Internet access, the convenient LINGUATRONIC voice control system, two navigation solutions tailored to different budgets, connection for mobile audio devices and an intuitive operating concept – the information and communication systems in the B-Class offers excellent user-friendliness and a superior level of functionality which has been the reserve of higher categories of vehicle to date. These standards are delivered by the new multimedia generation from Mercedes-Benz, which was premiered only this summer in the C-Class Coupé and the facelifted C-Class. The operating concept featuring the turn/push control in front of the armrest and the control knob on the head unit is also familiar from other Mercedes model series. Individual functions are operated by means of the steering wheel: the standard multifunction steering wheel comes with 12 function buttons.


A special feature in the B-Class is the positioning of the colour screens with a diagonal of up to 17.8 cm, which are installed in free-standing configuration at the top of the dashboard, above the central air vents. The aerials are distributed invisibly throughout the vehicle: an integrated AM/FM aerial and a GPS antenna is fitted under the roof spoiler in front of the rear window, an additional aerial for FM is integrated in the rear window structure and even the telephone aerial is concealed in the rear spoiler.

Overview of the various devices and their functions

The standard specification includes the Audio 20 CD system with a twin tuner, mp3-capable CD player and a USB connector in the centre console. The colour display has a diagonal of 147 mm. Thanks to a new "Cover Art" function, the title images of the music albums currently being played are shown if their details are stored in the audio file.

A new top line in the Audio 20 CD’s menu navigation makes orientation easier and can be operated via the controller. The settings for the air conditioning are also displayed on the telematics screen (when in use), as is the fuel consumption over the past 15 minutes. The Bluetooth functions have also been extended: the mobile’s phone book can now be automatically transferred en bloc when connected, and wireless music reproduction is possible from Bluetooth-capable terminals. Plus text messages can also be displayed. As an optional extra the Audio 20 CD can be combined with a 6-disc CD changer, Media Interface, sound amplifier (please see below for details), Convenience Telephony in the armrest, digital radio (DAB) and the new Becker® MAP PILOT entry-level navigation solution.

The Becker® MAP PILOT makes a low-cost navigation function, which can also be retrofitted, available for the entry-level Audio 20 CD radio. Its advantages over aftermarket solutions include integrated operation via the central controls, voice output via the vehicle's loudspeakers and display on the Audio 20 screen, a concealed location in the glove compartment and updating via an internet portal.

The COMAND Online multimedia system offers internet access. Customers can either surf the web as they wish while the car is stationary or call up a Mercedes-Benz app whose particularly fast page loading and simple operation make it suitable for use while driving. Integrated apps include Google™ Local Search and Weather and the facility for downloading a route which has previously been configured on a PC using Google Maps and transmitted to the car. Apps for Google™ Streetview and Google™ Panoramio will be available for COMAND Online from the autumn. Streetview enables locations all over the world to be seen in 360-degree perspective views and at street level. Panoramio allows access to millions of photographs which have been taken and uploaded by other uses at locations all around the globe. Streetview and Panoramio thus provide comprehensive means of studying routes and checking out sights and destinations before embarking on a journey.
More Mercedes-Benz apps will be introduced gradually and then all customers will be able to use them. Telephones which can be used with COMAND Online apps are listed at www.mercedes-benz.com/connect

The high-resolution colour display has a diagonal of 17.8 cm. Photos can be shown on the large screen and turned over manually, as in a slide show. Where the audio equipment is concerned, too, new types of representation bring a fresh look and more convenient operation. The new Cover Flow function, for instance, sorts the title images of the music albums stored in a carousel-like form, so that the B-Class driver can easily leaf through their music collection – even if it is rather on the large side: the memory for compressed audio files (mp3, wma and aac formats) is now 10 GB in size.

Greatest convenience is afforded by the Music Search function, which enables drivers and passengers to search the hard disc, SD memory cards, USB sticks, CDs and DVDs for specific music tracks and artists. The search can be according to various criteria, for instance album, music category or composer. If a name needs to be entered, the software will also tolerate spelling mistakes. The driver is therefore able to devote their full attention to the traffic. As a further advantage, the occupants are able to search all the connected media and devices simultaneously.

The fast hard-disc navigation system of COMAND Online also has added functions. New features include a 3D display with three-dimensional city views. Also new: routes covered can be recorded and repeated later, specific personal destinations can be imported via an SD card and four alternative routes can be displayed on the navigation map, one of them a particularly economical variation. Mercedes-Benz customers in Europe receive the current maps for their COMAND Online multimedia system free of charge for three years. Authorised Mercedes-Benz dealers upload the updates for navigation data in 39 European countries into the navigation system when the customer visits their premises.

