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Trendsetting and dynamic: the new SETRA ComfortClass 500 is setting revolutionary standards

By | Published Friday, 25 May 2012

The new ComfortClass 500 generation of touring coaches sends a very clear message at first glance: this is a Setra bus with a dynamic, self-confident look, one that earns top marks for comfort and safety, and redefines the tour bus premium segment. The two-axle model S 515 HD, the two- and three-axle S 516 HD and the three-axle S 517 HD will all be launched in the autumn of 2012. They are distinguished by the systematic refinements in design that continue to bridge the gap between traditional and modern bus values. The familiar elements of the Ulm-based Daimler brand convey the classic Setra values of innovation, comfort, efficiency and safety, but in a new style.

Lothar Holder, Setra brand spokesman at EvoBus GmbH, explained: “With the new ComfortClass 500, we want to do more than just prepare our customers for the challenges of the next few years. As a technology leader, we are setting standards for design, aerodynamics and efficiency with this new generation of vehicles, making the future tangible today.”

A typical feature of the ComfortClass 500 is the curved side line, rising and falling gradually, with the new decorative element at the B-pillar, producing a gentle sweep that encircles the fully redesigned vehicle. In the front section, it gives the new tour bus a friendlier, yet at the same time more distinctive, face.

Two of the most striking features are the long roof drain at the front, and the much more rounded windscreen, which runs down as far as the front logo panel with the three-dimensional Setra lettering. The front, along with the redesigned outside mirrors, was optimised in the course of a painstaking development process that included countless hours of testing in the wind tunnel. In conjunction with the new aerodynamic rear section, and also additional individual measures, the CC500 achieves a drag coefficient of 0.33, a figure that up to now would have been considered unattainable in this segment. Also new are the modular-design headlight and indicator segments, featuring unmistakeable trim elements. These further underline the vehicle’s features such as high quality, safety and reliability, and gently introduce the encircling lines, which sweep upwards into the side areas like wings.

Not only does the ComfortClass 500 already comply with the Euro VI emissions standard for new vehicles, which is due to come into force in 2014, the overall concept also incorporates numerous safety regulations and legal provisions planned for the next few years. These include additional requirements for driver assistance systems, which will apply from 2015, as well as Regulation ECE-R 66/01, which introduces a stricter rollover standard for tour buses, and which will come into force two years later. In keeping with the Setra brand tradition, an intelligent lightweight construction concept was developed to meet the latter requirement, combining greater rigidity with less weight.

The new ComfortClass 500 will be powered by engines from the new BlueEfficiency Power generation from Mercedes-Benz. The new in-line, six-cylinder OM 470, with a displacement of 10.7 litres, has been optimised for fuel efficiency and performance, and generates 315 kW (428 hp) at 1,800 rpm. It achieves a maximum torque of 2,100 Nm at as little as 1,100 rpm. The aerodynamic design of the ComfortClass 500 and a raft of weight-reduction measures also mean that Setra will be presenting a tour bus in the autumn that, in addition to a host of exclusive equipment variants, has the added attraction of operating with reduced fuel consumption.


Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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SETRA outlines future generation 500 series

By | Published Monday, 7 May 2012

The premium bus brand SETRA celebrated the 60th milestone of its prestigious history during 2011 and is now working at full throttle for the development of the next series of buses and coaches: the 500. The current 400 range has been on the market since 2001 and it was already time a worthy heir would come to the throne. The new generation of people transporters from the Ulm-based company will be officially revealed at the end of 2012, with the entirely revised lineup remaining to be filled with several variants under the three vehicle classes (Top-, Comfort- and Multi-) in the course of the coming years. Among the first body versions to be released we mention the MultiClass 515 NF urban bus and the TopClass 531 DT grand cruiser, according to latest reports. Read more about the future plans of SETRA, as well as about the design philosophy and the technical innovations of the firm headquartered at Ulm, Germany, in the press kit posted below!

SETRA Design Workshop 2012: Evolutionary design distinguishes the Setra brand

Setra customers know that the touring coach they are travelling in meets all legal requirements, boasts exclusive comfort-increasing equipment and brings the driver and passengers to their destination in the highest possible level of safety. This is, in part, thanks to the designers at EvoBus Development, a Daimler brand that has always been known for its uniqueness in the branch, not to mention its unmistakably liberal style; EvoBus are thus able to complement the classic Setra values of comfort, value, quality and customer-oriented variance.

Right from the very first sketch, the top priority of the designers from the Daimler Buses development team is to combine the functionality of a new Setra bus with an extraordinary appearance and thus set the scene for a strong brand presence.

“Our aim is to continue developing the appearance of the renowned Setra brand from series to series, without losing sight of tradition while at the same time building a bridge between what has already been achieved and what it yet to be explored,” explains Mathias Lenz, Head of Design at Daimler Buses. Head of the Design department in Neu-Ulm since 2010, Lenz explains that it is not just a case of being allowed to continue using existing ideas, rather a necessity: “Setra buses represent evolution”. At an early stage of the development, the six designers incorporate form-based ideas into the conceptual design work, thereby turning on its head the universally accepted design principle of “form follows function”, according to which the design is derived from the intended function.

Design work starts with a so-called “package” from the Development department. These clearly defined specifications include, among other things, the dimensional concept and the new technical objectives that must be met by using an effective modular design concept as a large number of common parts guarantees cost-effective bus production, despite a wide range of vehicle variants being available.

