimer House students "left breakfast early just to be the first ones to ride it," Aufiero said.

Tu Komindr '98 of Pforzheimer House said the shuttle is a "big improvement" because its increased standing space eases the pressure on drivers to handle the crowds of students.

Noemi Flores '97 of Pforzheimer House, who is a Crimson editor, "used to walk" but said she is now "more inclined to ride."