In Europe, COMAND Online also comprises Speed Limit Assist, which receives its information for traffic sign recognition via a camera and navigation database. COMAND Online also includes the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system for audio, telephone and navigation. The new "One Shot" input function for the navigation system is particularly convenient, whereby the place and road can be said directly after one another. This function is currently available in seven languages and significantly enhances ease of operation.

Mercedes-Benz developed the “Logic7” surround sound system together with the audio specialist harman/kardon®. Based on technology never before seen in a car, this high-end system delivers three-dimensional sound as a natural 360-degree musical experience for all passengers. The audio signals are distributed via a 450-watt 9-channel DSP amplifier connected to twelve high-performance loudspeakers. In conjunction with COMAND Online a multi-channel listening experience with Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS is possible.

The Media Interface is available as an optional extra. The universal interface under the armrest enables mobile audio devices such as mp3 players or iPods to be connected to the vehicle's telematics system. These devices are then operated via the head unit or the multifunction steering wheel. Depending on the mp3 player in use, it is possible to recharge the device's battery via the vehicle's on-board electrical system. When the song title/artist and album name are available, these can be shown on the display.

The B-Class provides its drivers with comprehensive support and protection by means of numerous driving assistance systems, from drowsiness detection with ATTENTION ASSIST to proximity control with DISTRONIC PLUS. These assistance systems, which have been the reserve of higher vehicle segments to date, are based on state-of-the-art radar, camera and sensor technology and are designed to address the common causes of accidents, such as inadequate distance, fatigue and darkness.


As a world first in the compact segment, the B-Class features a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist as standard, which can lower the risk of rear-end collisions. The COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system is able to output a visual and acoustic warning to alert a distracted driver and prepares Brake Assist for the most precise possible braking response. This is initiated as soon as the driver emphatically operates the brake pedal.

In contrast to systems currently on the market in the compact class, the new COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST feature is not merely a system intended to minimise minor damage in urban traffic. Rather, this innovative solution is aimed at protecting motorists from typical rear-end collisions in dangerous traffic situations.

Mercedes-Benz expects the new safety system to have a significant positive effect on accident statistics. On the basis of detailed analyses of accident data, Mercedes-Benz safety experts assume that around 20 percent of all rear-end collisions can be avoided with this radar-based technology, while the severity of such accidents can be reduced in a further 25 percent of cases.

Electronic helpers: all the other assistance systems at a glance

The democratisation of safety also encompasses an array of other assistance systems which have been adopted into the B-Class from the larger model series. These include:

- Adaptive Highbeam Assist: when vehicles are detected ahead of or oncoming to the vehicle, this system automatically dips the beams and adjusts the range of the headlamps appropriate to the distance. The driver benefits from a longer dipped beam range and does not generally need to switch manually between high and dipped beam.

- Blind Spot Assist: this radar-based system employs two additional radar sensors in the rear of the vehicle to warn the driver before a lane-change if it detects another vehicle in the exterior mirror's blind spot.

- Lane Keeping Assist: a camera behind the windscreen recognises clear carriageway markings and outputs a warning if the car is about to leave its lane unintentionally.

- ATTENTION ASSIST(standard): warns drivers when it detects typical signs that they are over-tired. Studies have shown that around a quarter of all serious motorway accidents are caused by drowsy drivers, making this factor an even bigger cause of accidents than drink-driving. With ATTENTION ASSIST, Mercedes-Benz is therefore making another important contribution towards helping to avoid accidents: it employs high-resolution sensors to observe driver behaviour and can recognise whether the driver is tired or not paying attention, based primarily on steering wheel movements.

- Speed Limit Assist: a camera fitted behind the windscreen detects speed limit signs at the roadside and compares this data to information contained in the GPS system or the digital map. The relevant speed limit is then displayed in the instrument cluster.

- Brake hold function: when stopping, for example at traffic lights, the driver merely has to press the brake pedal slightly more firmly. He can then take his foot off the brake pedal and the brake will remain engaged until he moves off again. The brake is released automatically when the driver steps on the accelerator.

- Hill Start Assist: this function is able to prevent the vehicle from rolling back unintentionally when moving off on an uphill slope.