A brand which generates passion

In their creative work, not only do the designers incorporate current European legislation concerning safety systems and the reduction of exhaust gases, but also the ideas and requirements of the Setra Sales department. Another top priority here is thus a clear definition of the three relevant target groups: companies, drivers and passengers. Mathias Lenz explains: “While the future operator seeks an attractive, high-performance product with high value retention, the focus of the driver is on reliability and functionality. The priorities of the passengers are comfort and convenience.” It goes without saying that all three look for a safe vehicle whose quality and appearance illicit a sense of pride. After all, the design of the bus represents the Setra brand, which must in turn demonstrate the Setra values in the European bus market as well as generate a passionate response from the industry. The buses from the Neu-Ulm production site thus need to satisfy the current demands of operators and, at the same time, plant a seed for future generations.

In order to be able to answer tomorrow’s questions today, the designers open their eyes and ears to the world, visiting trade fairs and meeting with bus companies and associations. With their flair for future trends, they are able to establish a sound knowledge base. As Mathias Lenz explains, “there are no short-term trends in the bus industry.” Despite having a very independent appearance, every Setra vehicle is harmoniously incorporated into the overall product family. In the first instance, this is achieved by distinctive style features and key elements which communicate the same identity across the entire portfolio, but at the same time, each bus additionally displays a very individual design idiom.

From the sketch to the design freeze

Completion of the design development process takes one year, from the first sketch to the design freeze. Once the design data has been approved by the Management Board at Daimler Buses, the data for the new bus is “frozen” for subsequent development stages and subsequent modifications to the design cannot be made.

During a design meeting lasting several days and generally held at a neutral location outside of the Neu-Ulm Development Centre, the entire team gets started on sketching initial ideas and suggestions. In addition to pencils and paper, the technical specifications and samples from the current product portfolio are all that is available. What results is a multitude of design ideas which the group sort at a later stage. Mathias Lenz: “We basically assemble the initial bouquets from a meadow full of colourful flowers.” Initial discussions with the relevant project managers from Development follow, as well as with the employees from Brand Sales. There are then three final concepts to choose from, which require further elaboration and rendering. Rendering involves the generation of a sophisticated sketch using computer graphics, providing an initial impression of the material, size and shape of the new bus.

This virtual design process grants designers quick and simple access, facilitating speedy verification and alignment of the current data by the relevant development engineers. Mathias Lenz: “As the design of the new bus progresses, this synchronous collaboration within the individual development areas is very important for achieving solid results without any great loss of time.”

This constant exchange takes place from the beginning of every process step, for example, during the tests carried out in the Daimler wind tunnel in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim, where designers and aerodynamic engineers make subtle adjustments to a 1:4-scale clay model which can be easily moulded. The aerodynamic airflow guarantees a reduction in fuel consumption and thus represents an important aspect of economic efficiency. It gives designers the opportunity to create a vehicle “face” with very distinctive features.

Following the subsequent photometric scanning of the model, the data obtained is incorporated into the existing data model.

For a 3D representation, the data models are prepared as a realistic model, which can be rotated in real time and which serves as the basis for the final decision regarding the design freeze.

Basis for tool manufacture

Even after the go-ahead has been given for the design freeze by management at Daimler, minimal changes may still be made in agreement with Testing and Production. The model is also used as a basis for prototype construction, after which the tool manufacture data can be passed on to the relevant suppliers. The work of the designers doesn’t end there, however, with Mathias Lenz and his team involved in all further development processes, from the exterior to the interior, from market presentation to the start of series production.

It is not just the design idiom that plays a central role in the overall design process, but also colour, material, surface finishing and treatment. With these “trim and colour” aspects, the internationally active design team uses their expertise to provide every new Setra touring bus with a clear identity.

SETRA Design Workshop 2012: Unmistakable face

Innovation and tradition are two values that are inseparably linked with the Setra brand. As too is the consistently trendsetting design of the Ulm-based bus manufacturer, which has gone from strength to strength over the past 60 years and is responsible for the unmistakable face boasted by all its vehicles.

It all began with the first German bus with a self-supporting body that left the assembly hall in Ulm’s Weststadt in 1951. The S 8 impressed the experts with features such as a streamlined exterior, modern driver’s cockpit and good accessibility to the engine compartment.
The buses from the 10 model series, started in 1953 (1953 – 1967), also had a round design, however the front and rear were considerably flatter when compared to the S 8, thereby giving them a more compact form. The ventilation and heating systems were operated via a central ventilation duct which guided fresh air into the outermost corners of the passenger compartment. Sliding windows in the upper part of the side glazing and six roof hatches also ensured the vehicle was well ventilated. Only the S 7 model series launched in 1965 had the angular design which appeared two years later as part of the 100 series.

The emphasis on the roundness of the first Setra generations gave way to a more clear and linear design in the 100 series (1967 – 1976), marking a significant change in the bus construction sector. The heating and ventilation system was also upgraded and an air-conditioning system with cross-flow blowers introduced. Due to the high side windows, the standard glass-bordered roof option could be omitted for touring coaches. Further advantages included the full-length luggage compartments, corrosion-resistant, anodised light-alloy components on the window frames, bumpers, front grill and mouldings, as well as the underfloor protection.

