Daimler : World premiere at the Busworld Kortrijk: The Mercedes-Benz Citaro NGT – clean and quiet, economical and powerful

The number one among urban regular-service buses is now even more attractive: in the new Citaro NGT, Mercedes-Benz offers an attractive alternative to the diesel-powered Citaro. The Citaro NGT (Natural Gas Technology) impresses with its quiet running and reduced CO2 emissions - both are crucial advantages in the heavy traffic of city centres. Practical people will be convinced furthermore by the Citaro NGT's low weight and a correspondingly large number of passenger seats, the engine's strong performance, low fuel consumption and extended maintenance intervals. Mercedes-Benz offers the new powertrain variant as a Citaro NGT solo bus and as a Citaro G NGT articulated bus. The Citaro NGT can be operated on natural gas or on renewable natural gas - in the latter case, the Citaro NGT is actually virtually CO2 neutral.

Mercedes-Benz steps on the gas: clean and quiet through the city

The Mercedes-Benz Bus and Coach unit moves into high gear: the new Citaro NGT with natural gas engine sets standards in terms of environmental friendliness. The Citaro NGT is also approved for the use of renewable natural gas pursuant to DIN 51624 without restrictions. This makes the carbon footprinteven more attractive because in this case the natural gas bus operates virtually CO2 neutral.

The natural gas engine has even lower noise levels than the already smooth-running and quiet OM 936 diesel engine, noticeable over the entire engine rev range. Depending on the driving status, its noise emissions are up to 4 dB(A) lower, which corresponds to the subjectively perceived noise level almost being cut by half.

Both factors - low CO2 emissions and noise levels - predestine the new Citaro NGT especially for use in packed city centres and for driving through residential areas.

Specialised market segment of around 1000 natural gas urban buses

The segment of urban buses in Western Europe amounts to about 10,500 new registrations a year on average and remains on a steady level. The highly specialised European market for urban buses with a natural gas powertrain presently comprises just under 1000 units a year. Mercedes-Benz expects this number to increase further in future in light of the discussions about the environmental burden in population centres or about the preservation of resources. The very fact that the Mercedes-Benz Citaro NGT is available with a state-of-the-art natural gas engine is also expected to stimulate demand.

Distinguishing feature is the striking cover

The Citaro with natural gas drive is available as a Citaro NGT solo bus and as a Citaro G NGT articulated bus. Both can be identified by the striking cover for the gas bottles on the roof. It increases the overall height of the natural gas buses to exactly 3389 mm. All other dimensions remain unchanged from the diesel-powered Citaro. For reason of weight distribution, the gas bottles are positioned above the front axle on the solo bus and above the centre axle on the articulated bus.

The cover is made of polyurethane plastic and is fitted with an aluminium frame mounted on the inside. It is attached to the roof via a rail system, has a side service door for easy access to the valves of the bottles and can also be popped up completely.

Lightweight and robust gas bottles made of composite material

Under the cover are the newly developed gas bottles of the Citaro NGT. They are made of a composite material with a plastic core, a casing made of carbon fibres and - a new feature - additional glass fibres. This combination of materials is very lightweight on one hand and highly robust on the other. The gas bottles are filled from the engine compartment of the bus as standard. Optionally, the filler neck can be repositioned above the front right wheel arch, which corresponds to the position of the filler neck of the diesel-powered Citaro.

At the same time, the capacity of the new-generation gas bottles was increased considerably from 190 to 227 l. The advantage: the number of containers can be reduced while the overall volume remains the same. Compared with the predecessor model, the Citaro NGT therefore requires one gas bottle less while offering an unchanged operating range. This results in noticeable weight savings of 15 to 45 kg, depending on the number of gas bottles.

That number can in turn be specified as the application demands. Two different covers are available, which hold either four to six gas bottles or seven to eight as needed. In practice, the Citaro NGT has the same operating range as a diesel-powered Citaro.

Low extra weight means more passengers

The additional weight of the Citaro NGT resulting primarily from the gas bottles has been reduced considerably compared with the predecessor. On a solo bus, this additional weight will be just 485 kg. Apart from the new gas bottle system, this also comes courtesy of the considerably more compact engine.

The passenger compartment of the Citaro is not affected at all by the natural gas drive. On the contrary: due to the weight savings, the passenger capacity of the Citaro NGT is significantly higher than that of the predecessor model. The Citaro NGT solo bus in standard specification now transports up to 96 instead of previously 93 passengers. The Citaro G NGT articulated bus has even a capacity of 153 passengers, up from 149 passengers previously.

