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www.setra-bus.com FamilyMagazine for customers and friends of
the Setra brand
Imprint
Publisher:EvoBus GmbHSetra OmnibusseNeue Straße 9573230
Kirchheim unter Teck (Germany)Tel. +49 731 181-0Fax +49 731
181-2418www.setra-bus.com
Responsible for content:Dr Jens Heinemann, Head Marketing
Communication Setra
The following people worked on this issue:Christine Denzel,
BUS/MPM-SBernd Goy, BUS/MGS-NDieter Startz, BUS/MGU-S
Concept, editorial work, layout:Newport3 Werbeagentur GmbH &
Co. KGNeumann-Reichardt-Str. 27-3322041 Hamburg
(Germany)www.newport3.de
Repro:Final Art ProductionNeumann-Reichardt-Str. 27-3322041
Hamburg (Germany)
Printing:Süddeutsche Verlagsgesellschaft UlmNicolaus-Otto-Straße
1489079 Ulm (Germany)
Number 52 | Issue 2/13
Extra tourAround the world with the ComfortClass 500
Page 08
World premiere The new TopClass 500 takes the lead
Page 16
Setra seatsWhy we build our own seats
Page 26
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Setra Editorial | 0302 | Setra Impressions
The new TopClass 500, with its distinctive La Linea design
feature, was the idea behind this issue of SetraFamily magazine’s
cover image.
lengths, and can hardly wait to introduce you to its many
exciting details. As a fur-ther world first, we will be presenting
our double-decker S 431 DT from the TopClass 400 series with its
Euro VI engine, as well as a ComfortClass 500 S 516 HD with a
patented wheelchair lift. But that's not all. On page 14, you can
have a look at Setra’s Kortrijk program, which as always has many
highlights to offer.Speaking of shows, many of you have probably
already listed our IGOM International Used Bus & Coach
Exhibition in your calendar. We also have some progress to report
here: in the future, the Daimler Buses pre-owned business in Europe
will be consolidated under the BusStore brand. With BusStore, we
are creating a Europe-wide, bus- and coach-specific, pre-owned
vehicle network with a multi-brand portfolio of vehicles. For this
reason, the former IGOM will become the BusStore Show – IGOM 2014,
and will be held in Neu-Ulm at a new time, i.e. 2–3 months later
than usual. Find out more in our A look back & a look ahead
column on page 46. Along with these topics, you can look forward to
an exciting mix of service developments, fascinating background
stories and personal news from the Setra Family.Wishing you
informative and inspiring reading.
Best regards,
Till OberwörderHead of Marketing, Sales and Aftersales EvoBus
GmbH
Dear customers and friends of the Setra brand,
“Progress is the realisation of utopias.” I am very pleased to
welcome you to the latest issue of the SetraFamily magazine. This
quote from Oscar Wilde fits well with this new issue, since it is
all about utopias, progress, the passion and the adventure that
connect us all with the world of coaches and buses.In terms of
progress and passion, it is also all about the most important event
to take place this year at Setra: the world premiere of the new
TopClass 500. On average, we experience the introduction of a new
model series only once per decade. This makes it something very
special, since it reflects the high standards of an all-new
generation of coaches. We wanted to build a coach that inspires
even the most discerning travel guests in every respect,
transforming the trip into a memorable travel experience, and
bringing together unmatched comfort, cutting-edge design and high
quality into a model of cost-effectiveness. The innovative TopClass
500 coach concept was created with this in mind. Its motto is
“Designed to inspire” – and I am quite sure that I am not exagger
ating when I say that the TopClass 500, with its timeless elegance,
dynamic design and luxurious amenities, will also inspire you. On
page 16, you can take a first look at the new masterpiece from
Setra.It was just over a year ago that the new ComfortClass 500 set
a milestone in the development of touring coaches. Since then, it
has more than proven its outstan d-ing cost-efficiency, safety and
comfort in practice. On page 44, you can read about how, at the
same time as the first deliveries in Europe were taking place, an
exclusive group of customers tested the Comfort- Class 500 in great
detail – including many
operators who only very rarely take a seat at the steering
wheel. In our cover story on page 8, you’ll find out about yet
another spectacular ComfortClass 500 achieve-ment: a Setra S 515 HD
set out to tackle the first commercial coach trip around the world
in 218 days. From early April to mid-June, the tour travelled from
Europe to the East and across Asia to Shanghai. We’ve included all
the impressive facts about this unique world tour, and you’ll have
an opportunity to read about why a Setra is particularly well
suited to take on this challenging route through Central Asia.It
isn’t only the ComfortClass 500’s power and endurance that are
impressive. Nine months after its world premiere, we are thrilled
to have received a great honour for this new generation of coaches:
on July 1, it received the coveted “red dot award 2013” for design.
The award is given by the Design Center of Nordrhein-Westfalen for
products featuring outstanding design quality. Our vehicle
impressed the international jury in the Product Design category.
The jury felt that the coach’s design conveys safety and comfort to
passengers, while fulfilling all the expectations placed on a
modern touring coach. You can read all about it on page 6.The
upcoming event highlight in the coach sector is without question
the Busworld ex-hibition in Kortrijk. I am very much looking
forward to presenting the world premiere of the TopClass 500 with
three vehicle
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16 The new benchmark in the premium class: the world premiere of
the TopClass 50026 Interior views of seat manufacturing in
Neu-Ulm08 The world’s longest commercial coach trip was undertaken
with a ComfortClass 500
Setra Content | 0504 | Setra Content
20 Through the drive train assembly line with factory tour guide
Werner Maier
Family news
07 | 60 years of Setra in SwitzerlandThe Swiss are
celebrating!
14 | Busworld 2013All Setra exhibition highlights at a
glance
19 | Welcome aboard!New Setra customers from all around the
world
32 | When drivers experience stress ...Tips on dealing with
stress in the cockpit
37 | A royal journeySweden's monarch on its anniversary tour
41 | Model-making at its bestThe S 415 GT-HD Final Edition on a
1:10 scale
44 | Excitement on the test trackDemos and test drives with the
ComfortClass 500
46 | Setra get-togethersA look back & a look ahead at shows
and exhibitions
Best in class
06 | Award-winning designComfortClass 500 wins the “red dot
award 2013”
20 | Factory tourWhat you’ve always wanted to know about drive
train assembly
22 | Travelling with the utmost in safety A close look at driver
assistance systems
26 | Why we build seats ourselvesThe quest for the perfect coach
seat
Cover
08 | Around the world in 218 daysThe ComfortClass 500 on it most
exciting trip this year
Premium service
38 | Introducing BusStoreThe new pre-owned coach and bus brand
for Europe
40 | BusDoc 2.0The new-generation OMNIplus service information
system
49 | Service “à la carte”An overview of OMNIplus
ServiceCards
Highlight
16 | The world premiere of the TopClass 500Focus on the new
flagship in coach engineering
Setra customised
18 | Hot extras for cool travelSpecial customer request: a
stand-up galley
42 | Design in paint and foilWhat needs to be considered when
paint-designing your coach
48 | An exclusive touring conceptAK Touristik opts for 2+1
seating
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60 years ago, Setra coaches, with their self-supporting bodies,
were a revolutionary innovation on the
winding mountain roads of Switzerland. Since then, customers
have been impressed with Setra’s
quality and power of innovation.
Switzerland: Setra has been rolling through the Alpine country
for 60 years:
Setra Family news | 07
the special requests of its Swiss customers. The innovative idea
of staggered seating was first implemented in the 1950s in the S 8,
S 6 and S 10 coaches, and was then introduced again in 2011.
Another special highlight in customised developments was a Setra
TopClass S 415 HD touring coach with 1+1 seating and a special
variant of the glass roof in 2003. A very positive side effect for
all of Europe is that many of the special wishes from Switzerland
were later incorporated into Setra’s series development.
In Switzerland too, the last ten years have witnessed quite
dramatic changes in the coach and bus business. Today, along with
comfort features, customers greatly value high safety standards, a
powerful engine and automatic transmission to tackle Switzerland’s
moun-tain and pass roads. Dietmar Widera, Sales Manager at EvoBus
Switzerland, with his sales team and two regional staff Dany Minder
and Etienne Cotti, are dealing with increasing numbers of customer
special requests. “We are very glad that, thanks to our high level
of expertise and experience here at EvoBus, we are always able to
bring to life useful solutions,” says Widera. And the sales figures
prove him right: in 2012, 60 new Setra coaches were delivered to
Switzerland. And now during the anniversary year, the company is
anticipating orders of similar magnitude. Over the last 60 years,
Setra has sold a total of 2,000 vehicles in Switzerland.