The predecessor to the diverse 200 series was the S 200, presented at the International Motor Show in Geneva in 1973. One particularly impressive feature of this super-high-deck touring coach was its bonded glazing. This highlight, doing away with what had always been prominent window pillars, really raised the style stakes for modern bus design and triggered plenty of imitations. The vehicle already featured the innovative cross-flow ventilation system, which saw air entering and exiting the vehicle at the sides above the windows.

The 200 model series (1976 – 1991) boasted a design featuring no‑nonsense clear lines which represented practicality, efficiency and long-term value, while passengers were provided with an unmatched level of interior comfort.

The 300 series (1991 – 2001) represented a new era – also in terms of design. One of the most striking features of the new buses was the pronounced sweeping line behind the cockpit area, as well as the newly developed integrated mirror system that gave this model series its unmistakable face. The mirror arms could be heated and adjusted from the inside, and, despite initially being referred to as “rabbit ears” or “bug antennae”, provided the driver with all-round better vision in conjunction with the optimised A-pillars. This mirror system was immediately adopted by the industry and still inspires many competitors today. Another impressive feature was the ergonomically designed cockpit.

The most striking feature of the 400 model series TopClass touring coach is, without a doubt, the further-developed sweeping lines referred to as “La Linea”, a high-gloss aluminium trim, which stretches all the way to the rear. It is not only a visual highlight, but also conceals the side air inlets for the new cross-flow system. The integrated mirror system from previous models was also revised and moved from the A-pillars to the side walls. Thanks to creative technical thinking on the part of the engineers and artistic input from the design team, it has been possible to introduce a completely new sense of space in these vehicles, with seemingly free-floating luggage racks and indirect ceiling lighting.

Setra milestones and innovations

1893
Karl Kässbohrer sets up in business as a cartwright

1911
Kässbohrer start building buses 

1951
The first self-supporting bus, the Setra S 8, is launched 

1955
At the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Setra introduces independent air suspension on buses for the first time 

Launch of the Setra S 6 at the Geneva Motor Show

1959
First Setra modular system and first articulated bus with self-supporting body in Europe

1964
Setra becomes the first bus manufacturer to fit a retarder as a wear-free braking system 

1967
Launch of the 100 series and series introduction of independent air suspension

1976
The 200 series, featuring the new cross-flow ventilation system, goes into series production. Over the next 15 years, this series will generate a multitude of new developments, including a three-axle high-deck touring coach especially for the US market and the first low-floor bus for rural regular-service operations in Europe

1981
Setra introduces the first double-decker coach, the S 228 DT (Double-deck Touring coach)

1984
ABS introduced as standard on all buses and coaches 

1991
Launch of the 300 series with new integral mirror system and exterior styling, plus ergonomically designed driver cockpit and, for the first time, a multifunction display system as standard 

1992
The Setra S 315 HDH is voted "Coach of the Year 1993" 

1996
The Setra S 315 NF is voted "Bus of the Year 96"

2001
Setra presents the TopClass 400, setting new standards in terms of technology, design and equipment. In the same year, this new generation of touring coaches is voted "Coach of the Year 2002" at the "Busworld Kortrijk" show

2002
Presentation of the S 431 DT double-decker coach at the IAA International Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover 

Launch of the S 415 HD in right-hand drive

Sale of the 1000th TopClass 400 vehicle

2003
The S 417 for the North American market is officially launched in February at the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) show in Orlando, Florida

The S 415 HD in right-hand drive is shown at a specialist show for the first time at the "Coach & Bus" show in Birmingham in September

Launch of two vehicles in the new-design ComfortClass 400 at "Busworld" in Kortrijk, Belgium
Sale of the 1500th TopClass 400 vehicle

From October onwards, all TopClass 400 and ComfortClass 400 vehicles are fitted as standard with the Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

2004
Launch of the Setra S 415 GT at the 60th IAA International Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover 

2005
Early March marks the 50th anniversary of the launch of the Setra S 6 compact bus at the Geneva Motor Show in 1955 

In March, the northern German coach operator Imken Touristik takes delivery of the 3000th TopClass 400 vehicle – a Setra S 415 HD

In June, during an event to demonstrate the reliability and ride comfort of the low-floor bus S 315 NF held at the RVO (regional transport authority for Upper Bavaria) in Berchtesgaden, the 10,000th MultiClass vehicle, an S 315 UL, is handed over to the transport authorities of the town of Ludwigslust in the north-east German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Coach operator Birkmaier takes delivery of the 1000th ComfortClass 400 coach, a Setra S 415 GT
At the "Busworld" trade show in the Belgian city of Kortrijk in October, the brand launches the first two models in its new generation of rural regular-service buses, the MultiClass 400, in the form of the Setra S 415 UL and the Setra S 417 UL

Launch of the new proximity-controlled cruise control (ART) and Continuous Braking Limiter (DBL) safety systems in the TopClass 400 and ComfortClass 400 touring coaches

2006
In early February, the 1500th Setra coach goes to Belgium. The milestone coach is an S 416 HDH with glass roof 

The 5000th touring coach from the TopClass 400 and ComfortClass 400 series is handed over on 7 March. The vehicle, an S 416 HDH with a glass roof, proximity-controlled cruise control (ART) and 50 comfortable reclining seats, goes to the Swedish tour operator Stigen Buss AB in Stigen