New M 936 G gas engine: textbook example of downsizing

The new Mercedes-Benz M 936 G natural gas engine with a displacement of 7.7 l is presently the most compact natural gas engine in its class. It delivers the performance of a diesel engine while setting standards for noise and exhaust emissions. The engine is especially compact and lightweight. Weighing just 747 kg including the primary catalytic converter, it is about 230 kg or almost 25 percent lighter than the predecessor engine with a displacement of 12.0 l, making this engine a textbook example of successful downsizing.

The Mercedes-Benz M 936 G natural gas engine is based on the state-of-the-art OM 936 turbodiesel.engine. This engine is already in successful use on board the Citaro and Citaro G Euro VI. The vertically installed six-cylinder mono-fuel engine runs on compressed natural gas (CNG). It has an output of 222 kW (302 hp) at 2000 rpm while delivering a peak torque of 1200 Nm consistently from 1200 to 1600 rpm. To some extent, it remains well below the Euro VI emission limits.

Natural gas engine as powerful as a diesel and even cleaner

Such figures, in combination with its impressive power delivery, place the single-stage turbocharged engine on a par with its diesel-powered counterpart. In the main operating range, the power and torque curves of the two engine types are congruent from idle speed to around 1500 rpm. Above this, the natural gas engine actually delivers a slight advantage in terms of power and torque. Only from revs exceeding 2000 rpm is the diesel engine superior to the natural gas engine - levels that an urban bus does not reach in real-world scenarios.

At the same time, the natural gas engine from Mercedes-Benz raises the bar for environmental friendliness particularly high, because the CO2 emissions of a natural gas engine are up to 20 percent below those of a diesel engine. Using renewable natural gas to power the bus makes the carbon footprinteven more attractive because in that case a natural gas bus operates virtually CO2 neutral.

Specially matched to the needs of CNG operation

The cylinder block and four-valve cylinder head of the M 936 G were adopted from the diesel engine and merely adapted for operation on CNG. Newly developed items are the turbocharger, the charge-air ducting, the ignition system and the mixture formation with a water-cooled exhaust gas recirculation system. The ignition system in a natural gas engine is identical to that in a petrol engine. The M 936 G uses spark plugs with pencil ignition coils. They are housed in the same installation space that accommodate the fuel injectors in a diesel engine. The piston bowl now has a different geometry.

Clean combustion with high output and low emissions

Like a modern petrol engine, the natural gas engine operates with a stoichiometric air-to-fuel ratio of lambda = 1. This means that there is precisely the amount of air required for complete combustion of the fuel. This is also the range where the catalytic converter achieves its maximum purification effect. In the M 936 G, this results in especially clean combustion combined with a high power output and low pollutant emissions.The new combustion process significantly reduces NOx emissions compared with the predecessor, for example.

A turbocharger with asymmetrical turbine geometry and two wastegate valves ensures an excellent engine throttle response and the supply of the cooled exhaust gas recirculation system at the same time. Due to the practically soot-free combustion, the engine, unlike a diesel engine, does not require the customary SCR technology with AdBlue injection or a particulate filter. As in a petrol engine, emission control for a natural gas engine is by means of a three-way catalytic converter. It is comprised of a primary catalytic converter with two oxygen sensors and a main catalytic converter.

The new M 936 G natural gas engine has already been proving its merits in the distribution and waste disposal vehicle Mercedes-Benz Econic for a year. The base engine for the Citaro NGT is identical. Due to the basic dimensions being identical to the original Mercedes-Benz OM 936 engine, the packaging at the rear of the Citaro is largely the same. The modified installation position only required adapting components such as the oil pan and the belt drives, the fitting for the water, the air compressor, the hydraulic pump and the air deflectors - common adaptations for a bus engine.

Fuel consumption reduced by about 15 to 20 percent

The new natural gas engine is extremely efficient. In concert with more intelligent control of the ancillaries, this results in a savings potential of around 15 to 20 percent for the Citaro NGT over the predecessor model. Even more energy savings can be expected in conjunction with the optional energy recovery module.

The intervals for changing the engine oil and spark plugs have been extended substantially in comparison with the previous engine, from 45,000 km to 60,000 km. Based on this practical metric, this means that a Citaro NGT driven for a typical urban-bus distance of about 60,000 km a year only has to be taken in for servicing once every 12 months.

Automatic transmission with torque converter matched to the engine characteristics

The power is transferred as usual by automatic transmissions with torque converter from ZF and Voith. The shift points and the use of the torque converter have been specially tailored to suit the new gas engine's characteristics.The same applies to the available final drive ratios. Due to the different engine speeds, the development engineers have chosen standard final drive ratios that are one step shorter than those of the diesel engine in both cases, ergo i = 6.19 for the solo bus and i = 6.98 for the articulated bus.

