MT. PROSPECT, Ill. Can going "green" create a marketing niche for a motorcoach operator?

A Chicago-area coach company, headed by an industry veteran with a familiar last name, thinks it can.

Richard L. Hausman, president of Chicago Classic Coach, says his interest in promoting green transportation stems both from a desire to standout in the marketplace, as well as to respond to demands from destination management companies wanting to deliver greener transportation choices to their corporate and tour customers.

"Many (customer) companies are tackling environmental stewardship and a move to green coach transportation widens their opportunities," says Hausman, who founded Chicago Classic Coach last year after a 25-year career in the industry. He is the son of industry legend Gerald 'Jerry' Hausman, the late founder of Hausman Bus Sales.

"Today's motorcoaches offer leisure travelers a roomy, smooth ride and a way to reduce their carbon footprint," notes Hausman.

To back up and emphasize his green message, Hausman has purchased four new MCI J4500 coaches equipped with 2007 EPA-compliant engines. In doing so, Hausman becomes the first operator in greater Chicago to operate 2007 reduced-emissions tour coaches.

"As much as offering cleaner transport is a marketing differentiation for us," says Hausman of the cleaner-burning coaches, adding "it's also good for Chicago and the surrounding area.

"As we continue to battle congestion, our goal is to change car riders into passengers by offering the convenience, luxury amenities and the eco-friendliness a tour coach trip provides."

Hausman said he already has a full fall schedule for his new coaches, with one next month being particularly appropriate.

Chicago Classic Coach will shuttle individuals attending the U.S. Green Building Council's annual Greenbuild International Conference and Expo at McCormick Place in Chicago.

The new J-model MCIs bring Chicago Classic Coachs fleet to 20 coaches and two midsize buses.

The company Website is at www.chicagoclassiccoach.com.