2007
Setra is once again represented at the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) show, in New Orleans, Louisiana, this time with two S 417 models from the TopClass 400 generation of touring coaches. The highlight of the show that year is the 500th Setra S 417, which was produced for the North American and Mexican market, and was in fact already sold 

Setra supplies its 90,000th vehicle since the brand came into being in 1951. The S 416 HDH, a model in the TopClass 400 generation of touring coaches, is handed over to coach operator Arnold Reisen in the German town of Dietmannsried, near Kempten im Allgäu, in February

The "Busworld" show in the Belgian city of Kortrijk is the setting for the brand to launch its new Setra TopClass 400 generation of vehicles. Following a comprehensive facelift, these touring coaches now offer considerable improvements in quality, engineering, safety and comfort

Setra supplies its 500th S 431 DT double-decker coach, which goes to coach operator Voyages Demy Cars in Luxembourg. Another milestone vehicle, the 500th S 411 HD touring coach, goes to coach operator Fischwenger in the Austrian town of Strasswalchen, near Salzburg

The Setra Show 2007 is the first to take place in the new Setra CustomerCentre in Neu-Ulm, which is also the home of the company's state-of-the-art DesignCentre

2008
The 10,000th touring coach in the 400 series, an S 416 GT-HD/2, is handed over to the Turkish coach fleet operator Varan Turizm

In August, tour operator Avanti Reisen becomes the first coach company in the world to drive from Germany to China in a touring coach, a Setra S 415 HDH

At the IAA International Commercial Vehicle Show of this year, the brand has ten exhibits from its current product range on show. These include the world premiere of the S 419 GT-HD ComfortClass 400 model 

The low-floor S 415 NF MultiClass 400 bus is voted "Bus of the Year 2009"

Setra supplies its first touring coach fitted with the advanced emergency braking system Active Brake Assist (ABA). The owner of the S 416 HDH from the new Setra TopClass 400 series is tour operator Reisedienst Bölck

2009
At the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) show, in Orlando, Florida, Setra launches two versions of the S 417 designed specifically for the US market. At the same time, the 25th anniversary of the brand's sales and marketing activities in the US are marked on the stand with the display of an S 6 from 1955

2010
Setra hands over its 2500th bus from the MultiClass 400 series. The vehicle goes into service with German bus operator Albtal-Verkehrsgesellschaft

The 4000th ComfortClass 400 vehicle is delivered to coach operator Berr in the Upper Bavarian town of Bruckmühl

The facelifted touring coach Setra TopClass 417 is launched at the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) show in Las Vegas, Nevada

The 20th anniversary of the start-up of sales and marketing activities in the former East Germany
At the IAA International Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover, Setra exhibits its current product range, together with a new generation of passenger seats

2011
Setra celebrates a double anniversary: 60 years of Setra, 100 years of expertise in the bus and coach industry. A Special Edition of the TopClass, limited to just 60 units, is launched to mark the occasion 

 The United Motorcoach Association (UMA) show in Tampa, Florida, sees the launch of the new Setra ComfortClass 407 touring coach, built to typical American design specifications

The Ulm-based bus and coach brand celebrates its 60th anniversary with a number of events. 2011 also marks a century since the start of bus and coach building in Ulm

 Mid-March sees the handover of the 100,000th Setra vehicle since the brand was founded. The TopClass S 416 HDH is a member of the Special Edition which Setra unveiled in its anniversary year

 At "Busworld" 2001 in the Belgian city of Kortrijk, Setra launches eight coaches in the current model series, including the ComfortClass Final Edition in the guise of an S 415 GT-HD

2012
The brand delivers its 1000th Setra TopClass 400 double-deck touring coach. New owner is the Austrian Dr. Richard group, Central Europe's largest private bus and coach operator

Electronic Stability Program ESP comes as standard in the US touring coaches from 2012 onwards. The bus and coach brand within Daimler AG attends the UMA Motorcoach Expo in Long Beach with two coaches. The show stand was host to a TopClass S 417 and a ComfortClass S 407













Credits: Daimler AG / Setra S431 dt | Facebook

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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100th new Setra bus delivered to Latvia

By | Published Thursday, 22 March 2012

The Ulm-based bus and coach brand Setra has delivered its 100th new vehicle since 1999 to Latvia. The Setra S 415 UL was handed over to the bus operator "Talsu Autotransports" together with a second S 415 UL from the MultiClass 400 series. The two buses from the current generation of Setra inter-urban vehicles are equipped with 49 seats. With integrated service sets, double-glazing, adjustable backrests on the "Route" seats, air conditioning, a destination display and a pushchair space opposite the centre entry, they meet all the requirements of the Latvian transport ministry.


Setra MultiClass buses connect Talsi with Riga

In future the two vehicles will be in regular inter-urban service around the city of Talsi, where the company is based, and on the roughly 120-kilometre long route to the Latvian capital Riga.

The bus operator Talsu Autotransports has been a partner of Daimler's Ulm-based bus and coach brand for ten years, and has vehicles from all three Setra product families - TopClass 400, ComfortClass 400 and MultiClass 400 – in its fleet. The company not only services the local and regional inter-urban routes, but also uses its vehicles for tours throughout Europe on behalf of travel agencies.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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GLOBE 2013: Daimler Buses Launches Growth and Efficiency Offensive

By | Published Tuesday, 13 March 2012

Daimler Buses achieved its second-best sales result ever in 2011, selling a total of 39,740 vehicles or 2% more than in the previous year. The division achieved this result despite difficult sales conditions for complete buses. The only time that sales were even higher was in 2008, when almost 40,600 units were delivered. As a result, Daimler Buses continues to be the world’s leading supplier of buses weighing more than 8 tons GVW.


