A Custom Coach History Lesson: More Than Just a Ride

Custom Coaches are an integral part of the transportation industry, playing a significant role in the evolution of public and private transit systems. Their history is a testament to innovation, craftsmanship, and adaptability.

We want to share with you this incredible journey through time to explore the fascinating history of custom coaches!

In the early 1960s, the custom coach industry underwent some major changes. The Flxible Clipper Starliner conversion was coming to an end, and existing intercity coaches like the GM 4106 and the Flxible Flxiliner weren't cutting it anymore when it came to making ideal executive coach conversions. This was especially true for those who wanted to create motorhome interiors, and the lack of automatic transmissions at the time made things even more complicated.

But then, Custom Coach teamed up with the Marmon Herrington Co. of Indianapolis in 1962 to build five 35-foot units tailored to the market's specific needs (you can see an example in Exhibit J).

Unfortunately, Marmon Herrington eventually decided to exit the coach shell business, leaving the industry searching for alternatives.

Enter the 3510 Land Cruiser, showcased in Exhibit M. This 35-foot coach was built on a GMC rear-engine chassis with a powerful 478 cubic-inch engine, overseen by the Hughes-Keenan company in Delaware, Ohio. Various components were sourced from Flxible in Loudonville, Ohio, including the front end, windshields, bumpers, and rear sunshades. These components were actually leftover parts from the out-of-production Hi-Level model.

The entire package, including the chassis and body, came with a price tag of $24,000, which included features like the Flxible front entrance door and a curbside center entrance door.

Over time, the 3510 Land Cruiser went through some modifications, with the shell cost eventually reaching $27,700. Additional interior changes valued at $40,000 increased the total investment to $67,700.

Building on the success and knowledge gained from the 3510 model, Custom Coach introduced the 3520 coach, priced at $76,600. This new version brought several improvements, including a sturdier chassis, a lower floor height from the ground, and a significant addition in the form of an air ride suspension system.

These advancements within the custom coach industry highlight its adaptability and commitment to innovation, which have been defining characteristics throughout its history. The move from the Flxible Clipper Starliner to the 3510 and 3520 Land Cruiser models demonstrates the industry's dedication to meeting changing customer needs and incorporating technological advancements.

Modern Custom Coaches: Embracing Innovation

Custom coaches have come a long way and are still very much in demand. They are used in various industries and applications, ranging from luxurious motorhomes to cutting-edge tour buses and specialized commercial vehicles.

Due to amazing technological advancements, these coaches now come with fantastic features such as advanced entertainment systems, lavish interiors that rival top hotels, and energy-efficient designs. Custom coaches have truly adapted to the needs of the modern world.

The Promising Horizon for Custom Coaches

Gazing into the future, the prospects for custom coaches appear remarkably promising. They continue to metamorphose, attuning themselves to shifting consumer preferences and harnessing the latest technological breakthroughs.

Whether it entails the creation of electric buses to minimize environmental impact, developing luxury motorhomes equipped with seamless smart home integration, or crafting specialized commercial vehicles tailored for diverse industries, custom coaches remain a dynamic and flexible segment within the transportation realm.

In Conclusion: An Enduring Legacy

Custom coaches have an amazing history that showcases how humans have always been innovative and adaptable. Today, custom coaches are focusing on sustainability and innovation, which will help them remain a pivotal part of our ever-changing transportation system.

Their legacy is a testament to the spirit of progress that inspires us to make travel more comfortable, efficient, and eco-friendly for future generations.