I n 1953, Setra general distributor Fritz Hofer with his
Moto-force company began selling coaches from Ulm in the Swiss
Confederacy. From the outset, the Swiss customers appreci-ated the
Setra coaches’ excellent road holding, high ride comfort, and
modern heating and ventilation systems. At that time, there was
nothing comparable in Switzerland and the Setra brand has enjoyed
an outstanding reputation ever since. To live up to this
reputation, Motoforce opened a new administrative building with a
service workshop and spare parts warehouse in Kloten near Zurich in
1969. Today, it houses the EvoBus Switzerland headquarters.
To this day, many of the first Swiss customers have remained
true to Setra. The exceptionally good customer relationships, many
of which still exist, were established through the personal
customer contact with company founder Fritz Hofer and his
suc-cessor Fritz Greub, who in 1978 took over management of the
Motoforce company and soon became known and respected in the
business as “Mr Setra”. In 1983, under his leadership, Moto-force
became a subsidiary of the former Karl Kässbohrer Fahrzeugwerke
company in Ulm. With the merger of Kässbohrer and the Daimler Benz
bus division into EvoBus in Stuttgart, Motoforce became part of
EvoBus Switzerland in 1995.During these 60 shared years, Setra has
always been happy to fulfil
Six months after its world premiere, the new generation of
ComfortClass 500 touring coaches
was honoured with the “red dot award 2013”. The jury in Essen,
Germany, praised the coach’s
leading-edge design which beautifully conveys safety and comfort
to passengers.
Award-winning designComfortClass 500 wins “red dot award:
product design 2013”:
06 | Setra Best in class
S ince 1955, the “red dot award” has been presented in modified
form to products featuring an exceptional design quality and which
serve as an example for excellent design and timeless aesthetics.
The prize is awarded annually in three categories by the Design
Center of Nordrhein-Westfalen. The Setra ComfortClass 500
distinguished itself with the international panel of experts in the
Product Design category.In total, over 4,660 submissions from 54
countries and 19 different product areas were assessed. Key
evaluation criteria are the product’s functionality and degree of
innovation. Does the product fulfil all requirements with regards
to operation and safety? Does the new product add new value to an
existing product? Ergonomic design, symbolic and emotive substance,
as well as environmental compatibility were also evaluated.
First-place ranking with innovative designA typical design
feature of the ComfortClass 500 is its curved line along the side
with a new decorative element – which creates a gentle motion that
surrounds the all-new vehicle. The coach’s long roof profile and
significantly more curved windshield are key to its new design
character. The front, as well as the newly designed exterior
mirrors, were optimised in numerous wind-tunnel tests. With its new
Aero rear and other detail initiatives, the Comfort-
Class 500 achieves a low drag coefficient which, until now, was
considered unattainable in this segment. Together with
environ-mentally friendly Euro VI engine technology, the coach’s
improved aerodynamics ensure significantly reduced fuel
consumption, while scoring points for environmental
performance.
The ComfortClass 500 meets the highest customer requirementsThe
37-member jury substantiated the “red dot award: product design
2013” going to the ComfortClass 500 with the fact that the series’
design fulfils everything that passengers expect from a
state-of-the-art luxury coach. Mathias Lenz and his team are also
very proud of the coveted award. The Head of Design at Daimler
Buses is delighted with the special recognition received from the
international design professionals. The very positive response from
customers to the innovative ComfortClass 500 is also highly
welcomed. “The award confirms that we’re on the right track to
evolve the design of our coaches into a trademark that clearly
embodies Setra’s brand values. We want to arouse emotion while
entirely fulfilling the needs and wants of coach operators,” says
Mathias Lenz.Setra was honoured with the red dot award on July 1 in
the context of a gala ceremony held at the Essen Alto Theater.
Award-winning smiles: “red dot award” winners Mathias Lenz
(left) and Pieter Ketele from the Setra design team.
An anniversary in Switzerland
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Avanti, the Freiburg tour operator, is enjoying this travel
year’s most exciting tour: by luxurious
coach, departing from Breisgau in Germany, travelling along the
Silk Road to Shanghai, then from
Alaska on the Pan-American highway to Tierra del Fuego. The
ultra-comfortable consort over
the close to nine-month and 52,000 kilometre-long journey is the
Setra S 515 HD from the new
ComfortClass 500 series.Around the world in 218 daysA world tour
with the ComfortClass 500:
08 | Setra Cover Setra Cover | 09
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I n the evening sun, innumerable exotic patterned tiles,
orna-ments and mosaics gleam in all shades of blue: the Madrasa of
Registan Square with its massive façades, domes and min-arets seems
to glow from within. Samarkand, the mythical city in Uzbekistan,
rises up as a blue-gold wonder – and the image grows in strength
the longer the viewer admires it. Even the accomplished
globetrotters travelling with Avanti experience it here in an
all-new way: “On independent tours like this, we have opportunities
to fully immerse ourselves in foreign, distant worlds,” says Helga
Einsle, who like all participants, is travelling for the very first
time by coach on such a long journey. “Instead of running after
deadlines, we can enjoy the time and leisure to relax.”For the
Avanti tour group, the warm spring evening in Samarkand marks the
end of the first leg of a world tour which has taken them from
Europe along the Silk Road to Central Asia: via Istanbul and
Cappadocia, past the biblical Mount Ararat, in the footsteps of
Marco Polo through Persia. Across deserts, over mountains and
through buzzing metropolises. To scenes of world history that sound
like promises from “Tales of the Arabian Nights”. And on to China,
through the Black Gobi desert and along the Yellow River to
Shanghai. The last segment of the journey began after the coach was
shipped across the Pacific ocean to Anchorage, Alaska, at the end
of July. “I’ve been travelling the world at the wheel of trucks and
buses for 35 years and I know North Africa, Central Asia and China
quite well,” says Hans-Peter Christoph, owner of Avanti Reisen and
one of the two tour drivers: “But this year’s trip is the absolute
highlight of my career.” By Christmas, the group will have
journeyed along the legendary Pan-American highway which follows
the “New World” from its northern to its southern tip: up into the
Andes, across the equator in Ecuador, then through the Peruvian
Atacama Desert to Ushuaia in Patagonia. To say the least, a mammoth
tour: 218 days, 52,000 kilometres, 26 countries, six climate zones
and four continents. Of course, Amtrak lines commute between the
large U.S. cities, and the Trans-Siberian Railway connects
Moscow
with Beijing. But these trains only stop at the stations.
Travelling by coach is something else all together: a herd of
camels happens to be roaming alongside the road through the desert?
All it takes is a quick stop to take advantage of a
once-in-a-lifetime photo oppor-tunity. The moderate pace in the
Setra opens travellers’ eyes to many sights that would otherwise
remain hidden.A journey can only be as pleasant as its method of
transportation allows. Avanti’s Managing Director Hans-Peter
Christoph has been putting his confidence in Setra for many years.
And these days, a new S 515 HD ComfortClass 500 is ensuring that
his world travellers always enjoy the utmost in comfort. His crew
knows they can rely on the best possible handling: rarely are such
extreme demands placed on a coach as in Central Asia, with its
dusty asphalt slopes, knee-deep potholes and huge bumps. These are
roads that rank among the greatest challenges ever to be
experienced behind the wheel. The optimised chassis with the
best
possible suspension and ride characteristics is working hard on
this trip. “What an exhilarating driving experience... it impresses
and amazes me again and again,” says Hans-Peter Christoph. “The
comfort standard of the new S 515 HD, compared with the Setra S 415
HDH with which we travelled the Silk Road last year, has been
greatly improved. Especially on poor roads, we can now achieve a
higher average speed.” Philosophers say that you can only really
experience a place if you approach it at moderate speed. Then the
destination is the journey itself — every day anew. On average, the
coach covers around 200 km a day. There are those pure driving
days, and then the group will stay in one place for two or three
days. So you can travel without any hurry at a leisurely pace and
with a very loose agenda. The biggest challenges are the borders.