Tested extensively in cold, heat and at altitude

The new Citaro NGT meets the highest standards right from the start - including on reliability. To this end, the development engineers put it through arduous tests under the most demanding conditions for three years. This included winter testing in Scandinavia in biting cold and summer testing in Milan and Soelden, Tyrol. That's where it simultaneously underwent altitude testing at elevations of up to 1600 m above sea level. Endurance testing was conducted in addition. The testing also represents a logistical achievement because the supply of natural gas is not assured in all of the classic test regions. All in all, the three test vehicles successfully covered a distance of some 130,000 km. Deliveries of the new Citaro NGT will start as early as autumn 2015. Full series production will start in spring of next year.

Citaro NGT - a true Citaro through and through

With more than 7000 vehicles since its introduction in 2011, the current model series of the Citaro has not only continued the unmatched success of the predecessor model, it has even expanded on it. The basis for this success lies in the outstanding characteristics of the low-floor urban bus.

Eye-catching features include the Citaro's friendly face with large, almond-shaped headlamps and a rounded front end. This conceals a crash element to protect the driver. The body shell is especially rigid anyway and is consequently safe and nonetheless lightweight. The window line along the sides is low, three-dimensionally formed wheel arches made of glass-fibre-reinforced plastic give a dramatic effect to the bodywork. The rear was redesigned in connection with the launch of the diesel engine for Euro VI emissions standards in 2012.

At 320 mm, the entrances of the Citaro NGT are low at all doors while the passenger compartment captivates with its bright and friendly nature. From the lighting concept to the oval grab rails - the Citaro is intelligently conceived down to the last detail. The same applies to the raised cockpit with rear-hinged door and an ergonomically perfect instrument panel. The optionally available Electronic Stability Program ESP celebrated its premiere in low-floor urban regular-service buses in the Citaro. A host of measures lowers fuel consumption and maintenance costs.

Lowered entrances, a controlled air compressor and an increase in the system pressure for the suspension and the door operating system: all these measures lower fuel consumption. An outstanding feature is the one-of-a-kind energy recovery module. double-layer condensers called supercaps supplement the batteries by storing electrical power. In so doing, they support the active battery/alternator management system.

Latest advancements: a shining example with LED headlamps

In addition, the new Citaro NGT fully benefits from the latest advancements of the Citaro. Optional LED main headlamps are a new feature. The light cone of LED headlamps can be defined with special precision. Their colour temperature approximates that of daylight and thereby reduces eye strain for the driver. LED lamps are about two to three times more efficient than conventional incandescent bulbs and therefore reduce energy consumption noticeably. Last but not least, they have a service life as long as that of the vehicle itself and replacing the lamps is therefore usually no longer required.

A new generation of folding seats also premières in the Citaro. Due to their larger width, they can be listed in the registration documents as full-fledged seats. Their appearance matches the design of the Citaro. The folding seats are available as single seats and - a new feature - as mother-and-child seats or double seats. The folding seats are either mounted on a frame facing forward or backward or are bolted to the side wall.

The Citaro NGT is also equipped with the new electronics architecture of the Citaro. It can be identified by the large colour display in the instrument panel, by new switches and the also new control unit for heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

As all Citaro articulated buses, the Citaro G NGT also benefits from the new articulation angle control system ATC (Articulation Turntable Controller). ATC sets a new standard for driving dynamics and safety in articulated buses. The ATC dynamic control system works quickly and above all to the precise extent needed to regulate the hydraulic damping of the articulated joint as a function of the steering angle, articulation angle, speed and load.

If the articulated bus becomes unstable, damping of the articulated joint is controlled quickly and as needed. Within the limits of physics, the articulated bus can thus be stabilised very quickly. The new ATC articulation angle control system thus achieves almost the effect of an electronic stability control system. In a normal stable handling situation, the pivoting joint is virtually free to rotate and is dampened purely by the friction between the components. This optimises the self-steering properties and the steering effort while minimising tyre wear at the front axle. The steering response and steering forces of the articulated bus are virtually identical to those of a solo bus.

The vehicle on display in detail

At the Busworld Kortrijk trade show, Mercedes-Benz presents the Citaro NGT as a solo bus with two double-wide doors. The vehicle and the detachable components are painted brilliant silver metallic. This also applies to the cover of the gas bottles, which in this case is the large version with seven bottles and a capacity of 1589 l for an especially large operating range. The front axle has been adapted accordingly with a maximum axle weight of 7.5 t. The power of the Mercedes-Benz M 936 G natural gas engine is transferred by a torque converter automatic transmission from Voith. An energy recovery module minimises fuel consumption.

