Setra is offering a broad overview of its product portfolio at the 61st IAA Intern-tional Commercial Vehicle Show being held from September 21–28, 2006, where a total of ten of the DaimlerChrysler AG brand’s buses and coaches will be on display in Hall 16. The highlight of this year’s show stand is without doubt the World Premiere of the MultiClass 400 low-floor interurban buses. Four models from the state-of-the-art TopClass 400 generation of coaches can also be seen in Hanover alongside two representatives from the economically sound Comfort-Class 400 range. All of the vehicles on show are equipped with BlueTec diesel technology featuring SCR selective catalytic reduction with a downstream cata-lytic converter, and conform fully to the new Euro 4 legislation.

Receiving its premiere at the IAA is a two-door S 415 NF model measuring 12 metres in length. Setra brand spokesperson Werner Staib is in no doubt about the new buses’ prospects for success: “This new generation of buses enriches the product spectrum by adding further tailor-made models for rural regular-service transport. The low-floor vehicles are perfect for regular-service operations, offer-ing excellent passenger comfort as well as the ideal credentials for accommodat-ing parents with young children or wheelchair users.”

The market launch of this low-floor range concludes the process of migrating the entire portfolio to the 400 model series. Sales of the preceding 300 series totalled around 23,000 coaches and interurban buses, while there are already 6,000 400-series vehicles operating on Europe's roads.

It's not just the low-floor interurban buses which are in the limelight on the Setra stand, however. Measuring 10.80 metres long, the S 412 UL is a compact addition to the MultiClass 400 rural range that is likewise making its world debut in Hanover. The exhibition line-up is completed by two further models from the rural regular-service generation first unveiled in 2005, the S 415 UL measuring 12.20 metres long and a 14.98-metre S 419 UL.

World Premiere of the new MultiClass 400 low-floor interurban buses

The new low-floor interurban buses replace the S 315 NF and S 319 NF 300-series models, which have amassed pan-European sales in excess of 3,100 units since their launch in 1996. Customers will now have the choice of the S 415 NF, which Setra also builds in a three-door version, as well as the two-door S 416 NF meas-uring 13 metres long. The new low-floor buses are the ideal complement to the raised-floor UL models in the MultiClass 400 range. Not only do today's highly discerning rural regular-service operators benefit from the very latest technology partnered by excellent cost effectiveness, they also have extremely comfortable vehicles at their disposal whose low-floor design makes light work of boarding and alighting for all passengers.

Dynamic styling

The new low-floor interurban models are made to stand out by the smooth flow from one section of the body to another and their dynamic overall styling. The front end is dominated by the deep-set panoramic front windscreen whose lines are echoed by the gentle curvature of the H1/H7 front headlamps and the arrangement of the LED indicators. The trademark-Setra front view has undergone a minor facelift: tolerances have been reduced in the framework's structure, making it possible to dispense with the rubber strips surrounding the windscreen. This gives the vehicle body as a whole a flush-fit appearance, making the vehicle's “face” as attractive as it is practical. Corner guards, bumpers and headlamps all fold upwards, ensuring straightforward access for maintenance. The rear end with its spherically curving windscreen and the distinctively contoured tail light units offers plenty of scope for high-impact customer designs. The bumpers fold downwards. The destination indicators are integrated into the windows on all sides and the marker lamps along the sidewalls are highly visible from all angles thanks to the use of LED technology. The new S 415 NF demonstrates once again that each and every Setra has its own individual character and that Setra has once again succeeded in creating a separate product family member in its own right with the new low-floor interurban buses. This is further helped by the high-quality aluminium design element that has been incorporated into the styling above the wheel arch on the right-hand side of the vehicle.

Peerless passenger comfort

It is not just in its touring coaches that the Setra Bus and Coach unit seeks to maximise passenger comfort, it is a high priority for its MultiClass 400 low-floor rural regular-service buses too. Passengers could be forgiven for forgetting that they are travelling in a regular-service bus, so smooth are the forms that make up its interior design. This impression is reinforced by features such as the gently curved luggage racks beneath the ceiling, which is itself fitted with electrically operated ventilation hatches.