- Reversing camera: the B-Class is optionally available with a reversing camera incorporating a wide-angle lens which is integrated in the handle strip on the tailgate. When reverse gear is engaged, the image from the camera is transmitted to the screen of the Audio 20 system or the COMAND system. Static and dynamic guide lines assist the driver during manoeuvring.

- DISTRONIC PLUS: the radar-based adaptive cruise control supports the driver at speeds between zero and 200 km/h by maintaining the distance to the vehicles in front. In doing so it is able to apply the brakes to bring the vehicle to a complete standstill and also accelerate it again. As a result, the system is also particularly convenient in stop-and-go traffic. If the system detects that the distance is being reduced too quickly, it warns the driver with both visual and audible signals.

A number of assistance systems which provided for added comfort and safety in the previous B-Class are also optionally available for the new generation. These include:

- Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC: the cruise control function of the speed control system maintains the preset speed. The additional SPEEDTRONIC function ensures that the stored speed is not exceeded. Both functions come as standard with the 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission and are optionally available for the models with manual transmission.

- Active Parking Assist: two ultrasonic sensors installed on the right and left of the front bumper measure the length and depth of a potential parking space. If the parking space fits, the driver is shown an arrow next to the "P" symbol in the instrument cluster. The optimum path into the space is calculated on the basis of the vehicle's present position and the system assists the driver during the parking manoeuvre by operating the electromechanical steering. The driver is still required to perform acceleration and braking, however. The speed is limited to 10 km/h for the parking manoeuvres.

A new generation of air conditioning systems is being premiered in the B-Class. THERMATIC manual air conditioning (standard) and THERMOTRONIC comfort automatic air conditioning (optional) feature a host of improvements over their predecessors. The new air conditioning systems are noticeably quieter and generate markedly less vibrations, as the blower motor is mechanically decoupled from the housing with the aid of special rubber elements. The systems furthermore offer optimised air intake in snowy conditions and offer more manual blower levels.


The efficient use of drive energy also constituted a key development objective. The air conditioning compressor operates according to the actually prevailing requirements: in dry weather or at temperatures in which no cooling is necessary, the air conditioning system carries out automatic and infinitely variable lowering of the compressor output. For this purpose, the B-Class possesses a special window misting sensor in the base of the rear-view mirror which measures the window temperature and the interior humidity and is thus able to detect whether the window is misted over.

A further aid to the efficient use of fuel is an internal heat exchanger which enables a reduction in the drive power of the refrigerant compressor. Supply and return of the refrigerant take place in separate but adjacent channels. As a result of this separate channelling of the two refrigerant flows, the refrigerant in the supply channel undergoes additional cooling without consuming any additional energy.

The ECO start/stop function is linked to the air conditioning system, which monitors regulation of the interior temperature and then enables the stop function. Automatic air conditioning continues during stop phases.

Source: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Arriving at the destination safely, rapidly and in a relaxed frame of mind: detecting traffic problems before they are seen, being aware of hazards before they become a threat. Intelligent mobility at a new level was another key focus during the development of the F 125!. This is to be achieved by electronic networking of the vehicle and the external infrastructure - so-called Car-to-X communication. It allows information to be exchanged both between vehicles, and between vehicles and traffic control centres. In this way following and oncoming vehicles can be informed about potential hazards, enabling them to take timely and appropriate action in the relevant situation.


In Car-to-X communication, anonymised information about the traffic situation is also relayed to control centres so that further developments can be reliably predicted and the road infrastructure can be optimally configured in response. This information is in turn made available to road users, so that they can vary their routes accordingly and reach their destinations conveniently and safely in the shortest time.

Special WLAN-based radio technology

To ensure safe and reliable communication even in very dense traffic, a specially developed radio technology based on the well-known WLAN standard is used. Information is transmitted directly to other vehicles, or to stations installed along the roadside. In the event that the communication partner is not in direct transmission range, other vehicles can relay the information ("Multihopping") or save it for later transmission ("Store & Forward"). In addition two-way radio technologies such as UMTS are integrated, so that gaps in WLAN coverage can be bridged (e.g. where there is no roadside infrastructure) or added value services can be offered.

Specific applications might include a warning of approaching emergency service vehicles, well before the driver can see or hear them, a reminder that other vehicles have the right of way at obscure road junctions, or rapid and precise relaying of information about obstacles or pedestrians on the road ahead.