311,000 buses were sold worldwide, an increase of 2% compared to the previous year. Whereas business was booming particularly in Latin America, the bus market in Western Europe remained in a slump because of the financial and debt crisis. Market development was similarly negative in North America, which, like its Western European counterparts, suffered from public sector budget constraints and therefore from substantially fewer calls for bids.

Strong sales increase in growth markets

The main reason for the rise in sales at Daimler Buses was the increased demand in Latin America, where the division boosted sales of Mercedes-Benz brand chassis by 8% to 25,000 units. Sales were also buoyed by purchases made earlier than planned due to the introduction of the Euro V emissions standard in Brazil in 2012. The market share of Daimler Buses in Latin America remained at a high level of around 43% in 2011. Substantial increases were posted in Mexico as well. Business was also good in Turkey, where sales rose by 55% to the record figure of 1,100 buses.

By contrast, Daimler Buses was unable to buck the downward trend in Western Europe and North America. As a result, sales dropped in Western Europe by 17% to 5,900 vehicles and chassis. Sales of city buses once again declined steeply, as the public sector continued to be negatively influenced by budget restraints. The division sold 600 buses in North America, or almost one third less than in 2010. Budgetary constraints were also the defining factor in this market.

“In 2011 we kept pace with the global market as a whole,” says Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses. “We captured an impressive 12% of the global market, which makes us the world’s Number One bus supplier. More specifically, we clearly maintained our leading position in the core markets.”

Daimler Buses’ revenues and earnings both declined in 2011. At €4.4 billion (2010: €4.6 billion), revenues were slightly lower than in the prior year. These figures are the result of two contrary developments. Whereas the demand for chassis rose substantially, it dropped considerably for complete buses, which generate significantly more revenue per bus. This development therefore had an even bigger impact on earnings than on revenues, and EBIT declined from €215 million to €162 million. “2011 was clearly a chassis year, while the business with complete buses was very sluggish, particularly in Europe,” comments Schick.

"We've got the right strategy"

Even though Daimler Buses’ return on sales dropped to 3.7% in 2011 (2010: 4.7%), the division’s target for 2013 remains at 6%. “We have the right strategy, and we will systematically pursue it,” says Schick. A key element of this strategy is the GLOBE 2013 growth and efficiency offensive. This “fitness program” will be rolled out at all locations and along the entire value chain. “We will leave no stone unturned and make sure that nothing is omitted,” states Schick.

One of the aims of this strategy is to more strongly interlink the European production network, which has locations in Germany, Turkey, and the Czech Republic. The two German bus plants in Mannheim and Neu-Ulm will remain an integral part of this network, which is why the division invested extensively there in recent years as well as in Hosdere, Turkey.

“GLOBE 2013 will further increase the competitiveness of the German locations. We are making Mannheim and Neu-Ulm sustainably fit for the future. Daimler Buses is the only major bus manufacturer to remain faithful to Germany as a production location,” says Schick.

As part of GLOBE 2013, Daimler Buses will exploit existing growth potential in its traditional markets and further expand its business operations into new ones. In response to the introduction of the Euro VI emissions standard, the division is launching a product offensive in the city bus segment as well as in the coach market. Daimler Buses’ Travego Edition 1 is the first Euro VI-compliant coach. “Our products precisely meet our customers’ wishes, and we will systematically exploit growth potential,” says Schick.

City buses in India — chassis in China

Big growth opportunities are also offered by new markets such as India and China. After having introduced two travel coach models in India since 2008, Daimler Buses is now launching the first Mercedes-Benz city bus there. India is the world’s second-largest bus market, with a current volume of about 46,000 buses per year. Experts predict that this volume will grow to around 80,000 units in 2020.

By then, the bus market in China is expected to increase from its current level of more than 100,000 units to around 150,000 units. Daimler Buses is taking a multi-track approach in order to exploit the opportunities in China. The division will begin selling chassis in the country this year. In addition, Daimler Buses will talk with the Chinese company Foton about joint projects. Foton and Daimler are already cooperating in the truck sector. The two companies are partners in the joint venture company Beijing Foton Daimler Automotive Co., Ltd., which produces Auman brand medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks in China.

Daimler Buses expects sales to be negatively affected by the introduction of the Euro V emissions standard in Brazil this year, whereas business will probably improve slightly in Western Europe.
Credits: Daimler AG

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17 Setra touring coaches for Belgium

By | Published Wednesday, 25 January 2012

Belgian coach operator Voyages Léonard is giving its fleet of vehicles a facelift with 17 Setra TopClass touring coaches. The coaches form part of an order for a total of 32 new vehicles which the Sales-Lentz Group has placed with the Daimler brand. Luxembourg's largest bus company became the Belgian tour operator's new owner in January 2011.


