Mercedes Benz

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Stuttgart, Germany, Sep 03, 2008

World premiere: Mercedes-Benz Travego the new generation with Active Brake Assist [TEXT 1]

* New Active Brake Assist actively helps prevent rear-end collisions
* Installation of assistance systems reduces insurance costs
* New: Front Collision Guard passive safety system
* Travego sets safety standards
* All-new cockpit design geared even more towards the driver
* Six-cylinder in-line engine with additional output rating
* New: Mercedes PowerShift eight-speed automated transmission
* Chassis: new trailing axle with independent wheel suspension
* New interior, monitors with 19-inch screen diagonal


Safety is the most important of the Mercedes-Benz brand values. And, as such, it is the focus of the new-generation Mercedes-Benz Travego high-deck touring coach, which marks the world premiere of the Active Brake Assist (ABA) system in the bus and coach sector. Further new equipment for the Travego includes the patented Front Collision Guard (FCG) passive safety system, which provides effective protection for the driver and co-driver in the event of a frontal impact. Plus there are further safety features such as the cornering light function, a rain/light sensor, long-life LED corner marker lights above the windscreen, a trailing axle with independent wheel suspension for the three-axle models and the optional chassis pitch and roll control system. Awaiting the driver is a new-look, user-friendly cockpit. As an option, the OM 457 LA six-cylinder in-line engine can be ordered with a new, higher output rating of 335 kW (456 hp). Further special equipment available for the latest incarnation of the Travego includes the new Mercedes GO 240-8 PowerShift eight-speed automated transmission. All of which makes this particular Mercedes-Benz one of the most attractive high-deck touring coaches ever seen.

New Active Brake Assist actively helps prevent rear-end collisions

Active Brake Assist has won a number of awards and, more importantly, actively helps to prevent rear-end collisions. It can therefore save lives. Since it was launched in the Mercedes-Benz Actros heavy-duty truck in 2006, Active Brake Assist, also known as emergency braking assist, has proven a resounding success, having clocked up a combined total of more than 350 million kilometres on the road for our customers. Now it is set to celebrate its world premiere in the bus and coach sector – in the new-generation Mercedes-Benz Travego. If Active Brake Assist detects an acute risk of a rear-end collision with a slower-moving vehicle in front, it initiates emergency braking following intermittent warnings. If the coach comes to a stop during emergency braking, the hazard warning lights are automatically activated.
Active Brake Assist is based on DISTRONIC, which has been available as an option for the Mercedes-Benz Travego for several years. It uses the DISTRONIC radar sensor which, in turn, is able to detect obstacles moving within a defined range in front of the vehicle by means of its three radar beams. The distance to and the relative speed of the vehicle in front are monitored and assessed on a permanent basis.
If the traffic situation remains unchanged and there is a risk of a collision, a progressive series of warnings comes into play. Firstly the driver receives a visual warning in the shape of an illuminated red triangle with the outline of a vehicle on the instrument panel along with an audible alarm signal that gradually becomes louder. If the risk of a collision becomes more acute, partial braking is initiated. The technology used in this instance takes account of the occupants on board by increasing the braking pressure smoothly. If the driver fails to respond, the system finally applies the full braking power of its own accord. If DISTRONIC is ordered, Active Brake Assist is delivered with it at no extra cost.

Installation of assistance systems reduces insurance costs

Buses and coaches fitted with Active Brake Assist receive a five-percent discount on liability and fully comprehensive insurance from Mercedes-Benz Bank AG. Buses and coaches fitted with Lane Assistant and DISTRONIC also receive a five-percent discount. If all three assistance systems are installed, a ten-percent discount is granted.

Reduction in collision speed and accident severity

Although Active Brake Assist cannot always prevent accidents, the application of the brakes with full power can at least significantly reduce the collision speed and, therefore, the severity of the accident.

The system uses a series of progressive warnings to alert the driver in advance, allowing the driver to then manoeuvre the vehicle or apply the brakes, if possible, in order to avoid a collision. Even though rear-end collisions are not the most frequent type of accident involving buses and coaches, they are among the most serious. The developers expect Active Brake Assist to bring about a reduction in the number of these accidents involving fatalities or serious injuries. During development of this system, the focus was on ensuring protection for other road users as well as for the vehicle occupants. Active Brake Assist for buses and coaches sees Mercedes-Benz taking a further step towards realising its vision of accident-free driving.