Networked crossings, speed recommendations and optimised traffic light cycles also enable drivers to make efficient progress thanks to a series of green lights. The touring saloon of the future will therefore relieve the driver's workload in many standard situations, defuse potential sources of danger and make for even more relaxed travel.

Advanced Driving Assist for semi-autonomous driving

When it comes to comfort the F 125! goes a whole stage further by autonomously performing certain frequent driving manoeuvres if the driver so wishes. On multi-lane, one-way roads, for example, Advanced Driving Assist allows autonomous cruising in the same lane (with or without vehicles immediately ahead) and safe, automatic lane-changing, and in a further development stage even overtaking manoeuvres.

In the process the F 125! controls both the linear and lateral vehicle movements, while its sensors "keep an eye on" other road users at all times. The driver merely needs to give the relevant command, leave his hands loosely on the steering wheel, lean back and relax. Naturally he is able to take back full control of the car at any time.

Source: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

A tough truck wouldn't be complete without brilliant underpinnings. The new Actros is equipped with a dynamic chassis based on a torsionally stiff frame with wide track. It integrates an intelligent concept which improves ride comfort and helps for a sensitive and firm steering for added fuel economy. The assistance systems provide extra safety and relieve stress when the truck is stuck in traffic. In the future, the range will be extended as the chassis was developed to properly fit new and additional wheelbase lengths.


Criteria such as handling and safety are becoming increasingly important in long-distance transport. The new Mercedes-Benz Actros takes account of this, ushering in a new era of driving dynamics for heavy-duty trucks. No other premium-category truck feels as poised, assured or safe on the road, largely thanks to a new frame and an extensively modified chassis. The new truck's exemplary ride comfort is at the same high level. A Mercedes-Benz is always extremely well prepared should the worst come to the worst: the already outstanding safety level has been further enhanced by extended functions. Last but not least, a perfected modular system means that the new Actros is available with a wide choice of wheelbase and frame variants. Plus it offers exceptional body-mounting ability.

Complete chassis and ride-comfort concept

Major plus points of the new Actros include its driving dynamics, handling and comfort, largely thanks to a complete chassis and ride-comfort concept, from the frame and the chassis through to the cab suspension and the driver's seat. A wealth of innovations in this field means that the new Actros conveys a safer driving feel than any other truck in its class.

Torsionally stiff frame with wide track

A new frame, uncompromisingly designed for on-road vehicles, forms the backbone of the new Actros. It is exceptionally torsionally stiff and has a wide track of 834 mm (previously 744 mm). Both factors together form the basis for excellent handling stability – the Actros hugs the road with an assured feel.

Tried-and-tested axles and a dynamic, new chassis

The core design of the tried-and-tested axles is the same as for the predecessor model; however, the developers have completely redesigned the control and the suspension to enhance driving safety and ride comfort.

New features include the location system for the Mercedes-Benz HL6 hypoid rear axle, based on optimised rear-axle location with new geometry and lines of action that now intersect behind the axle. Four-bellows air suspension, which responds precisely to road unevenness, is now responsible for the ride comfort. This is a symmetrical air suspension system (i.e. the bellows are of the same size). The spring track is wider than previously. Another advantage is the fact that four bellows operate faster and can lift higher loads than two bellows.

The tried-and-tested offset front axles are available with either steel or air suspension and with a choice of tonnages. The number of spring layers varies depending on the permissible axle load. The weight of the steel springs has been reduced thanks to an aluminium front spring bracket. New features include weight-optimised suspension with single-leaf parabolic springs on the front axle.

The chassis for the new Actros impresses with its high levels of directional stability, outstanding understeer/oversteer characteristics and high precision. Ride comfort has also been further enhanced.

Three cab mounting variants

The cab mounting is a major component in the driving-dynamics concept. There is a choice of three variants for the new Actros: Standard cab mounting, Comfort cab mounting (standard for cabs with a flat floor) and the exceptionally comfortable air suspension.

Sensitive and firm steering even saves fuel

One of the key factors behind the new Actros' excellent handling is the steering system, which impresses on account of its precision, thanks to a re-tuned steering gear, and conveys excellent road feel. The ratio is more direct whilst the kinematics have been improved and the controlled power steering pump saves fuel.