The vehicle on display is equipped with LED headlamps. Other safety features include the Electronic Stability Program ESP,a rain/light sensor, a tyre pressure control system and a fire extinguishing system. For the sake of safety, the vehicle is also equipped with an elaborate video system with four cameras that monitor the two entrances and the passenger compartment.

The driver's area is comfortable and features power exterior mirrors, driver's window and roller sun blind. The door to the driver's cabin has an integrated cash register. The driver's area and the passenger compartment are climate-controlled. The passengers are seated on City Star Eco seats covered with a comfortable fabric upholstery. In addition, folding seats are available in the wheelchair bay and in the special-use area. With grab rails in pastel orange, ceiling handrails in Evo Steel and dark brown gaya wood flooring, the passenger compartment of the Citaro NGT is equally functional and comfortable.

Mercedes-Benz Travego: The successful premium high-decker touring coach bearing the three-pointed star is now even more efficient and safe

The premium high-decker Mercedes-Benz Travego is the yardstick for top technology in touring coaches: the Travego is an innovation driver primarily in the area of powertrain, environmental and safety technology and operation. The Travego also lives up to this reputation in its latest iteration. The standard-fit AEBS (Advanced Emergency Braking System) already exceeds the future requirements on emergency braking systems going into effect in 2018. The new generation of the top-of-the-line engine rated at 350 kW (476 hp) lowers fuel consumption and thus CO2 emissions and costs considerably further still. It therefore comes as no surprise that the 10,000th Mercedes-Benz Travego can already be celebrated at the Busworld Kortrijk trade show.

Powerful, efficient and clean: the latest generation of the OM 471

It is no sin to be powerful. That is proven by the Travego premium high-decker touring coach with its latest top-of-the-line engine. The second generation of the Mercedes-Benz OM 471 heavy-duty engine combines even more powerful acceleration with yet further reduced fuel consumption.

The thoroughly revised in-line six-cylinder with a displacement of 12.8 l continues to develop an unchanged output of 350 kW (476 hp) in the Travego. Also identical is the peak torque of 2300 Nm. However, what has changed are the characteristics of the engine: with a higher injection pressure, increased compression ratio and a reduced exhaust gas recirculation rate the engine is now even more trimmed for maximum efficiency.

Power and torque are now considerably higher in the lowest engine rev range, synonymous with unusually dynamic acceleration and enormous in-gear pulling power. The nominal engine speed was reduced from 1800 rpm to 1600 rpm. In practice, this means outstanding drivability under all conceivable conditions over an extremely wide usable engine speed range of about 1000 rpm. At low rev speeds in particular, the already powerful engine now ranks at least one output category higher than before.

Mercedes-Benz has taken advantage of these characteristics of the new engine generation and has adapted the shift programme of the fully automated eight-speed Mercedes GO 250-8 PowerShift bus transmission accordingly.

Systematically configuring the engine for low fuel consumption means that untreated NOx emissions inevitably increase in return. This is countered with SCR technology featuring a new and highly efficient SCR catalytic converter.

Fuel expenses considerably reduced, less strain on the environment

The combined measures on engine and transmission lower the fuel consumption of the Travego by up to four percent. At the same time, CO2 emissions have been reduced by a similar amount. Accounting for an increased consumption of AdBlue for emission control, this results in an overall reduction in expenses for fuel and AdBlue by up to four percent for the operator. In conjunction with the Mercedes GO 250-8 PowerShift transmission and a common annual distance driven, this means a reduction in operating costs by a four-figure amount per year - while at the same relieving the burden on the environment.

The second-generation OM 471 engine is optionally available for the three-axle high-decker Mercedes-Benz Travego M (length 13.0 m) and Travego L (length 14.03 m). Mercedes-Benz equips the Travego with the OM 470 in-line six-cylinder engine as standard. It produces 315 kW (428 hp) from a displacement of 10.7 l and delivers a peak torque of 2100 Nm.

The especially effective AEBS emergency braking system

Every Mercedes-Benz Travego now comes standard-equipped with the AEBS emergency braking system. AEBS employs a radar system to detect moving or stationary vehicles ahead, and continually calculates the speed difference to the own vehicle. If a collision is unavoidable unless immediate action is taken, the driver is first warned and the vehicle automatically performs a partial application of the brakes. If the driver fails to react and a collision is imminent, the vehicle automatically executes an emergency stop. This means that the consequences of an impact can be drastically mitigated.

Typical of Mercedes-Benz: the capabilities of the standard-fit AEBS already exceed those mandated by legislation that won't go into effect until three years from now in a second, more stringent stage.

