The 2005 MOT (Mercedes-Benz Omnibustage) in Mannheim was a resounding success. In excess of 6,500 people from more than 20 nations visited the biennial in-house show. 1,000 visitors also took part in a factory tour. A total of 160 Mercedes-Benz buses and coaches were sold during the event. The MOT was this year staged for the first time both at the plant and at the Used Bus and Coach Centre (OGC) in the "bus city" of Mannheim. Held on two consecutive weekends (November 11 to 13 and 18 to 20), visitors were treated – in addition to the many exhibits and an attractive supporting programme – to two world and two national premieres.

Making their world debut as part of the MOT's "festival of new models" were the Mercedes-Benz "CapaCity" high-capacity articulated bus (prototype) and the new generation of Mercedes-Benz Integro rural-service buses. The high-capacity articulated bus prototype measures 19.54 metres in length and boasts a four-axle, four-door design concept. It has a capacity of 193 passengers. Making their German debut meanwhile were the Mercedes-Benz Travego high-deck touring coach and the visually and technically upgraded best-selling Citaro regular-service bus. The regular-service buses Citaro LE (urban) and Citaro LE Ü (rural service) are low-entry buses custom-designed for urban or rural requirements. Combining the advantages of a low-floor bus with those of a raised-floor vehicle, they merge un-conventional ideas with rational and economic benefits in an exemplary fashion. In addition to the product presentations, MOT also showcased the new BlueTec engines, which already comply with future emissions regulations. Using SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) and the AdBlue additive, BlueTec diesel technology meets both Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards.

The Mercedes-Benz Bus and Coach unit offered more than just a large range of vehicles and services at this year's exhibition. The presentations on the local public transport sector (ÖPNV) were the undoubted highlight of the 2005 MOT. Offering a wide variety of topics, the "ÖPNV Forum" covered all aspects of local public transport. Visitors received comprehensive information, covering everything from procurement processes to new drive technologies and innovative vehicle concepts.

During the six days of the show, prospective customers were also given the opportunity to test-drive the complete range of buses and coaches. Extensive information was also provided at the Hockenheimring racetrack on the extensive Omniplus Safety and Eco-training program. Demonstration drives illustrated various aspects of the safety training.