Powerful new engine brake and highly effective retarder

In 1996, the forerunner to the new Actros revolutionised the truck world on account of its four-disc brake system with a high-pressure system and electronic control. The new Actros takes this exceptional brake system a stage further. A new, optionally available high-performance engine brake sets new standards once again. The three-stage engine brake achieves an immense braking power of up to 400 kW (544 hp) on Euro VI models. Another new feature is the optionally available water secondary retarder with a braking torque of up to 3500 Nm or up to 750 kW. As well as being more powerful, the new retarder is lighter, weighing in at just 65 kg instead of 100 kg as previously.

Assistance systems to enhance comfort and relieve stress when stuck in traffic

The previous model series also set milestones with its safety and assistance systems. Whether it be adaptive cruise control, Lane Keeping Assist, Stability Control Assist or the revolutionary Active Brake Assist with autonomous emergency braking when stationary obstacles or moving obstacles ahead are detected, the Actros has always led the way for others to follow.

The new Actros builds on this lead. Stability Control Assist is now fitted as standard on both the semitrailer tractor and the chassis version, while the unique Proximity Control Assist system with stop-and-go function now even controls moving off and stopping in traffic automatically – making the driver's job much easier when driving through cities or in stop-and-go traffic. What's more, the Proximity Control Assist is no longer automatically linked to the retarder. The sensed fifth wheel coupling informs the driver of its lock status via a display in the cab. The exterior mirror with manoeuvring function on the co-driver's side extends the range of vision when manoeuvring by automatically adjusting outwards by ten degrees when reverse gear is engaged.

Standard equipment for all Actros models includes automatic activation of the hazard warning lights following an emergency stop so as to warn following traffic and help prevent rear-end collisions. The optional rain and light sensor activates the windscreen wipers and dipped beam when required, while the likewise optionally available tyre pressure monitoring system for the tractor and trailer is primarily aimed at enhancing safety: burst tyres as a result of insufficient inflation pressure are just as much of a safety risk as flat tyres. Furthermore, insufficient tyre inflation pressure increases the tyre's flex and, therefore, fuel consumption as well as reducing service life – a key factor when it comes to economy.

Attractively priced safety packages

Ready-made safety packages available at attractive prices encourage the inclusion of safety technology. The “Basic Safety Pack” comprises Proximity Control Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and a driver's airbag, while the Classic Safety Pack includes all of these as well as Active Brake Assist and roll control for dropsiders. Meanwhile, the Top Safety Pack features all of the above plus a retarder.

Range extended to include new and additional wheelbase lengths

The new Actros is a bespoke premium truck with an even larger range of models available than its predecessor. It can be ordered as a two- or three-axle version with trailing or leading axle and with a choice of three frame heights: standard, low and lowliner. Mercedes‑Benz has also further extended the range of wheelbase lengths by narrowing the gap between each version. Hence the two-axle semitrailer tractor is now available with a choice of four wheelbase lengths – 3550, 3700, 3850 or 4000 mm – while the two-axle chassis with cab gives customers a whopping eleven wheelbase lengths to choose from, ranging from 3600 to 6600 mm in steps of 300 mm.

Low-frame and lowliner models now have a slightly lower coupling point height, while the dropsider frame is also noticeably lower, making it easier to mount bodies.

Good body-mounting ability prioritised

The new Actros chassis already offers exceptionally good body-mounting ability as it is. The 50 mm hole pattern throughout in the frame side members, including the area of the axles, gives bodybuilders a great deal of freedom, as does the absence of rivets aft of the rear axle. Frame overhangs can be selected in steps of 300 mm, while the end crossmember can be relocated in 50 mm steps.

Although the exhaust system takes up more space on the frame due to the Euro VI requirements, optimised exhaust outlets make the bodybuilder's job easier. If required, space can be left within the frame – for demountable-platform vehicles, for example. In this case, there is no need to relocate the tank subsequently. Standardised fastenings, brackets and fixing bolts facilitate body mounting. All of which saves costs and shortens delivery times.

New chassis with new tanks

The wider frame, the in-line engines and the more complex exhaust gas aftertreatment system for Euro VI require a modified chassis design. The developers have taken this opportunity to introduce a new fuel tank concept among other things. Four tank cross-sections give a fuel supply volume of 290 to 1300 litres. The tanks are flexibly inter-combinable for individual solutions, and there are no conversion costs. Even the AdBlue tanks are available in a choice of sizes: 60 or 75 litres.

The main fuel tank and the AdBlue tank are mounted on the left-hand side of the vehicle. There is space for an additional tank on the right-hand side. The full vehicle width of 2.55 metres can be used to optimise the tank volume. There is also a combination tank with two chambers for diesel fuel and AdBlue available for semitrailer tractors.