Travego: exemplary safety right from the start

Since its premiere in 1999, the Mercedes-Benz Travego has earned itself an enviable reputation as a commendably safe touring coach featuring an extensive range of safety equipment. Right from the start, the standard-equipment package has included the Electronic Braking System (EBS) with internally ventilated disc brakes all round, the anti-lock braking system (ABS), acceleration skid control (ASR) and a wear-free retarder as an auxiliary brake. The flawlessly ergonomically designed cockpit with a joystick-style shift lever also set new standards.

In the ensuing years, a whole host of safety components – including the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), DISTRONIC, Lane Assistant, the Continuous Braking Limiter and Brake Assist (BA) – made their debuts in the Travego, allowing it to build on its commanding lead in the safety stakes. All of these developments lead to the unveiling of the Safety Coach demonstration vehicle, equipped with all of the relevant safety features available at the time, in 2006. With Active Brake Assist, the Travego has set another milestone in the development of bus and coach safety.

New: Front Collision Guard passive safety system

The same applies to numerous other innovations that feature in the new-generation Travego. The Front Collision Guard (FCG) is a unique, complex passive safety system designed to protect the driver and tour guide in the event of a frontal impact. Its components include a transverse profile which acts as an underride guard for the protection of other road users and can prevent a car, for example, from driving underneath the coach. Behind this profile is a structure consisting of crash elements, which absorb energy in a predetermined manner in the event of an impact.
In addition, the driver's area in the Travego – including the steering, pedals and seat – is now mounted on a solid frame section that can slide downwards in its entirety in the event of a serious frontal impact and, therefore, increase the driver’s space by several crucial centimetres. As well as testing the effect of the Front Collision Guard system using computer simulations, the developers have also put it through its paces in several crash tests under real-life conditions. The FCG also complies with future statutory standards for bus and coach pendulum impact tests. Together with Active Brake Assist, which can reduce the collision speed dramatically in the event of an unavoidable frontal collision, the FCG provides the driver and tour guide with an unparalleled high standard of safety.

Travego sets safety standards

A wealth of other details enhance the exemplary level of safety provided by the Mercedes-Benz Travego even further still: the new cornering light function is activated when the driver indicates to turn and moves the steering wheel, providing the speed is below 40 km/h, in which case the fog lamp on the side of the inner wheel illuminates a wide area of the road to the side of the vehicle as well as in front of it.

The new rain/light sensor activates the windscreen wipers when they are needed and also selects a suitable wipe interval and wipe speed. Additionally, the sensor switches on the headlamps if the light outside is poor. This function is active when the light switch is in position "A" (Automatic).
Further safety aspects include the use of LEDs as corner marker lights above the windscreen. These are designed to last the entire vehicle lifetime and make it virtually impossible to inadvertently drive the vehicle without the required lighting. Previously Travego models have already featured LED side marker lights. After the driver leaves the Travego and activates the central locking, the new "follow‑me‑home" light function and the fog lamps illuminate the area in front of the vehicle for several seconds to help them find their way safely.

The face of the Travego: front bumper sporting a new design

The introduction of the new-generation Mercedes-Benz Travego marks a series of subtle changes to the exterior, including a front end that is 40-mm longer due to the addition of the Front Collision Guard system. The Travego is instantly recognisable by its new front bumper with a prominent swage line and a distinctive recess at the position of the number plate. The form of the new-look bumper corners and the newly designed, integral fog lamps emphasise the Travego's dynamism.
A bonded windscreen further adds to the elegance of the Travego's front end as it allows the rubber-strip surround to be dispensed with. In addition, the bonded screen helps to further reduce wind noise and improve aerodynamics.