Overhead lights in the centre of the ceiling afford pleasant, uniform illumination throughout the passenger compartment. Halogen spotlights next to the doors maintain the interior's cheerful feel even when driving in very gloomy conditions or at night-time, as well as making it easier for passengers to get in and out. Arching grab rails and glazed partitions round off the gracious ambience inside the latest generation of low-floor buses, which offer uncompromising standards of safety and comfort at the same time as complying with all provisions of the EU 2001/85 Directive.

The two-axle S 415 NF model that is being presented on the show stand in Hano-ver offers seating for 42 and standing room for a further 40 passengers in its two-door guise. Standing capacity varies depending on the individual interior layout chosen, with options including a communications zone in the rearmost portion of the bus, an attractive face-to-face seating arrangement and a wheelchair space.

Just like in the UL models, passengers in the low-floor bus versions are able to enjoy all the benefits of the “Transit” passenger seat which has been purpose-developed for the MultiClass 400 buses. This lightweight yet extremely robust passenger seat is available in a number of variants, including a version fitted with an antivandalism shell, while the curving seat base is designed to make it easier for passengers to get into the seat and back out into the centre aisle again. The corner handles on the aisle side meet both the general requirements of the 2001/85 EU Directive, as well as the specific criteria relating to school buses.

Driver's workstation meets VDV specifications

Ergonomically arranged controls and the clear layout of the instrument panel are something one has come to expect from Setra. Efficient cockpit design is an area the designers have always paid a great deal of attention to. This applies to Setra's regular-service buses just as much as it does to their coaches. Consequently, drivers of the redeveloped generation of low-floor buses also stand to reap the benefits. The driver's new workstation is integrated into a separate cab and complies with all of the requirements laid down by the Association of German Transport Operators (VDV).

The interior mirror is set into the top of the front fascia. Spacious stowage compartments have been included for the driver's bags, lost property, emergency equipment as well as fire extinguishers. The driver's workstation also features cup holders and refrigerated compartments. Bus operators are able to choose from a range of ticket counter systems, which can all be installed quickly and easily.

The driver's area is separated from the passenger compartment by a partition wall, which improves concentration and, in turn, passenger safety. Inside the partition where it can be accessed easily is the electrics compartment containing the fuse and relay slots. The multimedia box located at ceiling height between the cockpit and passenger compartment is able to house all manner of electrical control systems, such as the digital tachograph for instance.

Outward-swinging and inward-folding doors for a fast passenger flow

Ensuring that their buses run on time is of sacrosanct importance to all transport operators. Fast passenger flows are one of the keys to achieving this, making it a decisive criterion for many customers and one which the Setra brand has once again fulfilled in every respect with its new buses. Options include pneumatically operated outward-swinging doors which open and close without any lifting and lowering, as well as electrically controlled sliding plug doors and inward-folding doors.

The choice of integral destination indicators is no less varied. Setra guarantees availability of any destination display equipment that the market requests. The S 415 NF on show at the IAA is equipped with reflective backlit display (RBD) technology which is designed for excellent legibility as well as a long life, even under the influence of extreme temperatures or moisture. What's more, any one of five different wheelchair ramps can be installed in the new NF models too.

Cathodic dip priming for guaranteed all-round corrosion protection

The framework of the Setra S 415 NF bodyshell is based on the tried-and-tested ring spar principle, where rings of tubes running perpendicular to the direction of travel are connected to one another by means of longitudinal beams. This technique increases the torsional rigidity of the vehicle's body, thereby giving a deci-sive boost to passive safety.

The bodyshell framework of the new MultiClass 400 models is protected against corrosion by the same cathodic dip priming process used for the Setra TopClass 400 and ComfortClass 400 coaches.

Independent front suspension and 100 % tyres as standard

The overhang of 2,705 mm at the front of the MultiClass 400 is larger than on the predecessor models, while the 5,845-mm wheelbase is a little shorter. The turning circle of 20.83 metres has likewise been reduced compared to the 300 series: the turning circle of the S 315 NF measured 21.56 metres, for example. The angle of approach and departure of the 400 series buses is 8˚.

