Diamond Coach
2300 4th Street, Oswego, KS, USA
From Campers to Composite Buses: The Legacy of Diamond Coach
Diamond Coach stands as a remarkable example of long-term innovation and adaptability within the transportation industry. What began as a small-scale camper manufacturing operation in the 1950s has evolved into a respected name in composite bus production. The company’s journey reflects a consistent commitment to quality craftsmanship, forward-thinking design, and the ability to respond strategically to changing market demands.
Founded by Eldo J. “Bud” Coons and his brother, the business initially operated under the name Coons Custom Coach in Pomona, California. In 1957, Bud Coons expanded operations by establishing a branch in Oswego, Kansas, where the first “Dreamer Coach” camper was introduced in 1959. This early success laid the groundwork for future growth, positioning the company as an emerging innovator in recreational vehicle manufacturing.
Evolution, Leadership, and Market Transformation
As the company progressed into the 1960s, it expanded its capabilities through the acquisition of Scotsman Trailer Company in Coffeyville, Kansas, and began producing fiberglass motorhomes. By 1965, Diamond Coach introduced its first motorhome, marking a significant milestone. However, the economic pressures of the 1970s oil and gas crisis forced a strategic shift. Recognizing the need to adapt, the company diversified into bus manufacturing—an important pivot that would ultimately define its future.
Under new ownership in 1988 by Dick Seyboldt and Wayne Lowe, Diamond Coach entered a period of focused growth and refinement. By 1989, the company made the decisive move to exit the motorhome market entirely and concentrate on composite bus production. This strategic direction proved highly successful, establishing Diamond Coach as a leader in manufacturing durable, rust-resistant, and high-performing buses. Today, with a strong dealer network and headquarters in Oswego, Kansas, the company continues to build on its legacy of reliability, innovation, and customer-focused excellence.
The Diamond Difference and Modern-Day Excellence
Since its transition to exclusive bus manufacturing, Diamond Coach has distinguished itself through the production of advanced composite buses engineered for durability and long-term performance. These vehicles are designed to be rust-free and impact-resistant, offering operators a dependable solution with lower maintenance requirements and extended service life. With seating capacities typically ranging from 16 to 28 passengers, Diamond Coach buses deliver a smooth, quiet ride that enhances passenger comfort across a wide range of applications.
Today, Diamond Coach continues to serve diverse industries including healthcare, hospitality, senior living, and public transportation. Its vehicles are widely recognized for their strong resale value, operational efficiency, and consistent reliability in demanding environments. Supported by a nationwide network of independent dealers and backed by its parent organization, the B12 Transportation Group, the company remains committed to innovation, customer satisfaction, and maintaining its longstanding reputation for quality in the transportation sector.