"We are proud to have been granted an opportunity to support this highly significant cooperation for the region of Luxembourg and Belgium with our vehicles," said Lothar Holder, Setra brand spokesman at EvoBus GmbH, when the first ten coaches were handed over at the Setra customer centre in Neu-Ulm. "This handover also highlights the true partnership and close collaboration which have existed between our brand and Voyages Léonard for over 40 years now."

At the handover ceremony, which was also attended by a large group of employees, tour guides and customers who had travelled to Neu-Ulm to witness the event, the two managers, Daniel and Pascal Léonard, took receipt of five S 431 DT double-decker coaches as well as the company's first high-deck coaches from the current Setra TopClass generation, in the guise of four S 416 HDH coaches and one S 415 HD. With features such as glass roofs and multichannel sound systems, the HD and HDH vehicles offer superlative touring comfort. They additionally all incorporate the most cutting-edge safety systems available on the market. A further seven vehicles are to be delivered in the course of this year.

Founded in 1946, the Belgian company is currently run by the family's third generation, operating in the fields of coach transfer, coach, air and self-drive tours and travel sales. Voyages Léonard currently has a workforce of around 80 and operates a 30-strong fleet consisting exclusively of Setra coaches.

Credits: Daimler AG

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1500th Setra coach for Sweden

By | Published Thursday, 1 December 2011

Landmark figure in Scandinavia for the Setra Bus and Coach Unit. The Ulm-based Daimler brand delivered its 1500th new vehicle to Sweden. Managing directors Lena Persson and Lennart Robertsson received the milestone vehicle, a Setra ComfortClass S 416 GT-HD, at the Customer Centre in Neu-Ulm from Michael Frey, Head of Market Management Setra Export Markets.


With the new vehicle the company "Karl Everts", which was taken over by the entrepreneurs Persson and Robertsson four years ago, currently has five Setra coaches in service. Lena Persson: "What we have come to appreciate above all about Setra is the high quality along with the comprehensive aftersales service." The coaches owned by the company based in Trollhättan, Sweden, which has been a partner of Setra since 1976, are on the road throughout the whole of Europe.

With its ComfortClass touring coaches, Setra has set the standard throughout Europe in the field of combined touring and occasional-service operations. Two trade magazines awarded the "Green Coach Award" a few weeks ago to the12-metre version, the S 415 GT-HD, as the most economical touring coach at the "Busworld" show in Kortrijk, Belgium.

Setra is now providing the S 415 GT-HD, the 13-metre-long two-axle version S 416 GT-HD and the 15-metre-long three-axle model S 419 GT-HD with a rear entrance. This configuration provides the touring coach with extra room for a generous luggage compartment, a continuous passenger compartment and for a spacious rear galley.

Source: Daimler AG

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

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Ebneter AG takes delivery of 50th Setra coach

By | Published Saturday, 19 November 2011

The delivery of an S 415 GT-HD at the end of October was a special cause for celebration for the company Gebrüder Ebneter AG in the Swiss town of St. Gallen. The Setra ComfortClass coach was the 50th new vehicle from the production line in Neu-Ulm to come to the long-established, family-run company. With the arrival of this latest two-axle model the tour operator, currently run by the third generation of the same family, now operates a total of nine buses from the Daimler brand.


The company was originally established as a greengrocer's business by Johann Ebneter, grandfather of the current managing directors Stefan and Urs Ebneter, in 1933. The next generation of the family, represented by their father, Hans Ebneter, developed the company as a transport and travel operator, buying the company's first Setra bus in 1956. "The compact shape and integral body construction of the Setra S 6, together with its new-style rear-mounted engine, offered a very convincing package in every respect", reminisced Hans Ebneter at the handover of the milestone vehicle at the company's premises in the St. Gallen suburb of St. Georgen.

This loyalty to Setra remains part and parcel of the company's activities to this day. The family-run company, which also undertakes furniture removals in and around St. Gallen, has remained faithful to the Ulm bus brand's coaches over the years and through all the various model series. All in all, the company now has one of the largest and most up-to-date fleets of buses in the whole of eastern Switzerland. Gebrüder Ebneter AG's extensive brochure encompasses day trips as well as city tours and cultural mini-breaks throughout Europe.

Source: Daimler AG

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

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Organisers of UEFA Euro 2012 go for Setra

By | Published Monday, 24 October 2011

The organisers of the 2012 European Football Championship to be hosted jointly by Poland and the Ukraine from the 8th June to 1st July have put their trust in Setra coaches from Daimler AG.


Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses: "We are happy and proud to be able to support one of the most important international top-class sporting events with our top-class quality from Ulm."

During the tournament 25 first-class touring coaches of the Ulm-based bus and coach brand will be used for the transport requirements of the 16 teams, their support staff, officials and guests. Transportation will be provided by a consortium formed by two bus and coach operators, “Sindbad” and “RafTrans”. In coordination with the European Football Association, UEFA, the consortium chose the safety and quality guaranteed by the coaches from Neu-Ulm.

Coach operator Sindbad is based in the Polish city of Opole and has commissioned a total of 96 new Setra coaches for its international regular services since 1998. Like Sindbad, Warsaw-based company RafTrans, founded in 1991, also provides transportation for international travel and business groups. Sindbad and RafTrans have ordered a total of twelve S 416 GT-HD and eight S 415 GT-HD Setra ComfortClass coaches for transportation of the teams. An S 417 GT-HD, an S 419 GT-HD and an S 431 DT double-decker, as well as an S 417 HDH and an S 415 HDH Setra TopClass will all be available for officials and VIPs for the duration of the championship.