The 100 % tyres with dimensions of 11 R 22.5 that make up part of the standard specification produce a step-up height of 360 mm at door 1 and 380 mm at door 2. Buses barely come any lower and lighter than this. The use of thinner glass and a new low-weight front axle have helped to cut the vehicle's overall weight by around 500 kilograms to 11,750 kilograms. The ZF RL 75 EC front axle with independent suspension plays a supporting role in achieving the low ground clearance. Designed for lower tyre wear, it also guarantees optimum suspension char-acteristics. Maintenance flaps in the interior are a thing of the past.

Euro 4 six-cylinder engines and automatic transmissions

The MultiClass 400 low-floor models are equipped with the horizontally installed MB OM 457 hLA inline six-cylinder engine. The Euro 4 engine is available with basic outputs of 220 kW/299 hp (max. torque 1250 Nm) or 260 kW/354 hp with peak torque of 1600 Nm as an option. Bus operators are also able to opt for the OM 906 Mercedes-Benz engine developing 210 kW/285 hp at 1120 Nm. The new models come fitted with the Voith Diwa 864.3 automatic transmission as standard, with the option of the ZF 12-speed HP automatic transmission with integral retarder. Fuel tank capacity has been increased from 254 to 350 litres, and refuelling can be carried out from either side of the vehicle. The 45-litre “AdBlue” tank is positioned adjacent to the fuel tank on the right-hand side of the buses. The Electronic Braking System (EBS) in the NF models features ABS as standard and is available with acceleration skid control (ASR) as an option.

Air conditioning and floor-level heating with optimised air distribution

Wherever they are operating, there's always a pleasant climate aboard the NF MultiClass 400 models. This is down to the 32 kW air conditioning system with brushless evaporator fan which is mounted on the vehicle's roof above the front axle for optimum weight distribution. The basic unit is designed for a long filter life and includes an access point at the side for servicing. A separate hot-air duct and extra window ducts along the sides ensure excellent air distribution as well as a finely regulated and, most importantly, draught-free climate. From 2007, bus operators based in the hot countries of Southern Europe will also have the op-tion of an air-conditioning system with 39 kW of cooling power. Floor-level heaters with twin-radial fans combine with a powerful heater box at the front to keep passengers snug and warm in the winter months. Efficient venti-lation is taken care of by four top-hung windows, a powerful roof fan as well as electrically operated hatches integrated into the roof panelling.

Optimised electronics for improved operational reliability

All of the electronics on board the MultiClass 400 are based around the same ar-chitecture: conventional switching systems linked up to the Flexible Programmed Control (FPS) whose modules are networked with one another using a CAN data bus. The FPS comprises “intelligent” modules positioned in a decentralised fash-ion at those points of the vehicle where any form of electronic regulation or con-trol is required. As a result, fewer relays and cables are needed for the electronics as a whole. The benefits of simplifying the architecture in this way are two-fold: operational reliability is increased and, at the same time, the number of individ-ual maintenance steps is reduced. Should the vehicle break down, the in-built di-agnostic system allows workshop personnel to resolve the problem quickly and effectively, and thereby shorten vehicle downtime considerably.

World first: the S 412 UL compact interurban bus

Quite apart from the new low-floor rural regular-service bus, Setra is also taking the wraps off its new 10.80-meter S 412 UL model in Hanover. Joining the two latest offerings on the show stand are an S 415 UL and an S 419 UL taken from the MultiClass 400 generation of rural regular-service buses first revealed in 2005. The model being premiered, the S 412 UL, is on show with a slanting coach-style front end and boasts a specification including a fire alarm system in the engine and luggage compartments as well as an accident data recorder. Measuring 12.20 metres long, the S 415 UL has a straight front end. This particular exhibit is equipped with a Braun lift for disabled passengers, a pram bay, an accident data recorder and Transit seats with anti-vandalism shells. The S 419 UL is measuring 14.98 metres. All of the MultiClass 400 models being showcased at the IAA include roof-mounted air conditioning systems with integral climate control for the driver's area to keep temperatures inside the vehicle at an optimum level. Setra is pursuing a strict growth strategy with the MultiClass 400. As with the ComfortClass 400, the brand has implemented a new length concept for the latest series of rural-service buses, which heralds an extra 200 mm at the front. This additional length creates a roomier interior, which translates into significantly more comfort for passengers, particularly on longer interurban journeys.

