“Green” described more than just the fairways at the 2022 U.S. Open, thanks to Boston-based Yankee Line.
The 42-year-old luxury bus and motorcoach operator partnered with Motor Coach Industries (MCI) to operate the first zero-emission electric motorcoach for attendee shuttle service at the 2022 U.S. Open.
The zero-emission motor coach provided shuttle service between Forest Hills MBTA station and The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts, from June 16-19, helping transport the nearly 30,000 attendees per day.
The 52-seat, fully electric luxury motorcoach operated a full 15-hour shift with a single charge each day of the tournament.
Technology showcase
“We believe this partnership helps to pave a greener and more sustainable future within the transportation industry,” Yankee Line’s Mike Costa said. “We’re excited to work with the USGA and our other valued clients to continue to explore options to expand usage of this new zero-emission technology.”
The large event provided an ideal opportunity to showcase the luxury J4500 CHARGE. Last year, MCI unveiled zero-emission version of the industry’s bestselling J series tour and charter luxury coaches, its first battery-electric luxury coach in the North American market. The CHARGE’s batteries deliver a range of more than 200 miles, and can recharge in roughly four hours, according to the company.
Following prototype testing in 2018, MCI has continued rigorous field testing of MCI’s battery-electric performance to prove operation through virtually any condition. The vehicle’s range makes it suitable for tour and charter, employee shuttle, and executive coach operators looking to lower their emissions and total operating costs while maintaining the luxury passenger experience that has defined MCI for decades.
“The battery-electric CHARGE eliminates emissions while delivering high-capacity luxury coach transportation, a natural choice to support the USGA’s recent announcement that this U.S. Open was the most sustainable in championship history,” said Patricia Ziska, vice president of private sector sales.