After hours of waiting in Turkmenistan, the coach was even
confiscated for a night in Uzbekistan. So there it is: pure
adventure — even if the uncertainty may make you feel a little
queasy at times. As a full-service travel agency, Avanti makes sure
that everything that can be planned in advance is planned in
Setra Cover | 11
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advance: visas for everyone, hotel bookings, local guides and
excursions, such as a city tour in Shanghai, canoeing on the Yukon,
a casino night in Las Vegas, snorkelling in Mexico or a jungle tour
in the Amazon. And Hans-Peter Christoph knows from experience that
only meticulous preparation helps overcome the hurdles of foreign
languages, cultures and interests. Yet he learns something new
every day. His latest lesson: don’t be too hasty with baksheesh;
some conflicts can actually be solved through communication. Not
infrequently, the unusual travel group itself becomes an attraction
for the locals. In western China, the very remote part of the
mega-empire, the European “long noses” and their futuristic coach
create quite a sensation – and no one is safe from hobby
photographers. And the onward journey can only begin once all the
guests of a large wedding party are supplied with a souvenir
photograph. You just need to take the time to feel like a guest
among friends.The service technician aboard the Setra S 515 HD
monitors the coach electronics’ communication with the FleetBoard
fleet man-agement service network. Whether in Manchuria, Alaska or
the Andes, Anatoli Reklin is constantly connected with Germany. In
foreign lands, the digital connection helps tremendously, but it
doesn’t replace being able to “listen to” the engine. As in
Turkmenistan, where only low-grade diesel was for sale. “We had to
burn out the catalytic converter. In Europe, this would never ever
be needed, but a world tour has its own laws,” says Reklin. The
passengers too experience special treatment in Avanti’s
ComfortClass 500: adjustable reclining seats with special
cush-ioning upholstery, enhanced lateral support and an extra-flat
inclination. And, an extra generous distance between seats:
only
36 seats were installed instead of the usual 50 – with
face-to-face seating and tables as a special bonus. Of course,
there are more than enough 230-volt outlets to charge laptops,
cameras, mobile phones and computer tablets. The powerful air
condition-ing system always ensures a pleasant atmosphere, whether
in the desert or the Arctic Circle. And finally, in the galley, an
espresso machine always makes the finest coffee. “This level of
comfort isn’t a given in a touring coach. What an amazing
surprise,” says fellow traveller Helga Einsle about the luxury
coach’s many com-forts and amenities.Back in Samarkand: a dry, cool
evening breeze blows from the nearby Pamir Alai Mountains through
Registan Square. It displaces the day’s heat and mingles with
exotic fragrances: roses, curry, cinnamon, ginger, charcoal,
overripe grapes. With this almost over-whelming abundance of
unforgettable impressions, is it even pos-sible to single out a
particular segment of the journey? Yes it is. “The deserts of
Persia!” raves Hans-Peter Christoph. “The incredible loneliness of
the barren landscapes, where there are no settle-ments over
hundreds of kilometres. The desert has so much more to offer than
different colours of sand. There you can admire the world’s most
spectacular array of colours.” Christoph then says something that
instantly sheds light on the experience only a coach journey can
provide: “It’s the feeling of having arrived. The destina-tion is
of course the same, whether I travel by coach or by plane. But I
myself am a different person by the time I get there.”What remains
at the end of 52,000 kilometres — for any journey but especially an
Avanti world tour — is that the trials and tribulations are quickly
forgotten and the impressions are everlasting. Always in the
background, but nonetheless a vital contributor to this amazing
journey: the new Setra ComfortClass with very impressive proof of
its unprecedented reliability.
From the production line to the world’s toughest roads
Barely launched, the ComfortClass 500 was put through a test as
never experienced before. The Avanti Reisen company took on the
greatest possible challenge: the first commercial world tour by
coach. The Setra S 515 HD’s journey leads along the Silk Road and
the Pan-American highway virtually round the world. From early
April to mid-June, it travelled from Europe to the Orient and along
the Silk Road across Asia to Shanghai. Then, between July and
December, after a short passage by ship, the coach toured the
entire American continent along the Pan-American highway from
Alaska to Tierra del Fuego. The facts and figures alone are
impressive: 52,000 kilo-metres, 26 countries, four continents, five
different climate zones – and all this over a period of 218
days.
Interested in finding out more about the Avanti world tour? Then
visit www.setra-bus.de and www.busweltreise.de
12 | Setra Cover Setra Cover | 13
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14 | Setra Family news Setra Family news | 15
Exhibition highlights from KortrijkNews from Busworld 2013:
At Busworld 2013, Setra is presenting the TopClass 500, the
sensational new generation of luxury
touring coaches. With the enhanced S 431 DT double-decker coach
and the long-distance touring
version of the ComfortClass 500, two more innovations are making
headlines. Without exception, all
the vehicles exhibited in Kortrijk are equipped with the
environmentally friendly Euro VI engine. Here is
an overview of this year's highlights from Setra Family.
The world premiere of the TopClass 500The TopClass from Setra
embodies the brand like no other vehicle can – it is coach
perfection at the highest level. But the “ultimate flagship of
coach engineering”, according to Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler
Buses, should also set new standards from an emotive perspective as
well. The TopClass 500 was “designed to inspire” — and this is the
slogan used for its introduction. The three exclusive long-distance
coaches — the S 515 HDH, S 516 HDH and S 517 HDH — introduced at
the Busworld show are also exceptional luxury touring vehicles
combining superb comfort with outstanding cost-effectiveness. The
result sets an all-new benchmark in travel quality which you can
see and feel, and which adapts beautifully to the individual
business models of premium coach operators. The coaches on exhibit
feature amenity highlights such as ambient lighting with LED
technology, the TopSky panoramic glass roof and the new under-seat
fan heating. Under the hood of the TopClass 500, a 6-cylinder
in-line OM 471 engine, in conjunction with the GO 250-8 PowerShift
transmission, ensures powerful acceleration — including maximum
fuel efficiency.
The TopClass S 431 DT with Euro VIWith the enhanced S 431 DT, a
member of the TopClass 400 series can also be seen in Kortrijk. The
double-decker coach, equipped with the very powerful Euro VI “Blue
Efficiency Power” OM 471 engine, offers space for 78 passengers —
in the exhibition model. Passenger capacity can accommodate up to
93 people, depending on equipment version. Also on board are the
latest driver assistance systems, such as Active Brake Assist 2
(ABA 2), Lane Assist (SPA) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ART).
New: BusStore is the new pre-owned vehicle brand Yet another
world premiere awaits visitors to Kortrijk: BusStore, the new bus-
and coach-specific pre-owned brand from Mercedes-Benz and Setra for
purchase and sale. The European network offers a quality-approved
range of coaches and buses from all major brands and models. At
www.bus-store.com, the customer has access to the complete offering
at all locations in Europe. And, of course, BusStore also accepts
trade-ins at very fair conditions.
The ComfortClass 516 HD/2 – a specialist in long-distance
travelThere are also several interesting innovations in the
ComfortClass which has been on the market for a year. The S 516
HD/2 coach presented at the show, with the new Kinemaxx wheelchair
lift, is optimally adapted to cost-effective long-distance line
operation. Under the hood of the six-cylinder in-line OM 470
engine, the automated 8-speed transmission ensures a drive system
that is powerful yet fuel-efficient. A coin changer and hot
beverage machine are available as additional equipment. And, of
course, internet access is available to the traveller as well.
-
At the Busworld Kortrijk 2013, the new TopClass 500 is
celebrating its world premiere. The next
generation of the top-of-the-range model comes in three vehicle
lengths – and sets all-new
standards in travel experience, functionality and safety.
T The very first encounter leaves no doubt that the flagship of
an exceptional fleet of coaches is pulling up: the dis-tinctive
front of the new TopClass 500 combined with its chrome trim exudes
an all-powerful presence and authority. The utterly self-confident
message is clear: the TopClass 500 defines the summit of the world
of touring coaches. It is the forerunner of a range of models that
sets an all-new benchmark for comfort, effi-ciency and
safety.Exclusive design and high-quality materials meet up with
innovative safety systems and a drive system that is as
cost-effective as it is dynamic. Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler
Buses, is certain: “The new Setra coaches are an ideal calling card
for any coach operator who wishes to offer its customers exclusive
travel packages and only the best of the best in all respects.” The
premium three-axle TopClass 500 coaches are available in S 515 HDH,
S 516 HDH and S 517 HDH versions and in lengths from 12.5 to 14.2
metres.
The evolution of brand equity at the highest levelThe most
important requirement in the specifications catalogue for the new
TopClass 500 was the evolution of the traditional brand equity.
Therefore, the design of the leading-edge La Linea design language,
which meets the highest aesthetic and aerodynamic standards, was
further refined. To further advance the Top-Class 500’s powerful
and efficient drive, the 12.8-liter six-cylinder in-line OM 471
from the environmentally friendly Euro VI “Blue Efficiency Power”
engine generation was pulled in. It is available for
the three models S 515 HDH, S 516 HDH and S 517 HDH, each in two
power levels of 350 kW and 375 kW. The power is transmitted to the
drive axle from an automated 8-speed GO 250-8 PowerShift
transmission.
Many optional equipment possibilitiesThe wide array of optional
equipment details make each trip not only a comfortable journey,
but an unforgettable experience: for example, the TopSky panoramic
glass roof, which now has a 50 per cent larger glass area compared
to the previous TopClass 400 series. It opens up new vistas to
passengers and an even more generous feeling of space. In addition,
the TopClass models are available with LED ambient lighting, galley
and new underseat fan heating.
Innovative driver assistance and safety technologyThe most
advanced driver assistance and safety systems are available for all
vehicles in the TopClass 500 series: Adaptive Cruise Control (ART)
with Active Brake Assist 2 (ABA2), Attention Assist (AtAs), Hill
Start Assist and the topography-dependent Predictive Powertrain
Control (PPC) cruise control feature. In addition to fulfilling the
Euro VI emission standard, effective in 2014, the overall concept
of the TopClass 500 also encompasses upcoming safety provisions.