When designing the fully redeveloped MultiClass 400 cockpit with its digitised central display, the design team focused on the specific wants and needs of bus drivers. The result is a smartly styled, seamlessly practical workstation. For the first time, drivers at the wheel of a MultiClass 400 rural regular-service bus can now enjoy all the benefits of a joystick gearshift whose short shift travel and pneumatically assisted Servoshift function ensure supremely precise gearchanges. Boasting a design that offers operators the option of using them for short excursions as well as rural regular-service passenger transport as an addi-tional source of income, the UL models first arrived on the market in March 2006 when the S 415 UL entered series production.

TopClass 400: innovation, luxury and safety

One of the most eye-catching exhibits in this year's premium touring coach line-up is an S 416 HDH in “VIP Edition” guise. The three-axle vehicle can be seen in Hanover sporting a glass roof, 2+1 seating, leather interior appointments, a flat wooden floor, an exclusive galley at the rear, plus a cloakroom next to the rear entrance. The four-star graded coach is bound to be a hit with passengers, offering such state-of-the-art multimedia features as a wireless internet connection, an iPod port, a subwoofer and 19" screens.

Innovation, technology and flawless comfort are also very much in evidence in the remaining TopClass 400 exhibits at the IAA, the S 411 HD, S 415 HD and the flagship model in the touring coach range, the double-decker Setra S 431 DT. Each of the coaches has been awarded a four-star grading and is equipped with Lane Assistant and proximity control. Extras include a panoramic camera on the S 411 HD and a reversing aid on the S 415 HD. The S 431 DT, meanwhile, is sure to be a magnet for visitors with its glass roof, a sophisticated video monitoring system and the lower deck's mirrored ceiling.

When it first launched the TopClass 400 in 2001, Setra took coach manufacture into a new dimension that promised the ultimate travel experience for passengers and driver alike, with an array of innovative, comfort-enhancing features such as anatomically designed seats, multimedia systems, versatile built-in galleys and the exclusive glass roof above the centre aisle.

The ergonomically styled cockpit neatly combines practicality with aesthetic ap-peal. The increased adjustment range for the driver's seat as well as the opti-mised arrangement and operation of all instrumentation, controls and levers al-low the driver to concentrate on the task in hand, which in turn benefits passen-ger safety. European journalists from the motoring press had a host of good reasons to vote the TopClass 400 “Coach of the Year 2002” just eight months after its debut, with the panel of judges citing its impressive technology and a remarkable design that struck a perfect balance between form and function as just two of the reasons for their decision. The TopClass 400 boasts a state-of-the-art safety concept too. All of the coaches are equipped as standard with the same safety features as the Com-fortClass 400 models, namely disc brakes, the Electronic Braking System (EBS), anti-lock braking system (ABS), acceleration skid control (ASR), Brake Assist (BA) and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), a system that actively enhances driv-ing safety and handling stability.

The proximity control system has been on the list of equipment options for the Setra brand's coach models since 2005. This system is able to take some of the stress out of driving when cruising on motorways and highways by automatically applying the brakes when a slower vehicle in front is detected to constantly main-tain the minimum proximity preset by the driver. The Continuous Braking Lim-iter was likewise introduced into series production by Setra in 2005. This system is able to brake the coach automatically if, for instance, it is accelerated by the force of gravity when travelling downhill, causing it to exceed the maximum legal speed limit of 100 km/h.

Setra furthermore offers customers the option of fitting the Lane Assistant. With the aid of a video camera, this system is able to detect any risk of the vehicle drifting out of its lane by permanently monitoring the distance between the sides of the coach and the lane markings on the road. If the vehicle is on the verge of crossing the markings, the driver's seat vibrates as an instant warning to the driver that is imperceptible to the passengers. Two motors built into the seat cushion effectively draw the driver's attention to the fact that the coach is about to cross the lane markings by vibrating in the thigh area. Which motor vibrates depends on which side the vehicle is drifting towards: if it is drifting to the left, the left-hand side of the seat pulsates, prompting the driver to steer instinctively back towards the middle of the lane. The warning is issued as soon as the coach reaches the outer edge of the lane markings, giving the driver as much margin as possible for taking corrective action. The Lane Assistant is activated, for instance, on long and monotonous motorway journeys above a speed of 70 km/h.

