MTRWESTERN says it has become the first U.S. motorcoach company to offer fully electric charter bus services, following the addition of four new zero-emission vehicles to its fleet.
The Seattle-based transportation provider now operates five electric vehicles, with plans to add more in the coming year.
The expansion includes two 45-foot CX45E electric buses, manufactured by ABC Companies and Van Hool, along with two Ford E-Transit electric shuttle vans.
The CX45E buses, equipped with advanced battery-electric technology, can travel up to 270 miles on a single charge and accommodate 56 passengers, offering features such as Wi-Fi and reclining seats. The E-Transit vans, which transport up to 11 passengers, also produce zero emissions.
“MTRWESTERN is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint and providing sustainable transportation solutions,” said Jeremy Butzlaff, president of MTRWESTERN. “These new additions help us offer exceptional travel experiences while continuing to minimize our environmental impact.”
MTRWESTERN’s commitment to electric vehicles began in 2021 with a 1,700-mile pilot program in collaboration with ABC Companies.
In 2023, the company introduced the first intercity electric bus service in the U.S. in partnership with Amtrak, operating the Amtrak Cascades route between Seattle and Bellingham, Wash. The service saves 10,000 gallons of diesel fuel annually, reducing CO2 emissions by 109 tons.
MTRWESTERN plans to add four more electric buses to its fleet by the end of 2025.