Even more effective: Active Brake Assist 3

Active Brake Assist 3 (ABA 3) is now even more effective. In its original form as Active Brake Assist, it was first introduced in the Mercedes-Benz Travego in 2006 and has undergone continuous further development since. While AEBS drastically reduces the vehicle's speed in a critical situation, ABA 3 brakes the touring coach to a complete emergency stop when it encounters a stationary obstacle. The Travego with ABA 3 is thus able to prevent rear-end collisions with moving or stationary obstacles within the limits of the laws of physics. Mercedes-Benz installs Active Brake Assist 3 in the Travego as standard if the customer orders the vehicle with the adaptive cruise control system on whose radar system ABA 3 is based.

The standard equipment of every Travego now includes the SPA lane departure warning system on top of the already exemplary previous safety features. It warns the driver with pulsations on the appropriate side of the seat if the bus is about to unintentionally depart its lane to the left or right.

Every Travego is also equipped with the following standard safety features: the electronically controlled braking system EBS, Brake Assist, continuous brake limiter, anti-locking brakes, a secondary water retarder, the Electronic Stability Program ESP and a fire detection system in the engine compartment. Furthermore, Attention Assist, a tyre pressure control system and a fire extinguishing system are optionally available.

New height-adjustable luxury head restraints enhance comfort

The most conspicuous change of the Travego for the coming model year are new optionally available luxury head restraints for the passengers. In fully retracted position, they add 40 mm to the height of the backrest and can be raised continuously by up to 85 mm. As a result, they perfectly adapt to the individual physique of the passengers. Because the side bolsters of the head restraints are also adjustable, the head is optimally supported like in a comfortable wing chair during a nap. The head restraints are 260 mm wide and thus restrict the field of vision of passengers seated behind only marginally. The new luxury head restraints will be available starting in the first quarter of 2016 for the Travel Star Eco and Travel Star Xtra seats. Astute observers also notice the new foot rest of the passenger seats with an especially large and therefore comfortable supporting surface.

The product range of the Mercedes-Benz Travego remains unchanged and continues to be comprised of three premium high-deckers from 12.18 m to 14.03 m in length.

Exceptional anniversary: the 10,000th Mercedes-Benz Travego

Introduced in 1999 and since then continuously advanced over several generations, the Mercedes-Benz Travego has long since grown into the best-seller among premium high-decker touring coaches. For this reason, an exceptional anniversary is coming up at the Busworld Kortrijk trade show: Mercedes-Benz celebrates the 10,000th Travego, which will be handed over to a Belgian customer. The anniversary vehicle, a three-axle Travego M, bears the appropriate markings for this occasion.

The vehicle on display in detail

Mercedes-Benz presents the 10,000th Travego built since the market launch of the touring coach flagship at the Busworld Kortrijk. The anniversary vehicle, a Travego M with a length of 13.0 m, is painted a classy azure blue including all detachable parts and carries the appropriate markings to commemorate the occasion. The interior is colour-coordinated with the paint finish: the seat cushions and backrests of the 53 top-of-the-range 'Travel Star Xtra' passenger seats are covered with 'modern grey' Luxline upholstery. The side gussets and the leather head sections sport a 'silver sterling' colour while the side bolsters and seat backs are finished in 'modern blue'. Grey curtains and 'gaya wood kruger' flooring round out the tasteful appointments.

The special Travego is powered by the standard-spec engine, a Mercedes-Benz OM 470 six-cylinder in-line engine rated at 315 kW (428 hp). Also on board is the fully automated Mercedes GO 250-8 PowerShift transmission. Including the auxiliary tank, the vehicle has a total fuel capacity of 710 l and thus ensures an extraordinarily large operating range.

The anniversary coach is equipped with outstanding safety features that include adaptive cruise control, Active Brake Assist 3, a lane departure warning system and Attention Assist. A reverse warning system helps the driver in manoeuvring, a video camera secures the area above door number two. Xenon headlamps and pop-up skylights are other attributes of the technical and coachwork features The passenger compartment is equipped with such comfort features as a galley, two refrigerators and a lavatory. The entertainment system includes a panoramic camera and two 48-cm (19-inch) folding screens in the roof dome and the centre aisle.

Mercedes-Benz Tourismo: Europe's best-selling touring coach with even further enhanced safety technology and long-distance regular-service equipment package

It is the favourite touring coach of European companies: the Mercedes-Benz Tourismo is the undisputed best-seller among touring coaches with sales of about 1000 units a year. It has been equipped as standard with the especially effective AEBS (Advanced Emergency Braking System) and the lane departure warning system already since spring 2015. The Tourismo shows how good it is as a tailor-made coach for long-distance regular-service routes with a specialised equipment package. Furthermore, the touring coach celebrates a remarkable anniversary: Mercedes-Benz delivers the 10,000th Tourismo of the current model series at the Busworld Kortrijk trade show.