All-new cockpit design geared even more towards the driver

Whereas the previous Travego cockpit incorporating a joystick-style gearshift marked a milestone in the design of the driver's area in buses and coaches, the cockpit for the new-generation Travego marks a further major step forwards. It boasts an all-new design, geared even more towards the driver, along with a series of curved and rounded forms that make for an exceptionally ergonomic workplace offering maximum appeal. The instrument panel, centre console and area in front of the tour guide's seat with an integral refrigerator appear to merge together seamlessly whilst the cockpit as a whole now gives an even stronger impression of completeness and outstanding quality.

The instrument panel is positioned centrally within the driver's field of vision. Both the speedometer and the rev counter are large dial-type gauges sporting a 3-D look and chrome surrounds. They flank a large colour display on which a vast range of data – from fluid and air levels to trip-computer information – can be shown. It is operated via keys on the new four-spoke multifunction steering wheel. Navigating the menus is easy and intuitive, as in Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. Similarly, the telephone, hands-free system and basic functions of the audio system can be operated almost effortlessly using the buttons on the steering wheel. An easy-grip leather steering wheel is part of the standard specification.

Ergonomically optimised shift lever and controls

The joystick-style shift lever boasts a new shape and is trimmed with a chrome ring. What's more, its installation position has been ergonomically optimised. Above the shift lever, positioned directly in the driver's field of vision on the right-hand side of the instrument panel, there is a permanently-installed navigation screen.
The control consoles for the audio and video system, heating, ventilation and air conditioning are now located at the top of the centre console, while the digital tachograph, positioned within easy reach of the driver and in their direct line of vision, can also be found here. All of the control buttons have been moved to their optimum positions as part of the new design. These changes mean that there is now even more stowage space available at the bottom of the centre console with its new, curved design.

Six-cylinder in-line engine with additional output rating

The new-generation Travego also incorporates an optimised powertrain with a perfectly matched combination of engine, transmission and driven axle supplied from a single source. An additional engine variant has been added to the line-up in the shape of the Mercedes-Benz OM 457 LA six-cylinder in-line unit with a displacement of 12.0 litres, an output of 335 kW (456 hp) and an impressive torque of 2200 Nm at 1100 rpm. This powerplant ensures outstandingly capable performance under all conditions and, thanks to proven BlueTec engine technology, is also exceptionally economical. It can be ordered as a Euro 4 or Euro 5 version.

With its harmonious power delivery and impressive pulling power, this engine is ideal for pairing with a long overall ratio. Hence the Travego is equipped with the new Mercedes GO 240-8 PowerShift automated manual transmission with a standard axle ratio of i=3.909 at the motorway speed of 100 km/h at just 1300 rpm. This set-up minimises fuel consumption and, therefore, exhaust emissions whilst also further reducing noise emissions.

New: Mercedes eight-speed automated transmission

The new Mercedes-Benz GO 240-8 PowerShift eight-speed automated transmission has been purpose-developed for installation in buses and coaches, making it the only specialist bus and coach transmission in its performance class, reflected by an extremely compact and lightweight design. What's more, the dimensions of the transmission's aluminium housing are identical to those of the six-speed manual transmission, which is still available, making installation much easier. There is no need for a clutch pedal with this transmission. With comparable performance, use of the PowerShift transmission on typical routes brings about a significant reduction in fuel consumption compared to a vehicle fitted with one of the more conventional automated transmissions available on the market.

Ideal ratio spread thanks to progressive gear-ratio steps

With eight speeds and a large gear-ratio spread (1st-gear ratio 6.57, 8th gear 0.63), the transmission covers the entire spectrum from precise manoeuvring at inching speed to low and fuel-saving rpm at motorway speed. In contrast to other transmissions in this performance class, the GO 240-8 PowerShift transmission's gear-ratio steps are progressive, ensuring near-perfect power link-up both when upshifting to accelerate and when downshifting on uphill inclines.
Second gear is used as the starting gear on the flat. The transmission ratios have been optimised to suit bus and coach operation, meaning that it is not normally necessary to skip gears. The gear changes themselves are smooth and swift whilst the transmission's control unit responds quickly to changes in topography or load requirements.

Easy to use, with manual mode if required

The automated transmission is extremely easy to use. Usually the driver will opt for automatic mode, although they can intervene manually at any time simply by nudging the shift lever forwards or backwards. In this case, the transmission remains in automatic mode. Pushing the shift lever to one side is all that it takes to engage manual mode, enabling the driver to change gear whenever required, providing this is technically feasible.