The TopClass 400 range comprises the S 411 HD club bus measuring 10.10 metres in length, the 12-metre long S 415 HD, the three-axle S 415 HDH super high-decker, the 12.99-metre long S 416 HDH also with three axles, plus the S 417 HDH super high-decker measuring 13.85 metres. The premium Setra line-up is headed by the S 431 DT double-decker flagship model measuring 13.89 metres from front to rear. Setra purpose-designed the S 417 model for the North American market, adapting it to requirements in the US before unveiling it there in spring 2003. The S 415 HD, meanwhile, comes in a right-hand-drive ver-sion to give the Ulm-based brand's TopClass 400 range a market presence in countries where traffic drives on the left too, such as the UK, the Republic of Ire-land and Cyprus.

ComfortClass 400: attractive alternative for economical coach travel

The cost-effective ComfortClass 400 models are likewise synonymous with excel-lent safety, finely engineered technology and supreme comfort. Designed for a combination of coach tours and rural transport, this particular range of vehicles is represented in Hanover by the two-axle S 415 GT-HD and the S 416 GT-HD 2-axle version as World Premiere. Both exhibits are again fitted with the Lane Assistant and proximity control safety systems. The specification of the S 415 GT-HD furthermore includes a camera in the rear entrance area and a fire alarm system in the engine compartment. A new design, new vehicle lengths, a cockpit that has been redeveloped from scratch, plus a wealth of technical innovations both inside and out have turned the ComfortClass 400 range into a product arm offering a refined standard of travel. Despite all being undeniably Setra in design, the four models – the S 415 GT, S 415 GT-HD, S 416 GT-HD and S 417 GT-HD – retain an individual character within the brand's portfolio that takes the way in which economy can be combined with travel comfort into a whole new dimension.

During development of the ComfortClass 400 range, Setra capitalised on the abol-ishment of the legislation limiting buses and coaches to a maximum overall length of 12 metres and extended each of the models by 200 mm. The S 415 GT and S 415 GT-HD measure 12.20 metres, the S 416 GT-HD 13.02 metres and the S 417 GT-HD 14.05 metres in length. For vehicles which are deployed for a combi-nation of coach tours and occasional passenger transport these are unprece-dented lengths which create far more interior space and speed up the passenger flow. The framework of the ComfortClass 400 bodyshell is cathodic-dip primed to protect it against corrosion, in the same way as the TopClass 400 touring coaches. A further prominent identifying feature of the ComfortClass 400 is its redesigned cockpit with controls that have been arranged ergonomically throughout. The driver's area in touring coach look incorporates a joystick-style gearshift and in-tegral monitors. There is also room for extra bottle holders as well as additional stowage facilities for a briefcase or roadmaps. For ComfortClass 400 models oper-ating on rural regular-service routes, a ticket counter can be added to the cockpit at any time without difficulty.

BlueTec diesel technology for green, economical engines

All of the vehicles being exhibited at the IAA Show are equipped with BlueTec diesel technology featuring SCR selective catalytic reduction with a downstream catalytic converter, and are fully in line with the new Euro 4 legislation. This method of emissions control injects the aqueous urea solution “AdBlue” into the flow of exhaust gases. Inside the catalytic converter, the nitrogen oxides are bro-ken down into harmless substances that occur naturally in the atmosphere – ni-trogen and water vapour. As a result, nitrogen oxide emissions can be reduced by as much as 30 per cent.

“Experience success” in Hall 16

Setra is staging this year's exhibition of coaches and buses in Hall 16 under the motto of “Experience success”. The World Premieres may well form the focus of attention, but the bus and coach brand from Ulm has once again sought to ensure that the presentation of all of its other exhibits is no less appealing. The show stand covers an area of 2,550 square metres and is replete with state-of-the-art and avant-garde design elements such as LED curtains, giving it a futuristic overall feel. It offers a wealth of information covering all aspects of the Setra Bus and Coach unit: quite apart from the broad cross-section of the brand's products and the participation of the DesignCenter, financial service providers and the services brand OMNIplus, there is a large catering area with seating for 260 that offers the ideal setting for stimulating conversation and discussions.