The top coach: 10,000 touring coaches in nine years

No current touring coach in Europe is more successful than the Mercedes-Benz Tourismo: on the market in its second generation since 2006, Mercedes-Benz now already delivers the 10,000th vehicle of its touring coach sales hit.

The secret of the Tourismo's success is economic efficiency: the touring coach sells companies on a combination of favourable total costs and high reliability. For this reason, the touring coach has also earned a great reputation as a bus for long-distance regular-service routes and since the liberalisation of long-distance transport in Germany has also right away asserted its position in this segment.

Another important reason for the success of the Tourismo is the tailor-made selection: the model series has grown step by step and now comprises a large family of buses and coaches with seven base models and numerous individual equipment options. The model range spans the gamut from functional high-floor touring coaches and versatile club buses to comfortable high-decker touring coaches with two and three axles.

The especially effective AEBS emergency braking system

Like the Travego, every Mercedes-Benz Tourismo is being equipped with the AEBS emergency braking system as standard since spring 2015. The performance spectrum is identical: AEBS employs a radar system to detect vehicles moving or stationary vehicles ahead, and continually calculates the speed difference to the own vehicle. If a collision is unavoidable unless immediate action is taken, the driver is first warned and the vehicle automatically performs a partial application of the brakes. If the driver fails to react and a collision is imminent, the vehicle automatically executes an emergency stop. This means that the consequences of an impact can be drastically mitigated.

Typical of Mercedes-Benz: the capabilities of the standard-fit AEBS already exceed those mandated by legislation that won't go into effect until three years from now in a second, more stringent stage.

The standard specification of every Tourismo now also includes the SPA lane departure warning system. It warns the driver with pulsations on the appropriate side of the seat if the bus is about to unintentionally depart its lane to the left or right.

Handicapped accessible with lift and wheelchair bays

In light of the impending requirements on handicapped accessible passenger transport, the Tourismo is now available with a lift and wheelchair bays. The lift is concealed in a bin in the luggage compartment directly aft of the front axle on the right-hand side behind an additional door. Provisions can be made for a wheelchair bay on the left-hand and right-hand side of the passenger compartment.

In that case, the accustomed passenger seats are installed as double movie theatre seats with folding seat cushion. Four of these double seats each are installed on airline rails on the left and the right side and can be moved fore and aft. Thanks to quick-release mechanisms, they can be pushed together in no time to make room for a wheelchair. The rails in turn are suitable for bracing the wheelchairs.

New height-adjustable luxury head restraints enhance comfort

The most conspicuous change of the Travego for the coming model year are new optionally available luxury head restraints for the passengers. In fully retracted position, they add 40 mm to the height of the backrest and can be raised continuously by up to 85 mm. As a result, they perfectly adapt to the individual physique of the passengers. Because the side bolsters of the head restraints are also adjustable, the head is optimally supported like in a comfortable wing chair during a nap. The head restraints are 260 mm wide and thus restrict the field of vision of passengers seated behind only marginally. The new luxury head restraints will be available starting in the first quarter of 2016 for the Travel Star Eco and Travel Star Xtra seats in all high-decker versions of the Tourismo RHD. Astute observers also notice the new foot rest of the passenger seats with an especially large and therefore comfortable supporting surface.

The vehicle on display in detail

The vehicle on display is also the anniversary vehicle, a high-decker Tourismo 17 RHD, with a length of 13.99 m the largest available Tourismo. The touring coach including its detachable parts is painted an elegant royal blue metallic. Its markings on the inside and out discreetly point out the anniversary of the 10,000th Tourismo of the second generation.

The equipment package identifies the exhibit as a bus for long-distance regular-service routes. A compact destination display provides information for passengers at the bus depot. The equally functional and comfortable 'Travel Star Eco' seats with Softline upholstery for 52 passengers are equipped with the new retractable luxury head restraints. They are covered with friendly 'oslo blue green' upholstery with dark green fabric edging and feature 'ocean blue' leather head restraints. These colours are stylishly captured by the dark green curtains and the undersides of the 'ocean blue' luggage racks. Foot rests of the latest generation, luggage nets, grab handles and bag hooks embody function and convenience. The same applies to the vehicle being fitted with a 230-volt electrical socket per double seat and the pre-installation for WLAN reception. People who'd rather be entertained by the on-board DVD system watch the two large 48-cm (19-inch) screens.

The Tourismo also welcomes passengers with restricted mobility, as documented by a lift aft of the front axle on the right-hand side. Two wheelchair bays are available on the right-hand side of the passenger compartment. The seats have to be removed for this purpose.