Wide choice of engines and transmissions

The new-generation Travego features the same proven powertrain components as its predecessor. As before, the OM 457 LA engine with a displacement of 12.0 litres, an output of 315 kW (428 hp) and a peak torque of 2100 Nm now comes as standard. Additionally there is the Mercedes-Benz OM 457 LA 6-cylinder in-line engine with a displacement of 12.0 litres, 335 kW (456 hp) and a torque of 2200 Nm. There is also the option of the OM 502 LA V8 powerplant with a displacement of 15.9 litres, an output of 350 kW (476 hp) and a maximum torque 2100 Nm, should extra power be needed. All of the engines are available as Euro 4 or Euro 5 versions.

As for the transmission, the Travego comes as standard with a six-speed manual unit in the shape of the GO 210-6 or GO 230-6 with joystick-style gearshift. Special equipment includes the new Mercedes GO 240-8 PowerShift eight-speed automated transmission. Meanwhile, the economical and quiet-running Mercedes‑Benz HO6 hypoid rear axle comes with a choice of ratios, allowing a perfect powertrain configuration every time.

Chassis: new trailing axle with independent wheel suspension

Major new features have also been incorporated into the chassis for the new-generation Mercedes-Benz Travego. Here too, the Travego sets new standards in terms of comfort and handling dynamics. One of the focal points of the three-axle models is the new trailing axle with independent wheel suspension, whose advantages include improved track guidance, smoother suspension characteristics thanks to lower unsprung masses, extra installation space and a design that is around 150-kg lighter due in part to the axle design and electronic control of the still hydraulically actively steered axle.

All variants of the Travego benefit from modified front-axle mountings that are even more effective at preventing thumping noises. What's more, the axle is more smoothly sprung yet loses none of its edge in terms of track guidance or damping properties. And the familiar direct road feel provided by the steering remains intact. Standard equipment for the Travego now also includes electronic level control.

Optional pitch and roll control system further optimises handling characteristics
Another new feature of the Travego chassis is the pitch and roll control system, now available as special equipment. Whereas the characteristic curve for a conventional shock absorber always produces a compromise between safety and comfort as well as between an unladen and laden vehicle, the pitch and roll control system ensures continuously variable control of the shock absorber characteristics as a function of the driving situation and the vehicle load. To this end, the vehicle's CAN bus provides the control unit with information about the driver's actions and the vehicle load, while position sensors on the axles supply data relating to the vehicle's movements. Having gathered all of these data, the control unit then calculates the optimal parameters for each axle and adjusts the shock absorber characteristics accordingly within a fraction of a second.

This process results in enhanced safety thanks to tauter damping when braking, cornering at speed or driving on poor road surfaces. In other driving situations, as well as on flat roads, softer damping ensures greater comfort. Furthermore, the rolling, pitching and lifting movements of the body – which are typical of high-deck touring coaches due to their large overhangs and high centre of gravity – are compensated for more quickly. In addition, the less pronounced fluctuations in the pressure exerted by the wheels on the road surface help to keep roads in good condition, while the driver gets the benefit of improved handling.

New interior monitors with 19-inch screen diagonal

The new-generation Mercedes-Benz Travego is more comfortable than ever, not least thanks to large monitors with a 19-inch screen diagonal, which afford passengers an unhindered view of films or television programmes from any seat. In addition to this, the ceiling and the luggage racks have been redesigned to further boost their visual appeal and reduce their weight.

The model year 2009 range

Like its forerunner, the range of new-generation Travego models comprises three high-deck touring coaches: the Travego (two axles, 12.18-metres long), the Travego M (three axles, 13.0-metres long) and the Travego L (three axles, 14.03-metres long).

The Mercedes-Benz Travego at the 2008 International Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover

At the 2008 International Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover, the Mercedes‑Benz Bus and Coach unit will be unveiling the Travego's many new features as a world premiere in the shape of a three-axle Travego M model measuring 13 metres in length. The vehicle is equipped with alloy wheels, DISTRONIC, Lane Assistant, Travel Star Xtra seats with Luxline leather upholstery, a galley, an on-board toilet and a digital-television receiver coupled with 19-inch monitors. The diamond-white paint finish reflects the latest trend in passenger-car colours.

