BYD Coach and Bus has announced that the Catalina Island Company will deploy three new BYD C6 motor coaches to shuttle tourists around the historic island. Catalina Island, with its picturesque Mediterranean landscape, is renowned for environmentally sensitive transportation programs that strictly limits private auto use. The addition of the new battery-electric touring buses reflects yet another innovative step toward developing sustainable transportation alternatives on the island.
“BYD is proud to partner with the Catalina Island Company. More than a million people visit Catalina each year, and swapping out diesel buses with battery-electric vehicles will dramatically lessen their footprint,” stated Macy Neshati, BYD senior vice president. “It’s a beautiful public treasure and this decision reflects care and stewardship that we should celebrate.”
The 23-foot BYD C6 Motor Coach is ideally suited for the unique demands of Catalina Island. With a range of 125 miles and the ability to climb substantial grades, the C6 will reliably navigate the island’s hills and contours while providing exquisite passenger comfort. The new buses produce zero emissions and make oil changes a thing of the past. BYD batteries are also 100 percent recyclable.
“Catalina Island Company has a long and rich history of seeking to protect the island’s natural resources,” stated Andrew Welham, vice president of tours and activities for Catalina Island Company. He continued, “the new electric buses reflect an exciting next step in our ongoing sustainability efforts. They will enable us to share the beauty of the island with visitors and, at the same time, preserve its resources.”
