Most notable at this year's show were the new vehicles brought to market that satisfy the more practical and cost-conscious realities of the chauffeured transportation industry. Some major exhibitors showed off green vehicles for eco-conscious operators, including Royale's Fusion Hybrid L, DaBryan/Tuscany propane Transit Van, and Krystal Hybrid bus and CNG stretch Lincoln Town Car.

Royale's Fusion Hybrid L Provides Efficient Comfort

Once again, the six-inch stretched Royale Fusion Hybrid L that gets 41 mpg was a show-stopper, drawing interested buyers on the show floor all three days. CEO Cabot Smith and director of sales Steve Edelmann fielded constant questions from visitors. The Fusion Hybrid L achieves gas mileage savings and extended legroom, qualifying it as a "Prius-slayer" since it actually adheres to the standards of comfortable chauffeured transportation.

DaBryan/Tuscany Hits the Floor Running with Propane Transit Van

All things being practical now in chauffeured transportation, there is a definite market for the propane gas version of Tuscany's Transit Van, a 12-passenger Ford conversion that offers a lower purchase price, lower operating costs, better mileage than a shuttle bus, a large luggage area, and ease of maneuverability in traffic. The van has a flip seat at 60/40 side entry doors, a stainless steel side entry assist bar with padded grip, door activated step well and dome lighting, and three-point premier LX seating with level 3 fabric.

Krystal Enterprises Brings Out the Stretches and Buses

In a sign that the industry will endure, Krystal featured four-stretch limousines and three mini-buses on its show floor display, including its signature green vehicles, the Krystal Hybrid bus and CNG (compressed natural gas) stretch-Lincoln Town Car limousine. The CNG limousine is being used by the Aria Resort & Casino in the City Center complex next to the Palazzo Resort Hotel & Casino. Executive VP John Beck reported an uptick in sales compared to last year and growing interest in the green vehicle options.