In addition to this, the show stand also features models and exhibits highlighting the functions of new safety systems such as Active Brake Assist and the Front Collision Guard. Visitors can see how Active Brake Assist functions for themselves on working models. Those visiting the show wanting a close-up view of the new-generation Mercedes-Benz Travego with all of its safety systems can experience the vehicle live in a nearby testing area.

Travego safety coach: number one for safety technology [TEXT 2]
* Integral safety concept from the Mercedes-Benz Bus and Coach unit
* Extensive safety equipment right from the start
* ESP introduced as standard at an early stage
* Autonomous Intelligent Cruise Control maintains a set distance
* Lane Assistant issues lane departure warnings
* Continuous braking limiter for safe downhill driving at a constant speed
* World premiere: new Active Brake Assist actively helps to prevent head-to-tail collisions
* Installation of assistance systems reduces insurance costs
* New: Front Collision Guard passive safety system

Safety and buses – two words that are inextricably linked. It is a proven fact that the risk of a fatal accident is many times higher when travelling by rail, in the air or in a car. Daimler's research and development activities are geared towards ensuring the highest possible level of safety, whether it be in passenger cars, vans, trucks, buses or coaches. Since its first appearance back in 1999, the Mercedes‑Benz Travego has distinguished itself as an exceptionally safe touring coach. Both its body design – based on extremely robust reinforcements stretching across the roof and down the sides – as well as its dynamic chassis and standard-fit safety equipment have set the benchmark from the very beginning. Now the new-generation Travego – equipped with Active Brake Assist (ABA) and Front Collision Guard (FCG) – has raised the bar once again when it comes to both active and passive safety.

Integral safety concept from the Mercedes-Benz Bus and Coach unit

For the Mercedes-Benz Bus and Coach unit, safety is a comprehensive, integral concept rather than a series of individual measures. The claim that stems from this approach could not be clearer: as a premium brand, Mercedes-Benz fulfils the most stringent of safety requirements and is forging ahead with its development activities across the board in the field of safety. The integral safety concept comprises numerous modules, with the focus on a number of vehicle- and application-specific safety innovations, the aim being to enhance active and passive safety on an ongoing basis. This concept is bolstered by a wealth of further measures such as driver training, in which drivers are taught how to recognise danger in plenty of time and avoid risks. They are also shown how to react correctly in the event of an accident. The concept also involves informing passengers of how to use the on-board safety equipment – starting with the key aspect of putting on their seat belts; it goes far beyond this, however, and also includes responsible vehicle maintenance and the use of tried-and-tested genuine parts when the vehicle comes in for a service. The aim of the integral safety concept is an ambitious one: to realise the vision of accident-free driving.

Extensive safety equipment right from the start

The Mercedes-Benz Travego – a premium touring coach showcasing the very latest safety developments – is the perfect example of how this theory is put into practice. Right from the very start, its standard-equipment package included an electronic braking system (EBS) with internally ventilated disc brakes on all axles, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), acceleration skid control (ASR) and a wear-free retarder as an auxiliary brake. Powerful headlamps and fog lamps were also specified as standard. And the ergonomically designed cockpit featuring a joystick-type shift lever, together with exterior mirrors offering exceptional visibility, set new standards – after all, operational safety is just as important as any other kind of safety.

Equally the dynamic yet comfort-oriented suspension and the touring coach's out­standing handling – with each variant boasting a surprisingly small turning circle – set the standards for others to follow from the very beginning. Like all modern Mercedes-Benz buses and coaches, the Travego met the requirements for roll-over resistance in accordance with ECE R 66 before this standard had even come into force. Special equipment available to complement the standard safety package included extremely powerful gas discharge lamps (Litronic headlamps), a reversing aid and exterior mirrors with a "reversing pilot" function.