Lothar Holder, Director of Sales of the Setra Bus and Coach Unit at Evobus GmbH is pleased at the two coach operators’ decision for Setra: “I am proud that we are able to support the organisers of the 2012 European Football Championship with the Setra brand, because Setra and football have one thing in common: they are both highly emotional!”

The matches in the 2012 European Football Championship will be played in the soccer arenas of the Polish cities of Warsaw, Poznań, Wroclaw, Gdansk (Danzig) and in the Ukranian cities of Kiev, Donetsk, Lviv and Kharkiv.

The Setra brand has already proved itself in international football championships: in the 2006 World Cup in Germany and the European championship in Switzerland and Austria in 2008. In these two cases the comprehensive Omniplus offers were a co-determining factor for the consortium’s decision in favour of Setra: this was also the case with the decision in the 2012 football championship to be co-hosted by Poland and the Ukraine.

Source: Daimler AG

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

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The Setra brand at a click

By | Published Friday, 21 October 2011


The Setra bus and coach brand presents itself with a new look on the Internet. The newly designed website www.setra.de goes online in good time for the “Busworld 2011” bus and coach show taking place from 21 to 26. October 2011 in the Belgian city of Kortrijk (Courtray). A luminous, friendly, background and a wealth of meticulously prepared information bring the openness and transparence of the Daimler brand to the foreground with even greater emphasis in this jubilee year of Setra’s 60th anniversary.


In addition to the comprehensive services offered, focus is on the three model series TopClass, ComfortClass and MultiClass. With a single click you can study on screen all the technical facts and figures of each individual vehicle swiftly, conveniently and with a clearly-structured layout. Large-format images and videos underscore the exclusivity of the Setra buses and coaches, providing a lively presence in the data world of today.

For Lothar Holder, Sales Manager of Setra Bus and Coach Unit, EvoBus GmbH, the new design of the website is coupled with new transparence for the Internet users: “with the new web pages we present a concise overview of our vehicles and of the steadily growing services offered, in a fully new dimension. All relevant facts and figures are tailored precisely to the requirements of bus and coach operators, journalists, partners and friends of the Setra family.”

At www.setra.de a time-consuming search for the desired information is unnecessary. On the homepage visitors will find current news, new highlights and important quick access links. A navigation bar conducts visitors in a clear, well-structured manner to the relevant contact persons in customer advice and Setra sales, After Sales and the Omniplus services brand, naturally all with their respective links. Apart from this, data and facts from the history of the buses with self-supporting body are presented in a clearly arranged manner. In addition to the tried-and-tested route planner, visitors to the site have an extensive download and service sector at their disposal where they can download, among other things, current brochures and data sheets, and where they can view and order exclusive offers from the Setra Collection.




Source: Daimler AG

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

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Daimler Buses further expands its global presence and defends its leading position in the bus business

By | Published Friday, 9 September 2011


In the first six months of the year, Daimler Buses sold 18,308 Mercedes Benz, Setra, and Orion brand buses and chassis worldwide (January-June 2010: 19,226). During this period, the unit posted revenues of slightly more than €2 billion (January-June 2010: €2.22 billion).


“Thanks to our global presence, Daimler Buses can easily deal with disparate economic developments in different regions,” said Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses, at the press conference during the run up to Busworld 2011. “At the moment, we are, for example, benefiting from the dynamic growth being experienced by markets such as Brazil, Mexico, and Turkey. This growth enables us to partially offset the continued low demand in Europe and North America. The most important thing, however, is that Daimler Buses continues to lead the way in the bus sector. And we will therefore continue to rigorously follow this path.”

Daimler Buses puts in an impressive performance in Latin America

In the first half of 2011, the bus markets developed in very different ways. Demand increased appreciably in Latin America, India, and Turkey, leading to substantial market growth. In the key growth market of Brazil, Daimler’s bus division maintained sales at last year’s high level, selling a total of around 8,900 units. That makes Daimler Buses the undisputed market leader in the country, with a market share of over 43 percent. Sales in Mexico even increased by about 27 percent to more than 1,430 units. Daimler Buses posted its highest growth in South America in Argentina, where vehicle sales rose by 24 percent to around 2,000 units. In Turkey, Daimler Buses delivered almost twice as many travel coaches to customers as in the first half of last year, increasing sales to just under 700 units.

The picture is different on the European and North American bus markets. In both of these regions, the challenging economic developments of 2009 and 2010 continue to affect bus sales. With regard to Europe, Schick stated that “the economic crisis of 2009 continues to impact the European bus business, especially in the city bus segment. We’ll reach the low point this year — two years later than in other sectors. The reason for this is simple: Budgetary constraints in the public sector resulted in significantly fewer purchases.”

Despite the difficult market conditions in Europe, Daimler Buses saw sales in the intercity bus and travel coach segments increase. Compared to the same period last year, sales of Mercedes-Benz and Setra brand vehicles rose slightly by three percent to 2,145 units, due primarily to high sales figures in Turkey. Several major orders for city buses, including the delivery of 300 Mercedes-Benz Citaros to Singapore, have helped consolidate the results for the first half of the year.

