Motorcoaches lead every other travel mode in terms of their fuel efficiency on a per-passenger basis, averaging more than 200 passenger miles per gallon, according to a new study by MJ Bradley & Associates released by the American Bus Association Foundation (ABAF).

The new study, “Updated Comparison of Energy Use & Emissions From Different Transportation Modes,” shows that motorcoaches offer 206.6 passenger miles per gallon (mpg), the highest of 14 modes studied.

“On average, motorcoaches use the least amount of energy and produce the lowest carbon dioxide emissions per passenger mile of any of the transportation modes analyzed,” the study confirms. Among the 14 modes studied, personal automobiles averaged 22.4 passenger mpg, SUVs 15 passenger mpg and hybrid cars 46 passenger mpg.

“We hope to work with President Obama and the new Congress to lend a hand, not ask for a handout,” said Peter Pantuso, ABAF president. “We are cost-effective, accessible, convenient and hassle-free, as well as green. We infuse every community with tourism dollars through retail spending on lodging, dining, attractions, souvenirs and tax revenue. We bind the nation together and provide mobility to millions of Americans who otherwise wouldn’t have it.”

The full study is available on the ABA Foundation Website at http://www.buses.org/files/2008ABAFoundationComparativeFuelCO2.pdf.