ESP introduced as standard at an early stage

Daimler was the first bus and coach manufacturer to offer the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) back in April 2002, when it was introduced as special equipment for the Mercedes-Benz Travego. It became standard for all Travego models soon afterwards in October 2003. ESP is a dynamic handling control system that operates up to the limits of physical possibility to reduce the risk of skidding by a significant margin. Based on information such as the turning angle of the front wheels, the vehicle speed and the lateral acceleration, a sensor detects potentially dangerous driving situations. To avoid danger, the engine torque is reduced and, following this, individual wheels are braked by precisely the right amount to prevent dangerous instability.

At the same time, Mercedes-Benz introduced Brake Assist (BA), which detects emergency braking situations based on the speed with which the brake pedal is pressed and provides much higher braking power instantaneously in order to shorten the braking distance and, therefore, help to prevent accidents.

2004: a glimpse of the near future

In 2004 Mercedes-Benz unveiled three all-new safety systems as world premieres in a Travego concept vehicle: Autonomous Intelligent Cruise Control (AICC), Lane Assistant and the continuous braking limiter.

Autonomous Intelligent Cruise Control maintains a set distance

Autonomous Intelligent Cruise Control makes the driver's job easier on motorways and major roads. If AICC detects a slower-moving vehicle in front, it brakes the bus automatically until the safety distance pre-programmed by the driver is achieved and then maintains this distance. To this end, the area in front of the vehicle is scanned at 50-millisecond intervals by a distance sensor which uses three radar beams to measure the distance to and relative speed of the vehicle in front.
AICC can measure the relative speed to an accuracy of 0.7 km/h. If there are no vehicles in front, it works like a conventional cruise control system. In the main, Autonomous Intelligent Cruise Control assists the driver in medium to heavy traffic on major roads, taking control of the vast majority of adaptive-braking tasks, although deceleration is limited to around 20 percent of the maximum braking power.
The distance to the vehicle in front set by the AICC depends on the vehicle speed and can be indicated as a percentage of the speed shown on the speedometer. The AICC default distance setting can be around 60 percent of the speed indicated on the speedometer, for example (i.e. if the speed is 100 km/h, the distance setting is 60 km), although the driver can increase or reduce this distance by defined amounts, as and when required.

At the heart of the AICC system is a distance radar mounted in the centre of the vehicle, which switches continuously between three radar beams that are emitted by the system. These are arranged so as to ensure that the lanes on the left, on the right and in the centre are monitored (with one beam covering the left-hand side of the vehicle, one the right-hand side of the vehicle and one the centre area directly in front of the vehicle).

Lane Assistant issues lane departure warnings

The Lane Assistant uses a camera system behind the windscreen to detect when there is a risk of the vehicle leaving its lane, continuously monitoring the distance between the vehicle and the marker lines at the edge of the lane. If the vehicle crosses the marker line by the width of a tyre, the side of the driver's seat concerned starts to vibrate to warn the driver. The Lane Assistant is not activated until the vehicle exceeds a speed of 70 km/h and is deactivated when the driver indicates, for example to signal an intention to change lanes.

Continuous braking limiter for safe downhill driving at a constant speed
The third new system to be introduced in 2004 was the continuous braking limiter, which brakes the vehicle by means of the retarder when the statutory downhill speed limit of 100 km/h, for example, is exceeded. It is therefore practically impossible to exceed the speed limit inadvertently when driving downhill.
In just a short time, the concept study was phased into production – when Mercedes‑Benz introduced the continuous braking limiter as standard for the Travego in 2005. Autonomous Intelligent Cruise Control soon became available as special equipment, while the third safety system – Lane Assistant – has been available as an option since 2006.

Safety Coach of the Year 2006

All of these developments lead to the unveiling of the Safety Coach demonstration vehicle, based on the Travego, in 2006. The world's safest touring coach, as the experts put it, combined all of the key safety technologies available at the time. Yet development of safety systems continued unabated at Mercedes-Benz – culminating in further pioneering innovations for the new-generation Travego in the summer of 2008.