These include, for instance, the requirements for driving
assistance systems coming into force beginning in 2015, or the
directive on strengthening rollover resistance for coaches,
effective in 2017.
A new definition of luxuryWorld premiere of the TopClass
500:
16 | Setra Highlight Setra Highlight | 17
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Hot extras for cool travelStand-up galley as special customer
request:
S Some special customer requests may initially seem unusual or
even almost impossible to realise. But as challenging as they may
seem, everything will be done to fulfil them. At Setra, a dedicated
development team handles the professional coordination, testing,
planning and implementation of these special requests.Andreas
Theis, Managing Director of IDEAL REISEN coach tours in Siegen,
took advantage of the specialists’ expertise to bring his
individual business model to life. The standard of a “normal”
pedestal galley wasn’t enough to satisfy him, since it couldn’t
accommodate special catering concepts. Back in 2000, his company
ordered the first touring coach with a
stand-up galley at entrance 2 – and his ideas and requirements
were incorporated into this special order.The advantage of a
stand-up galley over a standard galley is the additional space it
allows – space an operator can use for special equipment options to
offer passengers personalised catering service during the tour.
There would, in fact, be enough space for modern on-board galley
technology such as a sausage boiler, coffee machine, hot-air oven
or microwave. Even a refrigerator which can be filled from the
outside could be installed! This high level equipment standard
makes it easy to pro-vide exceptional services to passengers. A
curtain and vapour fan make sure that passengers are not disturbed
and that
food odours don’t enter the passenger compartment. The board
hostess can be called upon using a button at each seat and, for
example in the case of IDEAL REISEN, she could serve typical
regional “delicacies” such as a delicious Bavarian breakfast when
travelling through Bavaria.Galleys such as these have become the
standard in every one of IDEAL REISEN’s coaches. And many other
tour operators area also opting for similar special custom-er
requests to equip their TopClass or ComfortClass coach. Depending
on the amenities selected, up to two rows of seats may need to be
taken over, but the extra service and resulting enhanced customer
satisfaction makes the stand-up galley a worthwhile investment.
Coach operators looking for customised solutions are in good
hands at Setra. When designing their
new coach, a development team ensures that special customer
requests are fulfilled, such as a
stand-up galley.
18 | Setra customised
Denmark: Bergholdt A/S, Rudkøbing • Germany:
Alfredo-Tournee-Service, Insul • Baumann, Waghäusel • Bayerisches
Rotes Kreuz Erlangen-Höchstadt, Erlangen • Bengel-Reisen, Wonfurt •
Bils, Telgte • Busfahrer Touristik, Hünfelden • City 6000,
Heinsberg • Duso-lt, Bergrheinfeld • Elbus Reisen, Freudenberg •
Fredrich, Lohfelden • Genthner, Colmberg • GGV (Grimm), Mudau •
Heuel, Drolshagen • Kilg, Greding • Klas-Reisen, Höhr-Grenzhausen •
Klingenfuß, Velbert • Letco, Krombach • Liebelt, Lossatal • Mayer,
Neckargemünd • Millireisen, Darmstadt • MT-Reisen, Angelbachtal •
Mußhoff, Lippstadt • Nees, Krombach • Raddatz,Oberboihingen •
Reisebüro am Tibusplatz, Münster • Sandrock, Sontra • Schilk,
Geiselwind • Schmätjen, Steinfeld • Schmidt, Bad Laasphe •
Schröder, Neuss • Seitz & Stöhr, Betzenstein • Stricker,
Lauingen • Sutter, Münstertal • Theiß-Reisen, Weißenborn • Ulmer,
Rottenburg • Vetter, Lossatal-Falk-enhein • Vokuhl, Mölln • Wied,
Bad Laasphe • Zimmermann, Wipperfürth • France: Lacroix Locations
Gie, Beauchamp • Paris Ultental Reisen KG des Paris G., Ulten •
Great Britain: Mott's Coaches (Aylesbury) Ltd, Buckinghamshire •
Italy: F.lli Stenghele di Stenghele Francesco Gino e C. Snc,
Lavarone • Formentin Vincenzo & C. Snc, Conselve • Segesta
Internazionale Srl, Palermo • The Netherlands: Martinus Tours
v.o.f., Waverveen • Austria: Bregenzerwald Bus GmbH, Hittisau •
Hermann Grabner Autobusunternehmen, Hainfeld • Karl Lackner
Autobusunernehmen, St. Bartholomä • Siegfried Paar, Ramplach •
Ecker, Steinhaus • Poland: BP Tour, Lublin • Gwizdziel, Cho-jnice •
JK Sp. z o.o., Trzebownisko • Neobus, Niebylec • PKS, Zary •
Renusz, Lebcz • Soltysik, Gliwice• Romania: Metropolitan,
Con-stanta • Reisebüro Kessler, Sibiu • Sweden: Gustavssons
Busstrafik AB, Mullsjö • Ringarums Busstrafik, Ringarum • Tingsryds
Buss, Tingsryd • Switzerland: Albus Zürich GmbH, Zurich •
Autobetrieb Weesen-Amden, Amden • Automobilverkehr
Frutigen-Adelboden AG, Adelboden • Fontana + Co.
PostAutounternehmen, Ilanz • Garage Gremlich, Givrins • Heggli AG,
Kriens • Impressari AutoDaPosta, Armin Bundi, Disentis/Mustér •
PostAuto Schweiz AG Region Bern Filiale Interlaken, Interlaken •
PostAuto Schweiz AG Region Graubünden Geschäftsstelle Chur, Chur •
PostAuto Schweiz AG Region Wallis Filiale Brig, Brig • Surprise
Reisen AG, Sommeri • Terretaz SA, Zernez • Transports Sierre-
Anniviers-Régions Sàrl, Sierre • Czech Republic: Lilija Reisen CZ,
s.r.o., Karlovy Vary • Terma Travel Cz Service And Transport,
s.r.o., Praha 1 • USA: Corporate Coach Charter & Tours, Inc.,
Inglewood, CA • National Luxury Coach, LLC, Portland, OR • Silver
Star Limo, Yonkers, NY • Silverado Stages, San Luis Obispo, CA
Welcome to the Setra Family
Proven RCA connectors are ideal for connecting entertainment
electronics. And, on request, they can
be installed in every Setra coach or bus.
Inexpensive and very versatileRCA connectors:
W ith additional connections for elec-tronic devices, operators
can offer their passengers state-of-the-art and var-ied media
access. RCA connectors offer decisive advantages: they are
inexpensive to purchase and operators can maintain vendor
independence.“RCAs”, which are referred to as standard-ised
connectors, exchange electrical sig-nals. Still today, universal
RCA connectors are found on almost all hi-fi and video equipment
for transmitting analogue video and audio data. The RCA connector
is characterised by simple design and ease of handling. And, for
just a few euros in any electronics store, you can buy adapter sets
with a variety of cables for all possible
device applications, whether SCART, VGA, S-Video, USB,
micro-USB, XLR, BNC, SPK or jack, mono or stereo.If you want to
connect a video or audio device in your coach or bus, you’ll need a
12 V cigarette lighter socket or a 230 V safety or earthed socket
for the power
supply. Both installations complement the RCA connectors, making
the universal set complete. You can either install them in the
instrument panel, which is handy for the driver or attendant, or in
the first row for the tour guide. Not only versatility, but also
great sound quality is guaranteed!
Setra Family news | 19
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Setra Best in class | 21
“The drive train breathes life into the coach”Up to 16 drive
trains are assembled and installed at the plant in Neu-Ulm every
day. SetraFamily spoke
with factory tour guide Werner Maier about the heart of every
Setra bus.
Factory tour – drive train assembly:
20 | Setra Best in class
Mr Maier, here we are in the assembly hall at the station where
drive train assembly takes place. First of all: what exactly is a
drive train?The main function of the drive train is to drive the
bus. Further-more, it generates energy to
ensure the functioning of individual bus systems, such as
electrical and electronics, hydraulics, compressed air and air
conditioning. A drive train includes virtually everything that
breathes life into the bus: engine, transmission, clutch, etc. A
total of around 40 compo-nents are assembled into a drive
train.
And how exactly does it work?First, an aggregate of three main
positions, namely the engine, transmission and retarder, are
pre-assembled. In parallel, the transmission is prepared: clutch,
clutch bell and gearboxes are flanged to the engine. Then, the
motor bearings, compressor, alternator and belts are placed and
tensioned. And finally, the propeller shaft is mounted. It’s
especially important that the workers strictly adhere to the
prescribed tightening torques, when tightening joints, so that
everything fits properly and permanently.
Sounds quite exhausting.If you mean it calls for a high level of
concentration, you're right. Physically, however, each step is
designed so that the operator can work comfortably, safely and
easily. For example, there are special lifting devices for all
parts weighing over 15 kilograms. This allows the worker to fully
concentrate on the technology and produce the outstanding quality
that distinguishes Setra coaches and buses.