A galley aft of door two and a refrigerator in the front structure are intended to keep the passengers supplied with food and drink. The lavatory features special equipment for long-distance regular-service routes. This includes a larger potable water tank and a larger waste-holding reservoir, an electric hand dryer and a disinfectant dispenser.

The powertrain features a combination of the OM 470 six-cylinder in-line engine rated at 315 kW (428 hp) and the fully automated Mercedes GO 250-8 PowerShift eight-speed transmission. The comprehensive equipment ensures a high level of safety and includes the Electronic Stability Program ESP, the emergency braking system AEBS, a lane departure warning system, xenon headlamps, a fire extinguishing system and a host of other components.

Mercedes-Benz Intouro: The miracle of economy among intercity buses is now safer than ever with the emergency braking system

The miracle of economy among intercity buses is called Mercedes-Benz Intouro. The Intouro is designed through and through for regular service and occasional excursions and today is one of the best-sellers among buses in Europe. With dual registration in class 2/3 as a combined intercity bus and touring coach, it now also benefits from being equipped with AEBS (Advanced Emergency Braking System) and the lane departure warning system. These safety features are optionally available for the other variants.

The Intouro adapts precisely to its application

The Mercedes-Benz Intouro is as individual as its applications. It covers a wide range of uses thanks to its especially economical two-axle vehicles in three lengths from 12.14 m to 13.32 m, the compact Mercedes OM 936 engine rated at 220 kW (299 hp) or 260 kW (354 hp) from a displacement of 7.7 l and a large selection of manual transmissions, the fully automated Mercedes GO 250-8 PowerShift eight-speed transmission and torque converter automatic transmissions.

Just as flexible are the equipment features of the Intouro: destination display, two-leaf centre door, a lift for transporting people in wheelchairs, seats, luggage racks or an interchangeable platform - the Intouro perfectly adapts to the particular application.

The especially effective AEBS emergency braking system

With dual registration in class 2/3 (intercity/tourist transport) the Mercedes-Benz Intouro now also benefits from being equipped with the AEBS emergency braking system as standard. The performance spectrum is identical to the touring coaches: AEBS employs a radar system to detect moving or stationary vehicles ahead and continually calculates the speed difference to the own vehicle. If a collision is unavoidable unless immediate action is taken, the driver is first warned and the vehicle automatically initiates partial braking. If the driver fails to react and a collision is imminent, the vehicle automatically executes an emergency stop. This means that the consequences of an impact can be drastically mitigated.

Typical of Mercedes-Benz: the capabilities of the standard-fit AEBS already exceed those mandated by legislation that won't go into effect until three years from now in a second, more stringent stage.

With dual registration in class 2/3, the standard equipment also includes the SPA lane departure warning system. It warns the driver with pulsations on the appropriate side of the seat if the bus is about to unintentionally depart its lane to the left or right.

If the Intouro is registered in class 2 as an intercity bus, both assistance systems are available as optional extras.

The other modifications of the successful bus are limited to details. Astute observers recognise the new model year by the changed headlamp surrounds with a silver finish.

The vehicle on display in detail

The model series is represented at the Busworld Kortrijk by a Mercedes-Benz Intouro M with a length of 12.6 m in France specification. It is fitted with a functional and comfortable equipment package. The passengers are seated on 55 Travel Star Eco touring coach seats with adjustable backrests and armrests. This includes two swivelling seats at the two-leaf centre door and two folding seats on the opposite side in the special-use area. The seat cushions and backrests sport a lively 'black orange' upholstery with leather head sections. Highlights are added by the likewise orange curtains, the white aluminium grab rails and the light-coloured 'gaya wood yellowstone' flooring.

Apart from the comfortable seats, the double glazing, climate control system and luggage racks emphasise the comfort of the intercity bus even on longer journeys.

The Intouro on display offers an exceptionally high level of safety with the Electronic Stability Program ESP, the AEBS emergency braking system, the lane departure warning system, a smoke detector in the luggage compartment and an alcohol ignition interlock device for the driver.

The bus is powered by the compact Mercedes-Benz OM 936 six-cylinder in-line engine with a displacement of 7.7 l, whose power is transferred by the fully automated Mercedes GO 250-8 PowerShift eight-speed transmission.

The vehicle on display demonstrates just how elegant an intercity bus can be with its anthracite metallic paint finish.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter City 65: This minibus is configured for line service from head to toe

• Discrete bodywork, ample glazing, unmistakable design

• Spacious passenger compartment with large low-floor zone

• Latest passenger information and safety technology

This mini is top-class: the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter City 65 minibus is fully configured for line service. The discrete bodywork with ample window areas is chic, the interior design and seating of the passenger compartment follows that of the large Citaro. The low-floor platform between the axles also welcomes passengers with restricted mobility on board. The Sprinter City 65 continues to be one of the flagships in the Mercedes-Benz minibus product range.