These developments for the Travego mark the continuation of a long and illustrious tradition. In the early 1980s, the strength of Mercedes-Benz bus and coach bodies was demonstrated in initial roll-over tests. By 1981 Mercedes-Benz had already introduced the anti-lock braking system (ABS), followed four years later by the first automated transmission and, in 1986, by acceleration skid control (ASR). Further advances came in 1997 with the introduction of the electronic braking system (EBS) and CAN databus networking for buses and coaches. EBS reduced the brake response time and now enables ideal distribution of the braking force. At the same time, the pedal feel was brought on a par with passenger-car levels for the first time, making the brakes far more responsive to driver input. EBS is also a pre-requisite for the electronic safety systems which premiered shortly after the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz Travego.

World premiere: new Active Brake Assist actively helps to prevent head-to-tail collisions

Active Brake Assist (ABA) has won several awards and, more importantly, actively helps to prevent head-to-tail collisions and, therefore, can save lives. Since it was launched in the Mercedes-Benz Actros heavy-duty truck in 2006, it has proven a resounding success, having clocked up a combined total of more than 350 million kilometres on the road. Now it is set to celebrate its world premiere in the bus and coach sector – in the new-generation Mercedes-Benz Travego. If Active Brake Assist detects an acute risk of a head-to-tail collision with a slower-moving vehicle in front, it emits a series of warnings before initiating emergency braking.
Active Brake Assist is based on Autonomous Intelligent Cruise Control (AICC), which has been available as an option for the Mercedes-Benz Travego for several years. It uses the AICC radar sensor which, in turn, is able to detect obstacles moving within a defined range in front of the vehicle by means of its three radar beams. The distance to and the relative speed of the vehicle in front are monitored and assessed on a permanent basis.

If the traffic situation remains unchanged and there is a risk of a collision, a progressive series of warnings comes into play. Firstly the driver receives a visual warning in the shape of an illuminated red triangle with the outline of a vehicle on the instrument panel along with an audible alarm signal that gradually becomes louder. If the risk of a collision becomes more acute and the driver has still failed to react, partial braking is initiated. The technology used in this instance takes account of the occupants on board by increasing the braking pressure smoothly. If the driver still fails to respond, the system finally applies the full braking power of its own accord.
To warn the traffic behind, the brake lights are switched on fully during partial braking or start to flash during emergency braking. If the vehicle comes to a halt following emergency braking, the hazard warning lights come on automatically. If AICC is ordered, Active Brake Assist is supplied at no extra charge.

Installation of assistance systems reduces insurance costs

Buses or coaches equipped with Active Brake Assist receive a five-percent discount on third-part liability insurance and fully comprehensive insurance purchased from Mercedes-Benz Bus and Coach Insurance through Mercedes-Benz Bank AG. Likewise, buses and coaches fitted with the Lane Assistant and Autonomous Intelligent Cruise Control receive a five-percent discount. If all three assistance systems are specified, a ten-percent discount is applied.

Reduction in collision speed and accident severity

Although Active Brake Assist cannot always prevent accidents, the application of the brakes can at least significantly reduce the collision speed and, therefore, the severity of the accident.
The system uses a series of progressive warnings to alert the driver in advance, allowing the driver to then manoeuvre the vehicle or apply the brakes in order to avoid a collision. Even though head-to-tail accidents involving buses and coaches are a rare occurrence, they are among the most serious of accident types. The developers expect Active Brake Assist to bring about a reduction in the number of these accidents involving fatalities or serious injuries. Active Brake Assist for buses and coaches sees Mercedes-Benz taking a further step towards realising its vision of accident-free driving.

New: Front Collision Guard passive safety system

The same applies to numerous other innovations that feature in the new-generation Travego. Front Collision Guard (FCG) is a unique, complex passive safety system designed to protect the driver and tour guide in the event of a frontal impact. Its components include a transverse profile which acts as an underride guard for the protection of other road users and can prevent a car, for example, from driving underneath the bus. The frame behind this profile consists of crash elements which absorb energy in a predetermined manner in the event of an impact.

In addition, the driver's area in the Travego – including the steering, pedals and seat – is now mounted on a solid frame section that can slide downwards in its entirety in the event of a serious frontal impact and, therefore, increase the occupants' survival space by several crucial centimetres. As well as testing the effect of the Front Collision Guard system using computer simulations, the developers have also put it through its paces in several crash tests under real-life conditions. FCG also complies with future statutory standards for bus and coach pendulum impact tests.

