Party bus

A party bus (also known as a party ride, limo bus, limousine bus, party van, or luxury bus) is a large motor vehicle usually derived from a conventional bus or coach, but modified and designed to carry 10 or more people for recreational purposes. Party buses can often include music systems, on board bars and dancing poles. The basis for interior design of partybuses are usually lighting effects based on modern LED panels and lasers as well as specially designed, comfortable, most often leather chairs and a professional dance floor. The first vehicles of this type appeared in San Francisco and were quickly popularized in the United States and around the world.^[1]

Party bus interior view

Party bus exterior view

South Australia has age limit laws for buses with more than 13 seats allowing party bus operators to only use vehicles up to 25 years old.^[2]

The foundation of party buses typically starts with chassis from major automotive manufacturers:

Ford provides the most popular chassis platforms, particularly the E-350, E-450, and F-550 models. These chassis offer the power and durability needed for heavy party bus conversions.

Freightliner offers larger chassis options like the FL-70 and FL B70 models, which are commonly used for full-size party bus conversions.

Motor Coach Industries (MCI), Prevost, Van Hool, and TEMSA manufacture larger charter bus chassis that are often converted into high-capacity party buses.^[3]

Conversion Specialists

Several companies specialize in party bus conversions and custom builds:

Global Customs operates as a premier party bus conversion builder, offering conversions for 20-55 passenger buses. They provide both complete conversions and DIY kits, with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Their services include hybrid conversions that combine party bus features with executive seating.

Creative Coach Builders creates custom party buses with luxury features including removable dance poles, VIP rooms, dual air conditioning, and custom sound packages.

Custom Mobile Conversions (CMC) has built close to 200 party buses since 2008, offering various seating options, bar configurations, and entertainment systems. They focus on "party-proof" designs with separate kill switches for driver control.

Executive Coach Builders (ECB) has over 40 years of experience in luxury bus building, offering both complete coaches and custom conversions.

ELC Limo Designs specializes in custom party bus and limousine interiors, handling all fabrication in-house.

Grech Motors manufactures high-end luxury shuttle buses that serve as platforms for party bus conversions.

Party Bus Construction Process

Initial Preparation and Demolition

The conversion process begins with complete demolition of the existing bus interior. This includes removing all seats, ceiling panels, wall coverings, and flooring to create a blank canvas. The goal is to expose the underlying structure to assess for rust, corrosion, or damage that needs repair.

Structural Framework

Once gutted, builders install new steel or wood-framed seating structures arranged in perimeter configurations to maximize open floor space. The framework is designed to be "party-proof" and durable enough to withstand heavy use.

Electrical System Installation

Electrical work represents a crucial phase, involving installation of separate circuits for lighting, sound systems, and accessories. Professional builders install multiple kill switches accessible to drivers for controlling passenger area electronics. LED lighting systems are wired throughout, including color-changing strips in ceilings, walls, and seat backs.

Plumbing Installation

Plumbing systems are added for wet bars, sinks, and restroom facilities. This includes fresh water tanks, gray water collection, and associated pumps and lines. Many party buses feature mini-bars with sinks, ice machines, and refrigeration units.

Interior Finishing

The final phase involves installing upholstered seating, typically using leather or vinyl materials in diamond-pleated patterns. Flooring ranges from hardwood to specialized dance floor materials. Ceilings receive custom treatments including lighted panels and acoustic materials.

See also

• Customised buses
• Limousine
• List of buses
• Vehicle for hire