How long does it take to pre-assemble an engine or drive
train?One worker can assemble one drive train a day.
And then how does the fully assembled drive train actually get
into the bus?It is driven into the engine compartment on a special
mounting trolley. The bus is positioned on a high transport
carrier, so that the worker has easy access from below. He can then
install up to 18 connection ports for water, air and electrics
which connect the bus systems with the drive train.
And when does the Setra drive train run for the first
time?During the technical inspection and testing in the finishing
hall, some 800 checkpoints are tested for their function. The
engine test run is then carried out at the end of the assembly line
in a soundproof booth. By the way, we do this because of the noise,
not because of the exhaust gases. Thanks to Euro VI engine
technology, the exhaust is so clean that we no longer have to
intercept it. This is where we can verify that all joints are tight
and all connections intact.
And how often are improvements necessary?Practically never. In
less than one per cent of cases, a cable may leak. But that's about
it.
And then it's off to the customer?No, not yet! After the
technical inspection, we still have to carry out the test drive on
public roads – in all kinds of weather. Only then can the heart of
every Setra prove that it’s in exactly the right spot – working
hard alongside the customer over hundreds of thousands of
kilometres.
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Passenger and driver safety plays a decisive role for coach
operators. Both active and passive safety
systems are of huge importance. SetraFamily did some
investigating and has compiled vital
infor mation on active assistance systems, such as Adaptive
Cruise Control, Stop Assist, Active Brake
Assist 2 and Lane Assist.
T he coach is still the safest means of road transportation.
According to the German Federal Statistics Office, only about 1.5
per cent of all victims of German road traffic accidents in 2012
were occupants of a bus or coach. And touring coaches have proven
to be especially safe. This is also due to the high level of
importance the issue of safety enjoys today among manufacturers and
coach operators. Setra relies on an integrated safety system which
has been continuously refined and perfected over the years. “We
send our drivers to safety training regularly," says Karsten
Schulze, CEO of the long-established Haru Reisen company in Berlin.
“However, there is always a residual risk through the human factor,
which is virtually eliminated by the safety assistance
systems.”
Safety – real added valueThanks to advanced assistance systems,
drivers and passengers benefit from the highest possible level of
safety. And this is key purchase criterion for bus and coach
operators. “Passenger safety is of paramount importance,” stresses
Haru CEO Karsten Schulze,
High-tech for more safetyA close look at Setra’s driver
assistance systems:
22 | Setra Best in class Setra Best in class | 23
adding: “Setra systems are the best on the market and they offer
tremendous added value.” Lutz Siepen, Managing Director of Siepen
Reisen in Düren, near Cologne, confirms that operators, drivers and
customers are well aware of the fact that Setra coaches deliver a
high level of passive safety. “We also communicate this value to
our passengers. They know many of these features from their own
cars, and especially from Mercedes- Benz products,” he says. And
finally, operators also benefit from the assistance systems as they
compete for the best drivers. As Siepen adds: “With Adaptive Cruise
Control, Lane Assist and Active Brake Assist, the time spent at the
wheel is a bona fide pleasure for the driver.”
“Passenger safety is
the most precious asset.” Karsten Schulze, Haru CEO
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Keeps dangers at a distance: Adaptive Cruise Control (ART)One of
the most important assistance systems is the Adaptive Cruise
Control feature. The most common causes for the relatively rare
accidents with coaches are too small a safety distance to the
vehicle ahead, and wrong braking behaviour on the part of the
driver. Adaptive Cruise Control automatically adjusts the speed of
the coach to that of the vehicle ahead and maintains a safety
distance pre-set by the driver. A radar continuously measures the
distance to the vehicle ahead. The long-range mode has a reach of
up to 200 metres. In addition, a short-range mode scans the road up
to a distance of 50 metres to capture the immediate area at the
front of the coach.Adaptive Cruise Control is easy to operate using
the steering wheel keypad. By default, it is set to a safety
distance of around 60 per cent of the speedometer speed, but the
driver can individually set the safety distance between 40 and 100
per cent of the speedometer reading distance. Should the safety
distance to the vehicle ahead be undercut, without the driver
responding, it will automatically and gently brake until the safety
distance is restored, using continuous braking (retarder and engine
brake) and, if required, the service brake. If the distance to the
vehicle ahead is exceeded, Adaptive Cruise Control will
automatically accelerate the coach to the set speed
setting.Adaptive Cruise Control (ART) has been available with the
ComfortClass 400 since 2005. For the ComfortClass 500, it has now
also been added along with a Stop Assist feature. With the Stop
Assist feature (AA), the ART remains active at speeds below 15
km/h, which provides the driver with a valuable service especially
in congested traffic. Stop Assist will decelerate the vehicle to a
standstill. As soon as the driver presses either the accelerator
pedal or the resume button, the system brings the ComfortClass 500
back to the set speed. The steady deceleration and acceleration
make for a more comfortable ride for passengers, while relieving
the driver.
Thinks along with you and brakes as needed: Active Brake Assist
2 (ABA 2)Even if you’re travelling comfortably and safely under the
ever-watchful ART, an unforeseen emergency situation can arise at
any time. If the safety distance to the vehicle ahead dramatically
and suddenly decreases, for example at the tail end of an
unexpected traffic jam, another safety system kicks in: Active
Brake Assist 2 (ABA 2). This assistance system is conceived to
prevent rear-end collisions by warning the driver when a collision
is imminent and then initiating emergency braking.
A video camera behind the windscreen detects the distance of the
coach to the laterally extending lane marking lines. The system’s
powerful microcomputer evaluates the images.
If the driver begins to drift off-lane and runs over one of the
side marking lines, Lane Assist warns him with a vibration in the
seat on the respective side. In addition, a warning appears in the
instrument panel.
If the driver intentionally activates the turn signal to change
lanes or overtake, the warning will be suppressed. The same applies
if he accelerates or brakes.
The latest generation of Active Brake Assist, ABA 2, not only
reacts to vehicles driving ahead, but also to stationary obstacles,
and warns the driver in advance of a collision. If his response
comes too late, the ABA 2 can mitigate the impact of an accident
through automatic par-tial braking. Since there are many stationary
objects on the road, such as traffic islands or traffic signs, the
system doesn’t initiate full braking in this case, to avoid
unintended emergency braking.The driver can cancel the Active Brake
Assist 2’s automatic braking by responding to the danger himself,
for instance by braking, blinking or dodging the obstacle. If the
full emergency braking has already been triggered, the driver can
only stop it using a “kickdown” or by turning off the system. With
the ABA 2 button on the control panel, the driver can at any time
switch the assistance system’s brake inter-vention on and off, and
the visual warning display nonetheless re-mains active.
Keeps the coach on course: Lane AssistAnother useful safety
assistance system for the driver is the Lane Assist feature, which
was already integrated to the Comfort-Class 400 and developed
further for the ComfortClass 500. Lane Assist is only active at a
speed of 70 km/h or more. This way, error messages can be avoided,
for example, in city traffic. The system also detects ambiguous
road markings – such as in con-
struction sites – and then switches to passive mode. In contrast
to ART and ABA 2, Lane Assist doesn’t actively intervene in the
actual driving process. Beginning in November, the Lane Assist
feature must be installed in all new bus and truck models in the
EU, and beginning in November 2015, the system will be compulsory
for all newly registered coaches.
24 | Setra Best in class Setra Best in class | 25
The radar scans the road up to 200 metres in the long-range mode
(1) and up to 50 metres in the short-range mode (2) adjusting the
speed to that of the traffic ahead using the Adaptive Cruise
Control.
+ 9°
12
- 9°
+ 28°
- 28°
Active Brake Assist 2 permanently analyses the traffic situation
ahead of the coach. If the distance to a vehicle or obstacle ahead
becomes threatening, the ABA 2 feature warns the driver, first via
a red warning light on the central display on the instrument panel.
In addition, a warning tone sounds. If the driver still doesn’t
respond to the dangerous situation, Active Brake Assist 2 triggers
a steadily increasing partial braking. If the driver still doesn’t
actively brake by the time a critical point has been reached, the
system automatically responds with a full braking. Then, the
coach’s hazard lights are automatically turned on and the brakes
will stop the vehicle in its position for a maximum of five
seconds.
Various warning levels alert the driver to the danger of a
rear-end collision and give him an opportunity to actively
intervene.
1 Normal case area/ART control range2 Visual warning3 Acoustic
warning4 Partial breaking5 Full breaking (for moving objects)
Tx Level of warning cascadeTime (t) time axis
time (t)
12
3 4 5
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The seat is at the heart of the exceptional travel comfort
offered in a Setra coach. And that’s why
EvoBus is one of the very few coach manufacturers to produce its
own seats. The current generation
of seats has set new standards in terms of comfort, operation
and style. But there is no time to rest
on our laurels: at Setra, the pursuit of the perfect coach seat
calls for non-stop research and
development. SetraFamily took a glance over the shoulders of
those in charge.