Together with Active Brake Assist, which can reduce the collision speed dramatically in the event of an unavoidable frontal collision, FCG provides the driver and tour guide with an unparalleled high standard of safety.

Driver training for bus and coach drivers [TEXT 3]
* 15 years of safety training
* Aim: to learn how to detect risks, avoid dangers and react correctly
* Certified training courses enable participants to "experience" safety first‑hand
* School-bus training for drivers and pupils
* Book training online at the click of a mouse

When it comes to safe bus and coach travel, the onus is very much on the driver. This is why, for the past 15 years, the Mercedes-Benz Bus and Coach unit, through its Omniplus service brand, has organised training courses for bus and coach drivers across Europe. Since the scheme was launched in March 1993, the number of bus and coach drivers who have benefitted from the training provided by Mercedes‑Benz and Setra has reached five figures. And this total is set to increase further now that Europe has introduced regulations governing professional drivers' qualifications – a development that has lead Omniplus to further extend the range of training courses it offers.

Aim: to learn how to detect risks, avoid dangers and react correctly

Safety is a crucial factor on the road, especially in the public-transport domain. This is why one of the main stated aims of the safety training courses organised by Omniplus is to teach drivers how to avoid dangerous situations – so that, as far as possible, the numerous safety systems on board Mercedes-Benz buses and coaches do not even need to be called into action. Should a dangerous situation nevertheless arise whilst driving, the driver needs to be able to react correctly and deal with the situation in a professional manner.

The safety training programme, conducted under the supervision of experienced bus and coach driving trainers, therefore tackles the issue from three angles: detecting risks, avoiding dangers and reacting correctly should a dangerous situation nonetheless occur. By way of example, the practical part of the course involves becoming more aware of the vehicle dimensions in various handling exercises, braking and evasive manoeuvres on various road surfaces at different speeds and performing braking and steering manoeuvres when cornering, also at different speeds.

To ensure greater safety when driving touring coaches, drivers also receive detailed information about how vehicle safety systems – such as the brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Autonomous Intelligent Cruise Control (AICC), acceleration skid control (ASR), Brake Assist (BA) and the Lane Assistant – work and how they can be put to the best use.

Certified training courses enable participants to "experience" safety first-hand

Participation in safety training is also one of the key requirements specified in the regulations governing professional drivers' qualifications, which have now attained statutory status in Europe. When renewing their driving licences, bus and coach drivers involved in commercial passenger transport will in future have to provide evidence that they have completed a total of 35 hours of advanced training within a five-year period. To this end, Omniplus offers certified training courses, including safety training.

Omniplus safety training is based on a progressive approach. The programme ranges from a one-day intensive course held at the bus company's premises (Basic Safety Training) or at one of a number of driving safety centres including the Hockenheimring (Basic Plus Safety Training) to a comprehensive driving training course staged over two-and-a-half days at a driving safety centre (Premium Safety Training). Premium Safety Training also incorporates modules focussing on how to respond in the case of a breakdown, accident or fire and on driver fitness, including back and shoulder exercises as well as advice on what to eat. Drivers attending the training courses are provided with Mercedes-Benz training vehicles, although they are free to use their own vehicles if they so wish.

School-bus training for drivers and pupils

Further courses on offer include school-bus training for drivers and for school classes. Depending on the type and scope of the course, the training takes place in stationary safety centres, at the bus company's premises or even at the school itself. All of the courses comprise a theory module and an essential practical module that enables the participants to experience safety first-hand.

In addition, the Omniplus driver training experts offer numerous other courses and advanced-training events for bus and coach drivers. Eco-Training is a one-day course in which participants learn, in both theory and practice, how a different way of driving can help to reduce fuel consumption by more than ten percent. Special bus and coach technology training courses help bus and coach drivers to better understand the complex combination of technical features in their own vehicles and teach them how to make the most of these features on a daily basis. Furthermore, special communication training courses are offered to show drivers how best to deal with passengers.

Copyright © 2008, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.