Source: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Stuttgart/Mannheim, Germany, May 20, 2011

The engines for the new Mercedes-Benz Citaro are based on BlueTec diesel technology. The wide-ranging choice of engines for the Citaro covers the full spectrum of power requirements. The OM 906 hLA turbocharged diesel engine is a particularly compact and lightweight six-cylinder unit with a displacement of 6.37 litres, an output of 210 kW (286 hp) and a maximum torque of 1120 Nm. Alternatively, there is the OM 457 hLA six-cylinder engine with a 12 l displacement in a choice of two power ratings: 220 kW (299 hp) and 260 kW (354 hp) with maximum torques of 1250 Nm and 1600 Nm respectively. All of the engine variants stand out for their high pulling power from low rev speeds. This is of particular importance for enabling the bus to pull away dynamically in city traffic, even when full to capacity.


EEV emissions rating even without particulate filter

All engines are Euro V compliant as standard. The engines can furthermore be specified in a version that meets the most stringent voluntary emissions standard that currently exists – the EEV (Enhanced Environmentally-friendly Vehicle) standard. The new Citaro achieves EEV compliance by means of internal engine measures alone without the need for a particulate filter – further evidence of the enormous potential of the efficient, eco-friendly BlueTec diesel technology and its viability for the future. EEV with no filter means reduced costs for procurement as well as maintenance. Further benefits include the lower kerb weight and reduced space requirements, which in turn increases the number of seats. A particulate filter can, of course, be installed as an option. Power transmission is handled by fully automatic torque-converter transmissions made by Voith and ZF. The most up-to-date versions of both are fitted in the Citaro to maximise efficiency. With a choice of engine, transmission and matching final drive ratio, the new Citaro takes to the road with a customised drivetrain, just as its predecessor did.

Further reduction in fuel consumption

A new, electronically controlled air compressor is employed on the articulated Citaro bus with the vertically mounted OM 457 LA engine. This is an EAPU (Electronic Air Processing Unit) that combines the compressed-air drier, pressure governor, four-circuit safety valve and pressure sensors into a single component. The compact construction simplifies assembly and reduces the number of lines required. Where possible, the electronically controlled air compressor operates when the Citaro G is in overrun mode to save fuel. To ensure this is the case as often as possible, the system pressure for the suspension and door operation has been increased from 10 to 13 bar with the introduction of the new air compressor. This produces greater air reserves in day-to-day operation and saves fuel.

Detailed improvements to comfort suspension

The chassis on the new Mercedes-Benz Citaro again excels with exceptional comfort and handling safety thanks to its independent front suspension. In this respect too though, the new Citaro has now gone one better, especially from the driver’s point of view. The reworked steering has improved steering-wheel return, for instance – a key consideration for urban regular-service buses which have to turn so frequently.

Supreme safety levels thanks to innovative assistance system

A new assistance system is making its debut in the low-floor bus and in the Citaro simultaneously: for the first time, the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is available for an urban regular-service bus. The Mercedes‑Benz Citaro is taking safety technology for urban regular-service buses into a new era with this innovative feature – thereby emulating its predecessor, which also set new benchmarks on its launch.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

- Bremerhaven bus show and EBSF from 24 to 25 May 2011
- EBSF sub-project concluded
- Mercedes-Benz demonstration bus based on the Citaro G
- Innovative passenger communication to optimise passenger flows
- European driver's cockpit starts test series in Dresden

Stuttgart/Bremen, Germany, May 24, 2011 - Red means wait – green means walk: that is the basis of a simple, trailblazing idea in the bus of the future. An idea which will optimise passenger flows both inside and outside the bus. In simple terms, the system uses illuminated door entries which quickly and clearly tell passengers where they may enter and exit. This is just one of the many ideas generated as part of the EBSF (European Bus System of the Future) transport project that will be shown at the Bremen bus show from 24 to 25 May 2011. The conference, organised by the EBSF project partners along with the UITP (International Association of Public Transport) and the VDV (German Transport Operators' Assocation), will look at the current activities of this EU research and demonstration project, with particular focus on the EBSF sub-project in Bremerhaven. As well as considering the theoretical approaches, the conference will also look at solutions that have already been implemented, such as the demonstrator vehicle on the basis of a Mercedes-Benz Citaro and the vision for a pan-European, ergonomically optimised bus driver cockpit.


