As everyone works towards a cleaner environment, Arrow Stage Lines is doing our part to improve on a daily basis. We have added 87 new vehicles to our fleet, replacing older, less efficient vehicles, and we are preparing to add more. Each of the vehicles that we purchase from July (2007) forward will be up to date with the new DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) technology.
We are not able to offer vehicles powered by electricity or low emission fuel at this time. However, we are greener than you might think. The highest mileage car gets approximately 60 miles per gallon, whereas a motorcoach only gets 5 to 9. But if we adjust the numbers to reflect per-passenger fuel efficiency, the picture looks quite different. The per-passenger fuel consumption to travel 100 miles in a hybrid car is about 1.58 gal as compared to .275 gal in a motor coach. By using a motorcoach you might displace up to 56 passenger cars on the highway.
In addition to more environmentally efficient vehicles, we strive to update our maintenance program. We do extended maintenance every 6000 miles. We test oil samples with each oil drain, which allows us to change oil less often. We use synthetic oil, and recycled oil filters and batteries. We use high efficiency transmission oil and filters, which extend our change intervals. Our old antifreeze and used tires are picked up and recycled.
Our emission testing follows emission standards. We adhere to local code and regulations regarding minimized idling by drivers.
Our coaches have the latest technology in air conditioning, using less Freon. Because of this technology, our air conditioning units operate more efficiently. We operate our air conditioning according to the comfort of our guests.
In addition to maintenance, safety is as important to Arrow Stage Lines. We are testing a new GPS tracking system, which is scheduled to be installed on some of our vehicles in July. This will allow us to monitor and set perimeters for vehicle performance and speed, as well as driver skills.
We currently are testing the smart tire system on 50 of our coaches, which monitor and tell the driver if there is a problem with tire pressure. This in turn allows us to maintain better performance and enhance fuel economy, as well as increase safety for our passengers.
We have also installed a new fire suppression system on 50 of our coaches. This system has a sensor that detects a potential fire hazard and extinguishes before the danger can reach the passengers or the driver.
We have installed cameras in all of our vehicles, which is an added safety feature for our drivers and passengers.
Arrow Stage Lines feels strongly that we must all do our part in protecting the environment, as well as providing the safest environment for everyone.
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