The American Bus Association is continually exploring new ways to garner research and information about the motorcoach industry.

Economic Impact Studies of Motorcoach Destinations
--Washington, DC; New York City; Lancaster,PA [highlights] [full report]
--Chicago, Illinois, [highlights] [full report]
--Cleveland, Ohio, [highlights] [full report]
--Pigeon Forge, [full report]
--Pittsburg, Pennsylvania ,Coming Soon
--West Virginia, Coming Soon

These reports, funded by the individual destinations, are developed by our current research partner John Dunham with Guerilla Economics. This research builds on previous ABA/George Washington University research measuring the economic impact of motorcoach tours on Washington, DC, New York City, Lancaster, PA, and Chicago, IL. Data to be collected includes bus tour characteristics including frequency, duration, type of accommodations, local attractions, tour size, and average price of package.

Comparisons of Energy Use and Emissions - [full report 2007] Comparisons of Energy Use and Emissions from Different Transportation Modes, was produced by respected research firm MJ Bradley and Associates. It is the first study to create a comprehensive comparison between the motorcoach industry and other mass transportation modes. Data included was culled from the 2005 Motorcoach Census, the Federal Transit Administration, the Department of Transportation, and the Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

Motorcoach Industry Census 2005 & 2006 - [full report 2005] [full report 2006]
Motorcoach Census 2005 is the first industry census since 1999 that looks at passenger traffic, vehicle count, mileage, demographics and other key data in the U.S. and Canada. Motorcoach Census 2005 is supplemented by Motorcoach Census 2006 Update, a 'mini survey' that polls the industry on three key factors - passenger traffic, vehicle count, and mileage.

Impact of Motorcoaches on Society and Economy (2007) - [full report]
The ABA Foundation signed on with Nathan Associates, a well-known economic impact research firm based in Arlington, Virginia to prepare a report that communicate to policymakers, the media and consumers the message: The motorcoach industry has a powerful positive impact on society.

University Based Research Program (2006)
As part of our ongoing university focused research program the ABA Foundation disseminates research grants to students for work related to the travel, tour and motorcoach industries. Last year's winner David Keilson conducted an initial study on the suitability of hybrid electric drive for the motorcoach industry. The study includes a literature review and a lifecycle cost analysis. The literature review presents advantages and disadvantages of hybrid electric buses, and transit agency experience with hybrids. Applications are drawn for the motorcoach industry. The focus is on economic and environmental aspects. A lifecycle cost analysis is presented based on the available data. Motorcoach industry performance requirements and hybrid electric performance capabilities are examined briefly.

These research papers are designed to broaden discussion on industry issues. Independent researchers conduct these projects and the views contained within these documents are not necessarily those of the American Bus Association or the ABA Foundation. For more information about official ABA positions on issues of the day, View ABA policy papers . If you would like a copy of the paper please contact the Foundation Manager at dhoff@buses.org.