Why we build our own seats
EvoBus is the largest manufacturer of touring coach seats in
Europe: T he new seat generation, which has been gradually
introduced since 2010, is not only characterised by extensive
variety and design, but also by the fact that it represents a
significant step forward in comfort, weight, operation and safety.
For instance, the all-new armrests can be folded down very easily
on the aisle side. The transverse adjustment and adjustment of the
backrest are also more intuitive to use. New support concepts for
backrests and side adjustment also reduce seat vibrations while
driving to a minimum. The results are seats that are as easy to
operate as they are comfortable. Their launch, however, suffered a
setback: “We’re aware that our customers’ expectations are
particularly high when it comes to Setra – and we’re proud to be
developing and building to such high standards here in Neu-Ulm,”
says Martin Gaub, project manager of the new seat generation. “All
the more annoying when weaknesses started appearing suddenly after
all the testing was done for the first production series. Since
then, we have done everything possible to restore the reputation of
the new seat generation. Every imperfection was looked at very
closely and solutions were finetuned. When necessary, changes were
made very consistently and then stringently tested again. Now we
have reached an excellent level!” the specialists are
convinced.
A heritage of high standardsThe Setra story since the launch of
the brand was always one of seating comfort. After all, we want
passengers who travel in our coaches for hours to arrive at their
destination as relaxed and refreshed as possible. Along with
Setra’s famous advances in the areas of ventilation and vehicle
suspension, coach seating has always been a key area of focus. Way
back when, a straightforward sitting test was the only measure for
approval of developments. Today, the process is followed in
accordance with legal regulations, as well as our own testing of
ergonomics, function and comfort. Current research and development
focuses on robust lightweight, enhanced flexibility in use and the
role of the seat within an integrated safety concept. The standard,
however, hasn’t changed. For this very reason, we regularly perform
large-scale comparative
26 | Setra Best in class Setra Best in class | 27
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testing between our own seats and those manufactured by other
suppliers: how do we compare in terms of comfort and ease of use?
How sturdy is the seat and can individual customer requirements be
satisfied? Once all comparisons are finalised, looking at all
evaluation criteria, our seats represent the standard in our
sector.
Seats as individual as a Setra“The advantage of our in-factory
manufacturing is that we can create the ideal seat in all desired
versions for each and every coach,” emphasises Martin Gaub. “The
customer then capitalises on the added value from having his fully
customised coach. Colour, number of seats, seat features and
equipment – our customers can pick and choose from our very
extensive selection to customise the interior of their dream
coach.” Along with selecting the seat design, type of fabric and
pattern, customers can also determine, for instance, the thickness
of the upholstery and the seat cushion. Furthermore, the type of
armrest as well as several add-ons can be chosen, such as
footrests, leg rests, tables and multimedia components. “With our
seats, it’s just like with our buses,” says project head Martin
Gaub. “Everyone gets their own individual seat.”But there is also
something that the customer cannot choose. Every seat automatically
incorporates decades of Setra expertise
feature, but also a key safety feature in a coach – with, for
instance, EvoBus’ unique floor anchoring, the stiffness of the
support structure and the design of impact surfaces. And in all
cases, legal guidelines are exceeded.
Up to 800 seats per dayOnce a seat prototype has passed testing,
it is most often destined to become a bestseller. 180,000 seats per
year – or about 800 seats each day – are produced at our seat
manufacturing facility in
which has been developed and evolved through comprehensive
testing and ongoing optimisation processes. A Setra seat needs to
serve a coach a whole life long. Our seats are subjected to
strictly defined testing on their long journey towards being ready
for production. This is also something we have looked at very
closely.
Test series for maximum protection against wear“Clack, clack,
clack...” the repetitive noise knows no mercy. The mechanical arm
seems to ruthlessly attack the armrest from above – over and over
again. Armrest load testing is part and parcel of the functional
and wear tests in the development testing laboratory. This is where
prototypes for the next generation of seats are already being
subjected to their first component strength tests to ensure maximum
wear protection – even against vandalism.In addition to testing
armrests, tensile tests on handles and seat backs, for instance,
also count among the tests undergone to prevent deformation of
these components during a coach’s demanding service life. Even
purely functional components such as the gas spring supports,
footrests, nets and tables are subjected to endurance testing.New
materials and equipment features require constant updating of the
test series. “Testing passive passenger safety plays a key role in
the testing programme. The seat is not only a comfort
Neu-Ulm. This includes, along with our standard seats, cinema
and sliding seating, staggered seating, the new Setra club corner
or the 2+1 seating derived from the new seating concept. Other
seating variants are already being planned – and we look forward to
providing our readers with progress reports.
Assembling a coach seat requires a good deal of manual
dexterity. Upholstering the backrests calls for hands-on
skills.
In complex test procedures, every seat prototype has to prove
its endurance.
28 | Setra Best in class Setra Best in class | 29
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W ith 25 million passengers and over 270,000 take-offs and
landings yearly, Zurich is the largest airport in Switzerland and a
hub for major airlines – with departures to many destinations
worldwide. The international airport is a magnet for countless
tourists who dream of faraway destinations and are seduced by the
location’s fascinating dynamics. The airport’s sheer size is best
explored by taking a tour in a state-of-the-art coach.On
sightseeing tours of the Zurich airport, visitors can make
themselves comfortable in the conveniently located and luxuriously
appointed Setra ComfortClass 400. The tour program, which is
conducted by the Airport organisation, includes an excursion to the
hangar installations, to the fire department or the so-called
runway
W ith the new Setra ComfortClass now being equipped with new
Euro VI engines, more and more MultiClass models are also
benefitting from the “Blue Efficiency Power” engine generation from
Mercedes-Benz. And with this in mind, the family-managed BBS
Brandner Bus Schwaben company is taking on an important pioneering
role in the Günzburg, Neu-Ulm, Augsburg-Land and Lower Allgäu
districts.The MultiClass service buses now in service are the first
to be equipped with the new OM 470 Euro VI engine. For the bus
operator, this is an absolutely cost-effective investment. “For us
as a forward-
T he Karlssonbuss company in Vaggeryds won large parts of a
public tender for local bus service in Kronoberg over a 10-year
timeframe. And the brand decision was made in favour of Setra. In
October 2012, to offer passengers the best comfort and latest
technology, Karlssonbuss ordered 50 buses from models S 417 and S
416 UL. The new MultiClass buses are equipped with double doors, a
wheelchair lift, surveillance equipment and an infotainment system.
Competitors Gerts Busstrafik, Ryssbybygdens Buss and Buss Tingsryds
won the remaining parts of the tender and also decided to purchase
Setra buses. All in all, a wonderful confirmation of Setra’s
appeal.The most important benefit for Karlssonbus is the dual
contract covering the vehicle itself and service which ensures the
best possible vehicle condition and availability – with costs that
are easy to calculate and plan. This guarantees the company an
attractive overall package. The specialists of BusWorld Home in
Vetlanda are already in close ongoing contact with the bus company.
A key facet of the aftersales package consists of product training
sessions that give the customer an opportunity to make the most of
all the advantages offered by Setra vehicles.
intersection, where departures of passenger aircraft to faraway
destinations can be experienced up close.The S 415 GT-HD, with its
high-quality finish, depicting the airport panorama, is also ready
and available for other applications as needed. If European
short-haul flights are cancelled, passengers are transferred to the
airport coach. For example, from Zurich to Stuttgart, Munich or
Nuremberg. In fact, the S 415 GT-HD "Final Edition" is the first
coach in Switzerland to be equipped with three-point belts.
Advanced safety systems such as Lane Assist, or Adaptive Cruise
Control with Active Brake Assist, ensure maximum safety for
passengers. By coach or by plane, state-of-the-art technology has
top priority.
looking company, it only makes sense that state-of-the-art bus
technology becomes the standard in our fleet,” explained CEO Josef
Brandner at the festive handover of the vehicles. “As a company, we
benefit from reduced fuel consumption compared to Euro V. And our
passengers can rest assured that they are travelling with the most
environmentally friendly buses currently available in this market
segment.”The high-tech OM 470 engine’s revolutionary diesel
injection system is what persuaded BBS Brandner. The common-rail
injection with X-pulse pressure amplification leads to high
injection pressures of up to 2,300 bar throughout a freely
modulated injection process. This pressure boost enables a
reduction of displacement volume from 12 l to 10.7 l compared with
the Euro V forerunner engine – saving both space and weight. With
sophisticated exhaust gas treatment, it is actually possible to
reduce the nitrogen oxide by 80% compared to Euro V and diesel
particulate matter by 66%. The attraction force, on the other hand,
is increased, thanks to the further optimised torque. With the new
Euro VI engine, BBS Brandner is ideally equipped to maintain its
position at the forefront of line-haul service.
