Sustainability has become a central theme across the transportation industry; yet, motorcoaches are often left out of the conversation, despite being one of the most energy-efficient modes of travel. 

A new report from the American Bus Association (ABA) aims to change that by highlighting the environmental benefits of motorcoach travel, as well as its role in easing congestion and reducing emissions.

To dig deeper into the report’s findings and what they mean for operators, legislators, and consumers, METRO’s Executive Editor Alex Roman sat down with Michelle Petelicki, president of New Jersey’s Panorama Tours, for a recent episode of METROspectives. 

In this conversation, she shares how her company is putting sustainability into practice, how motorcoaches are stepping up during moments of crisis, and why events like the FIFA World Cup could be pivotal opportunities for the industry.

About ABA’s Recent Sustainability Report

Why do you think this was the right time for ABA to release its sustainability report?

The timing is spot-on. We’re seeing a shift toward motorcoach travel due to frustrations with air travel, including cancellations, higher costs, and lengthy TSA lines. 

People also appreciate the comfort of traveling with those they know, and motorcoaches offer that, along with the door-to-door convenience that planes and trains can’t provide. Bringing sustainability into that conversation makes our value proposition even stronger.

Are you seeing that play out at Panorama Tours?

Yes. A great example was the rail strike in New Jersey. Panorama expanded our Bergen Bullet commuter run to help stranded commuters. That reliability, showing up when others couldn’t, has grown our market even after the strike.

The data clearly show motorcoaches are a green option, yet the public perception doesn’t match. Why is that?

We’re a smaller industry without the PR reach of airlines or rail. There’s still a stigma that motorcoaches are old, smoky vehicles, when in reality they’re modern, clean, and equipped with emissions-reducing technologies. DEF, DPF filters, and clean idle certifications have dramatically reduced emissions. We need to keep telling that story.

You mentioned clean idle technology. Why is it important?

It cuts NOx emissions by about 50% below regulatory limits. That’s significant. Combined with DEF systems and particulate filters, we’ve made real progress. Some people even say the air going out is cleaner than the air going in. Whether or not that’s literally true, the reductions are undeniable.

Taking it to Capitol Hill, Playing a Part in Major Events

Beyond technology, the industry has become more engaged in Washington. How have you seen that change?

It’s night and day. Years ago, legislators didn’t even know what a motorcoach was. Now, through advocacy efforts by the ABA, UMA, and local associations, lawmakers view us as part of the solution to congestion and sustainability. I’ve had legislators call Panorama directly for help because they now know we’re a resource. Reports like this give us credibility when we advocate.

Let’s talk about significant events. How do motorcoaches fit into the bigger sustainability picture?

They’re essential. Whether it’s concerts at MetLife Stadium or the upcoming World Cup, motorcoaches move people efficiently and reduce the number of cars on the road. That means less congestion and fewer emissions. Ground transportation will be critical to the success of these events, and this report helps prove that.

What’s Next?

Was there anything in the ABA report that surprised you?

The energy efficiency numbers. Motorcoaches use about 710 BTUs per passenger mile — less energy than it takes to toast two slices of bread. That blew me away. It’s such a simple, relatable comparison that I’ll use it whenever I explain our sustainability benefits.

How do you plan to use the data from this report?

We’re incorporating it into our marketing and messaging. People understand carpooling; we’re just doing it on a larger scale. Younger generations, in particular, are seeking sustainable options, so being able to support our green message with credible data is a decisive advantage.

Any final thoughts?

Just grateful that this report exists. Having current data to share with policymakers, customers, and the public is invaluable. It shows that motorcoaches aren’t just reliable and convenient, they’re also one of the most sustainable ways to travel.

This article, generated using OpenAI, was edited for accuracy and style and based on an episode of METROspectives