MOTORCOACH

The Motorcoach Transit Channel provides information on the latest motorcoach news, with research, reports and industry links. With all the technological and equipment innovations being developed, examine which ones make sense to implement in your motorcoach operation to enhance cost savings, optimize operational efficiencies and improve customer satisfaction. Keep informed of the latest safety and emissions regulations, government legislation and funding issues impacting the motorcoach industry.

May 16, 2012

NHTSA proposes electronic stability control rule for buses, coaches

Agency research shows the technology could prevent up to 56% of rollover crashes each year—the deadliest...

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May 15, 2012

METRO publisher promoted to VP

Frank Di Giacomo’s new title is part of the changes brought on by METRO parent Bobit Business Media’s...

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May 15, 2012

APTA, BAF: Pass fully-funded transportation bill

Groups released a study predicting that record numbers of Americans will turn to public transportation...

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May 15, 2012

ABA, Lancer to distribute crisis management video

All ABA operator members are eligible to access a free copy of Lancer’s “The First 24 Hours: How...

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6 Tips for Diversifying Your Coach Offerings

Careful budget planning in advance, cross-utilizing resources, strategic partnerships and tapping into local employers are some ways to ensure a smooth expansion into new bus markets.

Vehicle Lifts Becoming More Affordable, Portable and Sustainable

Mobile column lifts have increased steadily in popularity, with many manufacturers and industry veterans foreseeing improvements in the models’ efficiency and effectiveness.

Northfield Lines Expands Operation Via Fleet, Customer Diversification

Over the past 23 years, John (pictured) and Larry Benjamin, co-owners of the Minnesota-based business, have built up their companies to become award-winning motorcoach and school bus operations. Meanwhile, the industry says goodbye to Larry, a well-loved member who made invaluable contributions through the UMA.

UMA Expo Touts Tools to Bolster Business

Key presentations included NTSB, FMCSA chiefs discussing safety programs, while business executives talked brand building and marketing tactics.

PRODUCTS

Digital media center

REI’s Digital Media Center is the centerpiece of any motorcoach audio/video entertainment system, offering easy access to thousands of movies, songs and photos. The system includes a 500GB mobile hard drive and a touchscreen LCD control panel. Features include two independent video displays; touch screen and passenger video output; user-friendly software designed for passenger use; safety video priority playback with reporting and password protection from unauthorized use.

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Three-point Belt Seat

Premier, a 3-point belted seat, features Safe Guard SmartFrame technology that protects both belted and unbelted passengers, providing improved safety for the entire family, from large adults to small infants. Premier is the only motorcoach seat combining lap-shoulder belts with full compartmentalization. The seat is comprised of two structures: the inner structure provides lap-shoulder belts and absorbs crash energy for belted passengers, while the outer seatback structure remains vertical to cushion anyone behind the seat who is not belted, providing full compartmentalization protection in frontal crashes.

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DEPARTMENTS

Bus safety app makes data more accessible

SaferBus provides access to safety records on approximately 6,000 interstate commercial passenger carriers operating in the U.S., which includes privately operated motorcoach, school bus and tour bus companies.

Motorcoaches are an underused, but growing mode

Both motorcoach and intercity passenger rail also reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign oil and make the U.S. economy more competitive.

Maryland commuter service to link riders to jobs

MTA will add to its commuter service with 18 new MCI Commuter Coaches.

Supply side must tap into conservatives' focus on private sector growth

This crop of conservatives simply doesn't believe the federal government has a role in developing the infrastructure we need to stay competitive in the global economy.