BusWorld Home in Vetlanda is one of 600 OMNIplus service centers
across Europe. The Swedish service center provides all diagnostics
and bus-specific repairs, as well as repairs of body damage,
paintwork and tire service. The highest parts availability, 24-hour
service with staff that is trained and certified on a continuous
basis are key to its exceptional offering.
High-tech for line-haul serviceZurich Airport orders an S 415
GT-HD: The first Euro VI MultiClass deliveries:
T he deregulation of long-distance coach service has brought
movement into the German bus and coach sector, as well as continued
expansion of line-haul networks. This also applies to the Berlin
Linien Bus company. “We have finally been able to fill the gaps in
our current offering and to attract new partners from the small to
medium-sized business community, with whom we can now offer what is
currently the largest line-haul network in Germany,” says CEO
Karsten Schulze. With its nine cooperating bus operators, the
umbrella company which is based in Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf
connects Berlin and other German cities with more than 300
destinations in Germany and Europe. “We don’t rely on
subcontractors. We see ourselves as a service provider for
reputable bus companies,” says Jörg Schaube, who runs the business
together with Karsten Schulze. He adds: “By the end of the sixties,
the routes to and from Berlin were served by several companies. Our
philosophy was to effectively bring together these different
offerings.”Over the past 40 years – and long before the
deregulation of long-
distance service lines – the successful model has continued to
expand and, in the eighties, was even complemented by international
connections, for example, to Antwerp, Brussels and Paris. Today,
around 80 buses serve the network which now comprises 30 lines –
and is rising. In addition to its extensive range of routes, Berlin
Linien Bus places great importance on comfortable coach travel –
and double-decker Setra S 431 DT coaches are used on the most
popular routes to Hamburg, Dresden and Munich.
Pioneers in long-distance coach servicesSuccess with an
aftersales warrantyBerlin Linien Bus offers the largest German
line-haul network:65 new buses for Sweden:
With Setra double-decker coaches used for long-distance
services. The two directors of the Berlin Linien Bus company
Karsten Schulze (right) and Jörg Schaube.
Roll-out of a new Setra coach
30 | Setra Family news Setra Family news | 31
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Lisa Falkenberg is a graduate psychologist and trainer for
leadership coaching, workplace and traffic safety, and process
support for organisational development. She is a consultant and
trainer for practical driving programs – as per the guidelines of
the German Road Safety Council – and she trains trainers on its
behalf.
32 | Setra Family news
Ms Falkenberg, what is generally referred to as stress?Stress in
its true sense of the word isn’t necessarily what many people refer
to as stress. These days, almost everyone experiences varying
degrees of “stress”. Real stress, however, refers to the mental and
physical reactions that enable us as humans to take on and meet
specific demands. Stress is our body’s natural response and it
makes us more efficient in stressful situations. If a short-term
feeling of stress becomes chronic, then stress can be danger-ous.
Those affected may feel permanently strained and over-whelmed, as
the increased energy expenditure saps their energy.
So how does this “real” stress develop?For real stress to form,
there needs to be a specific cause, or so-called trigger. How
strongly the resulting stress is perceived varies from person to
person. Whereas one person may enjoy the prospect of a new
assignment, another may be terrified. Stress arises when we
perceive things as a threat, and when we see no way of coping with
this stress.
And what types of stress are there?On the one hand, there’s the
stress that comes from the outside:
situations that you can’t control, such a traffic jam or the
weather, etc. And then, there’s the stress that we create
ourselves. This can arise, for example, from fictitious scenarios
that we imagine. We get all caught up with them and develop
downright fear scenarios.
And now, looking specifically at the bus sector: what are the
most common stressful situations for drivers?It begins with
environmental factors such as heat, cold, poor visibility due to
rain, snow or fog, and continues with sounds like traffic noise,
music, phones and conversations, through to factors such as shift
work, vibration, continuous sitting – to name just a few. For bus
drivers, external stress can also be a construction site or a
traffic jam, both of which they can’t change, although a timetable
needs to be kept up with. Then there is the self-made stress. Fear,
for example, in the case of a class trip. The anxiety: what will
the students do to my bus – or to me? As a driver, you can be
overcome with tension even before the journey begins.
How can a bus driver best face these stressful situations?Using
the example of a traffic jam, it’s best to inform the passengers
immediately. This way, you can avoid many individual questions.
With an announcement – brief and to the point – drivers can reduce
stress among the passengers – and for themselves too. In the case
of self-made stress, it’s important that each of us finds something
we enjoy in our private lives. It’s vital to achieve a balance, to
be able to relax. In some situations, it may even be possible to
take the wind out of a grumbling passenger’s sail with humour, or
by finding just the right way of formulating an answer.
And if one day my fear scenario actually takes place and I have
to deal with rowdy passengers on the bus?One possibility is to
intervene early with young rowdies. You could simply tell them that
the bus will stop until things quiet down. A good strategy may be
to turn the alleged “ringleader” into an ally, who can then make
the others see reason. The last resort is to call
the police – and not to wait too long before doing so – if the
situation doesn’t appear to be calming down on its own.
After an experience like this, is a driver not totally stressed
before the next trip? Or can you train “de-escalation”?This is
precisely the type of conflict situation that we practice in the
“Keep cool on the road!” driver training from OMNIplus: how do you
react properly in a particularly stressful situation? We know from
experience that being able to master the right de-escalation
strategy enhances a feeling of certainty and self-confidence for
the next stressful situation. In the group, we develop suitable
responses to various stressful scenarios. I guess you could call it
developing the art of “quick-wittedness”.
Are there fundamental rules that bus drivers can follow to
reduce stress?Yes, definitely. There are, for example, appropriate
formulations for very standard situations such as how to greet
passengers before departure. If a driver introduces himself in a
way that makes him and the company likeable, in a way that
motivates the passengers and arouses a pleasant and fun feeling
right off, then half the battle is won. In our presentation
training, we address how to achieve this. We record drivers while
they greet passengers and then we discuss it in the group. Several
drivers have no idea what kind of an impression they make when
they’re in front of a group. And many even begin by highlighting
all the potential problems that can arise: don’t make a mess, use
the WC properly, keep the aisle free... This isn’t a great way to
begin a trip that’s going to extend over a few hours or even a few
days. One of the first things I’ve got to do as a driver is get the
passengers on my side.
What can operators or company owners do to relieve their drivers
of stress?Here too, there are a few approaches that work. When
planning trips, be sure to include enough rest periods for the
drivers. Make sure the drivers are very familiar with the vehicles,
in other words, give them a good introduction to the coach. It is
very helpful for the driver to know that the operator is behind
him. Sometimes, there are seemingly trivial situations that can
really get out of control. For example, if a passenger doesn’t get
exactly the seat he wants on the return trip, or if a piece of
luggage has to be placed on its side rather than standing. If the
operator, over the phone, can confirm what the driver has already
said, many passengers will be willing to accept it. It’s important
to give the driver the assurance that he can get in touch with home
base if problems arise on the road. Sometimes it’s enough that a
disgruntled passenger has a chance to talk to the boss, and the
issue is solved.
Setra Family news | 33
Congestion and creeping motorists, rowdy passengers, loud noise
and time pressure – bus drivers often
experience tremendous stress. SetraFamily spoke with
psychologist Lisa Falkenberg, who points the way
towards solutions for stress management in the OMNIplus
communication and conflict training.
Keep your cool!Stress on the road:
You’ll find more information on the OMNIplus “Keep cool on the
road!” communication and conflict training at www.omniplus.com
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The big little coach!
To commemorate the 60th an
niversary of the Setra brand,
we collected stories about Se
tra coaches
and buses from around the wo
rld – at times touching, at tim
es funny and always entertain
ing. In this
issue of the SetraFamily, we a
re delighted to present two m
ore of these unique anecdot
es.
Real-life Setra stories
Coach and bus stories from
the Setra Family:
When Dreams Come True
Setra Family news | 35
E ven as a small child, Wo
lfgang Kurz
had a great passion. While
other
children his age dreamt of
model
cars, his great love was for th
e Setra coaches
that made up his father’s co
mmercial fleet.
His parents weren’t all too
surprised that
the first word to come out
of his mouth
wasn’t “Mama” or “Papa”, bu
t “Se-te-tra”.
In the summer of 1992, Wo
lfgang went on
a school trip to Ulm. He wa
s 15 years old.
A visit to the Münster cathed
ral was on the
agenda. While visiting the ch
urch, everyone
was told they could leave
a card behind
with their personal wish – wh
ich would then
supposedly come true. Th
e young and
very loyal Setra fan quickly w
rote down his
wish. At around the same tim
e, his parents
were finalising their decis
ion on which
brand to choose for the
an upcoming
coach purchase. However,
it would seem
that chances were not in fa
vour of Setra.
Nonetheless, without even
having to think
about it, Wolfgang wrote do
wn his “coach
wish” – and hoped for divine
intervention.
