At MTRWESTERN, we have an unwavering commitment to sustainability and reducing our environmental footprint. It’s a core part of our mission and values as a company. That’s why I’m thrilled to announce our latest investment in clean transportation technology with the addition of four new zero-emission electric vehicles to our fleet.
Expanding Electric Charter Bus Service Capabilities
The two new CX45E electric motorcoaches from ABC Companies manufactured by Van Hool represent the latest advancements in battery-powered bus technology. These state-of-the-art buses can carry up to 56 passengers and offer amenities like Wi-Fi and reclining seats, providing an exceptional passenger experience while dramatically reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The two Ford E-Transit electric shuttle vans can transport up to 11 passengers while producing zero direct emissions. The new vehicles bring MTRWESTERN’s electric fleet to a total of five vehicles with current plans to add four more electric buses to the fleet by the middle of 2025.
MTRWESTERN’s EV charter bus journey started in 2021 in partnership with ABC Companies when they completed an unprecedented 1,700 mile U.S. round-trip pilot electric charter bus program. In August 2023, we launched the first intercity electric bus service in the United States in partnership with Amtrak, operating the Amtrak Cascades bus route between Seattle, WA and Bellingham, WA. The connector service saves approximately 10,000 gallons of diesel fuel per year, cutting CO2 emissions by 109 tons or 218,000 pounds annually.
Why We’re Investing in Electric Buses
At MTRWESTERN, our push towards electrifying our bus fleet is driven by two core factors – our commitment to sustainability and our commitment to our customers.
On the sustainability front, the data is clear. Transportation accounts for around 27% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, with medium and heavy-duty trucks making up nearly 25% of that figure. As a motorcoach operator, we have a responsibility to minimize the climate impact of our services as much as possible.
From an economic perspective, the operating cost savings of electric buses are already compelling and will only become more favorable over time. Electricity is far cheaper than diesel fuel on an energy-equivalent basis. Maintenance costs are also lower due to fewer moving parts and fluids like oil that need to be serviced regularly.
While we are paying a premium upfront for electric buses today, the total cost of ownership projections show the investment will pay itself off within 10 years through reduced energy and maintenance spending. Not to mention the hard-to-quantify benefits of reduced noise pollution, improved air quality for regions and communities we service, and the positive brand reputation among sustainability-conscious clients.
Customer-Driven Innovation
The second key driver behind our accelerated electric bus investment is our relentless focus on delivering exceptional experiences for our clients and customers. Thanks to continued advancements in this technology, electric buses have crossed the threshold from niche product to a viable solution for regional motorcoach travel.
Today’s modern electric buses offer travel ranges over 270 miles per charge that can handle long regional daily routes without concerns of recharging. Our fast-charging capabilities at our Seattle and Portland depots during interim stops or breaks between charter services also allow us to top up battery levels as needed. Depending on the speed and scale of regional charging infrastructure, we will eventually be able to deploy these zero-emission buses across our full regional network without compromising operational efficiency or customer experience.
Furthermore, electric buses offer a substantially better experience for our passengers than diesel buses in many ways. They operate essentially silently with much less noise, heat, and vibration. The climate control systems provide consistent heating and air conditioning with no emissions circulating into the cabin.
We know there is a growing demand among many clients and consumers for more sustainable transportation solutions that don’t sacrifice comfort or convenience. Our investment in these state-of-the-art electric buses and shuttle vans allows us to directly meet that demand and continue delivering a premium travel experience.
The EV Charter Bus Road Ahead
While we’ve taken a major step forward today, our work is just starting when it comes to minimizing our environmental impact. We will continue analyzing all aspects of our operations to identify ways to enhance our sustainability efforts.
Our team is also actively implementing other emerging vehicle technologies such as the current use of R99 fuel to help significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. In 2023, 56% of MTRWESTERN’s monthly miles driven were operated with R99 as our fuel source.
I’m extremely proud that MTRWESTERN is helping lead the way across U.S. motorcoach operators when it comes to sustainable motorcoach transportation. By providing high-quality regional travel experiences in an environmentally responsible manner, we’re doing our part to drive the transition towards a greener future of mobility. I look forward to sharing more updates on our sustainability efforts as our progress continues.
Safe travels,
Jeremy Butzlaff
President, MTRWESTERN
