The American Bus Association (ABA) released the first half-year 2016 results of the quarterly Coach Builder Survey. Based on responses from five motorcoach manufacturers, sales in the first half of 2016 exceeded those of the same period over the last three years.

“We found in the survey that more than 1,200 new and more than 560 pre-owned coaches of all sizes were sold so far this year,” said ABA President/CEO Peter Pantuso. “Each year has shown an increases in total vehicle sales and 2016 is no different. This strong upward trend in sales has continued steadily despite a weak economy nationwide.”

Every quarter, the American Bus Association Foundation surveys the major motorcoach manufacturers who sell vehicles in the U.S. and Canada. For this study, a motorcoach — defined as a vehicle designed for long-distance transportation of passengers — characterized by integral construction with an elevated passenger deck located over a baggage compartment. It is at least 30 feet in length with a capacity of more than 30 passengers.

Based on the survey data, total motorcoach sales in the first half of 2016 were greater than the same period over the past three years. So far in 2016, a total of 1,760 vehicles are on the road with new owners. Over the last three years, motorcoach sales compared at 1,500 in 2015; 1,250 in 2014; and 1,300 in 2013 during the same period.

The data also shows a marked increase in the private sector sales of new small (30-feet - 40-feet) motorcoaches compared to years past. Between 2012 and 2015, 144 small coaches were sold each year on average. So far, in just the first two quarters of 2016, 150 vehicles have been sold. If this trend continues, small motorcoach sales in 2016 could more than double in the last four years.

“The increase in sales of smaller vehicles points to a shift the industry has experienced over the past few years, as tours have become more specialized, catering to smaller groups with more customized agendas,” said Pantuso. “The great thing about the motorcoach industry is that we can quickly adapt to trends and get to where the people are and get them where they want to be.”

To review the report, click here.