Discrete coachwork, a lowered frame, ample glazing

The discrete coachwork of the Sprinter City 65 is based on the cowl chassis of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with a wheelbase of 4325 mm. The lowered frame between the axles is a special modification for use in regular-service operations. The gross vehicle weight of 5650 kg provides large weight reserves.

The body structure is of bus-specific design: the body shell is based on a system of structural ribs that have undergone cataphoretic dip priming. It is clad with high-strength exterior panels of glass-fibre reinforced plastic and has large areas of panoramic glass.

The wide, double-leaf passenger door ensures a smooth flow of passengers at the bus stop. Thanks to its kneeling system, the entrance is just 270 mm above road level. A manually operated folding ramp provides assistance for passengers with restricted mobility.

Spacious passenger compartment with large low-floor zone

The discrete coachwork with extensive glazing and generous standing headroom form the basis for a spacious passenger compartment. It is divided into a low-floor zone between the axles and the rear section fitted with seats. Passengers feel comfortable on 'City Star Eco' seats, aided by a sophisticated heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. The functional and spacious cockpit is the same as in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, complemented with hallmark functional elements for buses such as the payment tray cabinet with separate compartment for the driver's bag and the fire extinguisher.

The combination of the four-cylinder Mercedes-Benz OM 651 engine rated at 120 kW (163 hp) with a customised final drive ratio of the driven rear axle and the seven-speed torque converter automatic transmission ensures powerful acceleration and at the same time an economical driving style.

Passengers and drivers benefit from a chassis specifically tailored to the use as a regular-service bus. This includes a reinforced front axle, reinforced stabiliser bars and a rear axle with air suspension. The extensive line-up of standard safety equipment is noteworthy. At its heart are the Electronic Stability Program Adaptive ESP, ASR acceleration skid control, the start-off assist system AAS and Brake Assist (BA).

The vehicle on display in detail

Already the discreet and elegant slate metallic paint finish of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter City 65 indicates that this is a minibus in a class of its own. This impression continues in the interior equipped with light-coloured 'gaya wood yellowstone' flooring and inviting seats with seat cushion and backrest padding. On the vehicle on display, the 13 passenger seats in the rear are complemented by four folding seats in the low-floor zone, a wheelchair bay and baby carriage area. Two video cameras and a colour screen on the instrument panel are the visible components of the video monitoring system in the Sprinter City 65. Despite looking ahead, the driver can keep an eye on the passenger compartment and the entrance and analyse the events at the end of the day.

The entertainment electronics deserve particular attention. While on the road, the passengers are provided with freely configurable information via the passenger information system on a TFT screen. The operator of the line thus becomes a programme designer. People who want to design their own programme benefit from the on-board WLAN and the numerous USB ports for smartphones or tablets. This makes it possible to make even longer journeys enjoyable and seemingly shorter.

For tallying and invoicing the transport services, the Sprinter City is equipped with the latest combo cash register system and a chip card terminal. The combo unit on the payment tray cabinet combines the latest generation of ticket printers with all relevant computer-based control

system functionalities. The chip card terminal in the passenger compartment is a no-contact e-ticket self-service terminal that can handle the entire spectrum from a simple entry control device and an info terminal to a sales terminal.

Busworld Kortrijk 2015: The Mercedes-Benz exhibition programme on the trade show stand in hall 5

Mercedes-Benz Citaro NGT
Engine: Mercedes-Benz M 936 G, 222 kW (302 hp)
Length x width x height: 12,135 x 2550 x 3389 mm
Seats: 31 seats including driver's seat,
60 standing passengers

Mercedes-Benz Travego M
Engine: Mercedes-Benz OM 470, 315 kW (428 hp)
Length x width x height: 13,000 x 2550 x 3710 mm
Seats: 53 + 2 + 1

Mercedes-Benz Tourismo L
Engine: Mercedes-Benz OM 470, 315 kW (428 hp)
Length x width x height: 13,990 x 2550 x 3620 mm
Seats: 52 + 1 + 1

Mercedes-Benz Intouro M
Engine: Mercedes-Benz OM 936, 260 kW (354 hp)
Length x width x height: 12,640 x 2550 x 3355 mm
Seats: 55 + 1

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter City 65
Engine: Mercedes-Benz OM 651, 120 kW (163 hp)
Length x width x height: 7716 x 1993 x 2910 mm
Seats: 13 + 4 + 1