European Bus System of the Future

EBSF (European Bus System of the Future) is the largest road-based transport project supported by the European Commission to date. It is conceived as an overarching, widely networked research project for the design and development of an innovative, high-quality European bus system of the future. The aim of EBSF is to demonstrate the potential of a new generation of urban bus networks, with a particular focus on an integrated systems approach (vehicle, infrastructure, technology, operation) with takes the passenger requirements of all age groups into account. The results and technical solutions from these projects are implemented in so-called "Use Cases" (demonstration projects), and tested in day-to-day operations. A total of seven demonstration projects are planned in seven European cities. A demonstration vehicle is now in operation in the bus transport system of Bremerhaven, and another demonstration project – the vision of an ergonomically optimised European bus driver's cockpit – is available for virtual journeys at the IVI-Frauenhofer Institute in Dresden.

European driver's cockpit project

The driver has a place of particular importance in a bus. The aim of the project for an ergonomically optimised European bus driver's cockpit is therefore to take this human factor into consideration by establishing the same ergonomic parameters for the driver's workplace in all European cities, as has been done e.g. in Germany with the VDV 234 guidelines. Apart from the ergonomic aspects, factors such as the driver's personal needs, safety considerations and compliance with European regulations play a part. "The driver's cockpit as we know it know was completely reexamined and redesigned," says Dr. Helmuth Warth, Daimler Buses and EBSF project coordinator. "In the study presented, practically all components can be adjusted to suit individual needs. Whether the instrument panel itself, the steering wheel or the driver's seat suspension system. Only in this way can we ensure that all the different physiological factors – large, small, male or female – will meet with the same driving and working comfort in the cockpit."

As part of the EBSF project, the developments in the newly designed driver's cockpit are currently being tested and evaluated with test drivers from Rome, Dresden and Gothenburg at the IVI-Frauenhofer Institute in Dresden. In these test series, selected drivers absolve virtual journeys on regular service routes through Dresden and Rome in a 3D simulator. These tests in the driving simulator are expected to be completed by the end of June 2011. The project personnel then hope that the detailed results will establish whether and which of the visionary cockpit features can be transferred to a standardised European driver's cockpit.

Passenger information systems

One of the first demonstration vehicles is based on a Mercedes‑Benz Citaro articulated bus. This vehicle incorporates ideas from a sub-project concerned with passenger information systems. Externally, the otherwise straight lines of the Citaro differ greatly from the conventional city bus by the paint finish and additional design features. The illuminated doors are the first features to catch the attention. Specially designed LED lighting elements already show passengers the way on board as the bus approaches the bus-stop. Green means that they can enter here, while red means that this door is not intended for boarding. The developers hope that this controllable door colour coding will enable passenger flows to be guided more specifically and rapidly. The aim is to avoid the "traffic-jams" in the door areas that frequently occur on school runs or at heavily frequented bus-stops in peak periods. The clear pictograms on the side windows are also very noticeable. They enable passengers to see at a glance which technical features they can expect to find on board: WLAN, GPS and 230 V sockets.

While two externally aligned 58 cm LCD monitors at door 1 inform passengers about the route and bus-stops even before they board, four monitors in the interior perform the same fuinction. In addition they show onward connections, deviations, waiting times in real-time and, when in idle mode, cultural, political and business information. The on-screen display is also suitable for older and visually impaired passengers. A seat identification system with lights above the seats is intended to control passenger flows in the aisles. Thanks to these, it is possible from any position to see whether there are still seats available in the rear areas of the bus. A logical colour concept shows the way: green means that the seat is available, red means it is occupied. This reduces the time spent looking for a seat, and the walking around that this involves. Passengers without a seat can also travel in comfort: there are padded leaning surfaces combined with leaning supports opposite doors 2 and 3.

Project cities

The Citaro was delivered to the Bremerhaven transport authority at the end of April, and now it must show that its ideas work in day-to-day regular service. Bremerhaven is the only Germany city taking part in the four-year EBSF project, and in addition demonstration vehicles will go into service in Madrid, Paris, Rouen, Rome, Gothenburg and Budapest. 48 project partners made up of manufacturers, suppliers, operators, official bodies, researchers and consultancies are accompanying the project, which commenced in 2008. Together with these partners, EBSF is in search of trailblazing, combinable vehicle, infrastructure and operational designs with the aim of showing the possibilities for technical harmonisation and standardisation.


Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.