Daimler Buses continues to pursue its growth strategy

In full-year 2011, Daimler Buses expects that global demand will primarily come from Latin America, India, and Turkey. At the same time, the bus manufacturer does not yet expect the European market to experience a major rebound.

In view of this situation, Schick stated that “Daimler Buses has for many years focused on pursuing a global strategy with the clear goal of achieving growth in traditional as well as in new markets. We will reach this goal due to our outstanding products, continuous efficiency increases, and the fact that we have the best employees in the industry. I’m therefore convinced that we will remain the number one company in the bus business and attain a positive overall result in 2011, despite it being a challenging year for buses.”

To enable Daimler Buses to continue to set the pace in traditional markets and forge ahead with its strategic pillar for “Growth in established markets,” the unit has thoroughly enhanced its product range’s flagship vehicle. This vehicle, the new Mercedes-Benz Citaro city bus, was unveiled in May. With sales of approximately 32,000 units, the first generation of the Citaro was Europe’s most successful city bus of all time. Daimler Buses is building on this success story with the new vehicle, which sets new standards for quality, safety, efficiency, comfort, and design. In addition, the new Citaro is very convincing when it comes to fuel consumption and service.

In Latin America, Daimler Buses is focusing its further growth on the chassis business and consistent expansion of its product range. These chassis from Mercedes-Benz comply with local Euro IV and Euro V emission limits.

With regard to its strategic pillar for “Growth in new markets,” Daimler Buses is giving India priority because it is an important future market. In the area of travel coaches, Daimler Buses has been cooperating with the Indian body builder firm Sutlej since 2007. Daimler Buses will achieve further growth in India with a new generation of city buses, which it will introduce to the market in early 2012.

According to Schick, the so-called Next 11 countries, such as Indonesia, also offer potential for profitable growth. “The Indonesian market has already been recording strong growth over the last few years through the modernization of urban bus fleets and infrastructure,” he said. “In fact, market volume in that country will nearly double over the next eight years. Our market share in the country is about 40 percent and we’re very confident that we’ll be able to benefit from growth there in the coming years as well.”

In the area of “Technological leadership,” Daimler Buses continues to be the driving force in the bus sector. North America, for example, is home to the world’s biggest fleet of hybrid buses (more than 3,000 units), all of which come from Daimler Buses. In Europe, more than 50 Mercedes-Benz Citaro BlueTec Hybrid urban buses will be in operation by the end of the year in cities such as Stuttgart, Hamburg, Krefeld, Dresden, Muelheim, Rotterdam, and Milan. In addition, 11 fuel cell buses will enter operation before the end of the year.

Daimler Buses at Busworld 2011: The first Euro VI-compliant travel coach is supplied by Mercedes-Benz!

Daimler Buses will present a total of 13 Mercedes-Benz and Setra bus and coach models at Busworld in Kortrijk, Belgium, the largest bus show of 2011. The Mercedes-Benz stand will celebrate the world premiere of the Mercedes-Benz Travego “Edition 1”, which is the first travel coach to meet the Euro VI emissions standard. Featuring a new and powerful BlueEfficiency engine, a new transmission, and a new driver area, the coach will also boast the Attention Assist safety system, which is found in no other travel coach in the world.

Just as spectacular as the new Travego is the new-generation Mercedes-Benz Citaro urban bus, which will be having its motor show debut at Busworld in Kortrijk. Mercedes-Benz Buses will also celebrate the 125th anniversary of the invention of the automobile by Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler by introducing the attractive “125! years of innovation” special edition model of the high-deck Tourismo travel coach. The Sprinter City 77 — the current flagship vehicle of Mercedes-Benz’ minibus lineup — will also be represented at the stand. The vehicle is 8.7 meters long and can transport up to 40 passengers.

The Setra brand will be represented at the bus show by eight vehicles from all three of its production series, thus demonstrating its leading position in the travel coach and regular service intercity bus segments. Highlights of the show at the Setra stand will include the successful ComfortClass 400, and the MultiClass 400 S 415 H high-floor bus and S 416 H. The focus inside is on an innovative, state-of-the-art infotainment system for satellite TV and radio. Screens are built into the backs of the passenger seats, as well as behind the driver, at the entrance, and into the back wall of the onboard galley. The image from the driver camera can be connected to these screens as well. In addition, Setra will present the S 415 GT-HD “Final Edition” to the trade visitors at Busworld. The vehicle has high-quality interior appointments as well as a comprehensive equipment package and exclusive side trim made of brushed stainless steel.

To mark its 60th anniversary, the Setra brand presented the limited “Special Edition” vehicle in a number of different equipment variants at the beginning of the year. A variant that will be shown in Kortrijk will be the TopClass S 416 HDH with displaced seating.

Omniplus provides a unique range of bus-related services, including professional maintenance and repair work, efficient driver and service training programs, a broad selection of pre-owned vehicles, and customized financial services. Omniplus operates more than 600 authorized service centers in Europe, making it the largest bus-specific service network on the continent.

In Kortrijk, the service brand will present several new offers for bus operators, including a new, graduated ServiceCard concept, and the BusMobility package, which provides all-round breakdown assistance in 40 European countries. Thanks to a dense network of service centers, the mobility package minimizes the customer’s financial risks and ensures downtimes are short no matter when a breakdown occurs.

Daimler Buses is the world’s leading manufacturer of buses and coaches and employs about 17,000 men and women.



Source: Daimler AG

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