Daimler Buses is updating its Setra and Mercedes-Benz coach portfolio, with new engines, transmissions, electronic architecture and driver assistance systems due to enter production from 2027.
The changes will improve powertrain efficiency, vehicle connectivity and driver support. Depending on the model and configuration, fuel consumption could be reduced by up to 6%.
New Engines and Transmissions
The updated coach range will use advanced versions of Daimler Truck’s OM 470 and OM 471 diesel engines. Changes to the combustion process and cooled exhaust gas recirculation are intended to reduce fuel consumption, while a new coating for the diesel particulate filter and SCR system is designed to improve the durability of the exhaust aftertreatment system.
The engines will be combined with new ZF transmissions. The Mercedes-Benz Tourismo will receive the ZF EcoLife CoachLine automatic transmission, while the Setra ComfortClass and TopClass will use the ZF TraXon 2 Coach automated manual transmission.
The transmissions incorporate functions including ZF’s TopoDyn topography-dependent shift strategy and Daimler’s Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC). These systems use information about the road and route to adjust transmission and powertrain operation.
Daimler Buses also says that with these modernisations, oil change intervals can be extended to up to 480,000 kilometres or four years, depending on operating conditions. Meanwhile, an updated braking strategy is intended to reduce wear on the service brakes.
New Electronic Architecture
A new electronic architecture will provide the basis for additional driver assistance systems and digital services.
It will also support over-the-air software updates, allowing operators to install certain updates remotely rather than taking vehicles to a workshop, which could reduce vehicle downtime.
The architecture will also support additional digital functions through the company’s OMNIplus ON platform, including navigation data, live traffic information and connected traffic warnings.
Navigation data can be integrated into Predictive Powertrain Control, allowing the system to account for route characteristics and topography when managing the vehicle’s speed and transmission.
Additional Driver Assistance Systems
The updated coaches will receive a wider range of safety and driver assistance functions.
Active Sideguard Assist 3 is designed to provide support during turning and lane-changing manoeuvres. In critical situations, the system can intervene with targeted braking.
Active Cross Traffic Assist monitors for crossing vehicles and can apply the brakes when required.
Active Drive Assist 2 supports speed, following distance and lane keeping, while Active Power Steering 3 adjusts steering assistance according to driving conditions and vehicle speed.
Other additions include Electronic Park Brake Control and Active Brake Assist 6 Plus on specified models.
Daimler Buses is also offering a 360-degree camera system using four cameras to provide an all-round view of the vehicle. A full HD panoramic camera provides additional visibility, while an integrated cleaning system is available for the rear camera.
Updated Driver’s Workspace
The Multimedia Cockpit Interactive introduces a redesigned driver’s workspace with a high-resolution main display, touchscreen and multifunction steering wheel.
The operating system includes configurable favourites menus, allowing drivers to access frequently used functions more directly.
The cockpit also provides an interface between the vehicle’s systems and digital services, including the integration of navigation information with Predictive Powertrain Control.
The updated technology will be introduced across selected Setra and Mercedes-Benz coaches from 2027.
The Setra models covered include the Setra 500 HD ComfortClass, Setra 500 HDH TopClass and S 531 DT. Mercedes-Benz models receiving the updates include the Travego SHD and Tourismo RHD.
The S 531 DT will also receive chassis and interior improvements and an updated heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system.