Soon after that, his father re
ported that he
would soon be picking up his
new coach at
“Kässbohrer’s”. Wolfgang w
as still a little
sceptical. It was only on Dece
mber 6, 1992,
when he and his parents
were actually
standing right in front of th
eir new S 215
HRI-GT in Ulm that he belie
ved his good
fortune. This was a very spec
ial day for him
for many reasons. He could
skip school –
with his father’s permission!
The wish that Wolfgang h
ad left at the
Münster had come true. La
ter, he learned
that Otto Kässbohrer had do
nated a window
to the cathedral in 1977: t
he “window of
fulfilment.” Now if that isn’t a
sign!
Submitted by Wolfgang Kurz,
Pliezhausen
J ohannes Backes has many stories to tell. When a replacement
driver was needed two years ago for the “Setra Grand Prix” at the
Nürburgring, he spontaneously jumped at the opportunity. The event
was all about skill and safety at the wheel, as well as the
“instincts” needed for economical driving. Referring to his second
place performance among 120 drivers, he commented almost
offhandedly: “When I was a kid, I was able to manoeuvre our
company’s Setra in the courtyard.” Johannes also likes to recall
another anecdote – a story that took place when he was just five
years old:Back in the early 60s, his parents were what you’d call
real bus pioneers. After legislature had forbidden middle aisle
seats
in coaches, valuable seat capacity was lost in one fell swoop.
And, as Kässbohrer presented the S 14 as the solution for this
problem at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1961, his father was among
the first proud takers of this “little” space miracle. The coach,
with a Henschel direct-injection diesel engine and 170 hp, was only
12 m long. It was not only the first coach to fea-ture anti-fog
double windscreens, but his father's model also boasted a
surprisingly high seating capacity. Johannes Backes recalls:
“Usually, 59 passengers would have room in an S 14 with 14 rows.
Through a special permit for the Saarland region, a further 12
emergency seats could be added – by folding them down in the aisle.
This totalled 71 seats in my father’s coach.”
Hardly anyone had ever seen such a futuristic coach – and
certainly not at the remote Austrian mountain inn on the High
Alpine road towards which his parents were headed. Johannes Backes’
father had called in to book lunch for 71 guests. As he drove up to
the inn with his coach, the innkeeper asked somewhat worried:
“Where’s the second coach? Was there an accident?” As he then saw
the many travellers exiting the coach, he walked around it three
times, came back astonished, shook his head and kept muttering: “It
simply can’t be, it can’t be – all these people were in this
coach?” Submitted by Johannes Backes, Weiskirchen
-
The endless fascination of double-deckers75th Setra coach for
Fromm Reisen:
T his new coach is Fromm Reisen’s latest pride and joy. The S
431 DT, which the company picked up the Setra CustomerCenter, is a
very special double-decker for the Fromm family: it is the 75th
vehicle in their operation to carry the Setra name.In addition to
the 75th coach, the three managing partners, Alexander, Peter and
Sigrid Fromm, who run the family business in its third generation,
also took over an S 417 GT-HD ComfortClass 400 as well as an S 415
HD and S 416 HDH from the TopClass 400 series.All four coaches are
ideally equipped for long-distance tours with on-board galleys,
reclining seats with side and back adjustment, high-quality air
conditioning systems with auxiliary heating units, and advanced
multimedia systems.The Swabian company travelled with 50 of its
customers to pick up the coaches. “The very positive feedback from
our passengers confirms we made the right decision with these
coaches,” commented Alexander Fromm. Along with a high standard of
comfort and safety, and the latest in coach technology, it is
important for Fromm Reisen to always have a “young” fleet at its
disposal. Fromm added: “Our 15 Setra touring coaches have an
average age of only two and a half years.”
W hen Gunnar Brustad left Norway with his son Ole Jacob to pick
up his new Setra at the CustomerCenter, he wasn’t yet aware that he
would be taking over a doubly special coach. The two-axle S 516 HD
is not only the first ComfortClass 500 coach destined for Norway,
but also the 500th new Setra coach to be delivered to the
Scandinavian country.Gunnar Brustad, with his company “Brustad
Busstrafikk”, has been a partner of the Setra brand since 1983. He
only found out about the double anniversary when he picked up his
new coach and yes, he was very proud: “We are especially pleased to
be right at the beginning of the new generation with this
anniversary coach. For us it’s very important that we can now offer
our customers yet another exceptional coach following the success
of the 400 series.”
Brustad Busstrafikk takes over the first ComfortClass 500 in
Norway:
A double 500
A perfect fit for the applicationSieke has taken over five S 415
UL buses:
E ntrepreneurial versatility is intrinsic to the way the Sieke
company does business. The long-established operator based in
Diemelstadt, Hessen, offers a broad portfolio of services and is
represented at different locations in bus, truck and heavy
transport. Among other things, they operate a driving school. For
its successful regional bus lines, Sieke was looking for a coach
with high, variable operational capability. It finally opted for
the S 415 UL. Sieke immediately ordered five of these vehicles
which were perfectly equipped for their specific area of
application. Three of the MultiClass buses were fitted with simple,
highly functional equipment and are primarily used in regular
service. An S 415 UL
with comfortable amenities is destined for combined touring and
overland transport. Another vehicle with more upscale equipment
will be deployed by Sieke primarily as a touring coach.The
customer’s latest invest-
ment is part of the systematic modernisation of their fleet.
Previ-ously, Sieke had purchased six ComfortClass 400 coaches as
well as a double-decker S 431 DT from the TopClass 400 series.
The first ComfortClass 500 for North GermanyBlock coach operator
takes over an S 517 HD:
E ven as a child, Alfred Block was fascinated by Setra coaches.
With his new S 517 HD, the passionate coach operator can now
celebrate a very personal premiere with the first new ComfortClass
500 for North Germany. Together with his wife Cornelia and his son
Jan-Erik, the owner of Block Busreisen in Husum, Lower Saxony, took
over the milestone coach at the Setra CustomerCenter.The family
business has sworn by the brand from Ulm since their purchase of an
S 12 from the first Setra series 10. Alfred Block is very proud
that he now has a ComfortClass 500 to call his own: “At the world
premiere last year, I knew this is the coach for us.” And his order
was received by the brand even before he could make a first test
drive. However, it wasn’t just absolute confidence in the proven
coach technology that scored with the Block business couple, but
also the strong ties they have with the Setra sales team. With the
S 517 HD, there was no hesitating for Alfred Block: “With this
coach, Setra is offering what is simply the best of the best. And
the wide-ranging selection of comfort and safety features
completely justifies the price.”
A royal coach tourI n the Swedish court, the year 2013 is
devoted to the 40th anniversary of King Carl Gustav. The so-called
“Eriksgata” is followed with particular interest by the population
and the media. All future Swedish regents join this very
traditional tour through the 21 Swedish provinces in view of
getting to know the country and its people. On the occasion of the
Throne Jubilee, this was repeated again by the royal couple. For
the most part, a variety of socially oriented facilities and
popular events were on the royal visitors’ agenda. A tour of this
scope is both costly and exhausting, so it was spread over several
stages – beginning in March in Kalmar and ending on September 11 in
Jämtland.
Since the Swedish royal couple planned to bring along their
court, the search began for transportation that could offer
sufficient capacity, while being comfortable and safe. They found
it with Setra: in Halland, Skåne and Blekinge, coach owner Stefan
Brämersson from Asige Busstrafik chauffeured the royal entourage in
a yellow Setra S 416 GT-HD. He likes to recall the pleasant
conversations he enjoyed with the royal couple. Queen Silvia
commented very positively on the comfortable coach ride. And the
King also seemed to enjoy it. In fact, as the journey was scheduled
to continue by helicopter, one could tell that the King would have
preferred to travel the entire distance by coach.
Sweden’s royal family on the Throne Jubilee Tour:
Setra Family news | 3736 | Setra Family news
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Setra Familien News | XX
Up until now, if you were looking for a new pre-owned coach or
bus in Europe, you always knew you
could confidently turn to the Mercedes-Benz and Setra pre-owned
vehicle centers for professional
advice and support. We thought that, since they were great on
their own, they would be even better
together – so we have now consolidated the coach and bus
expertise of both brands. And BusStore
marks the introduction of a new coach and bus pre-owned brand
for Europe.
The right pre-owned coach or bus – quickly and safely
BusStore - the coach and bus specialist with new great
quality:
T he used-vehicle business has always been based on trust. This
is especially true when it comes to used coaches and buses.
Quality, safety and reliability are the basic requirements the
vehicles need to fulfil. Every coach represents a significant
investment for an operator – one that goes a long way towards
contributing to their economic success. The search for the “right”
coach or bus is, however, a daunting task for many operators. Many
vendors are far from being true bus experts, and they most often
offer a complete range of commercial vehicles. Some may specialise
in buses, but independent used-vehicle dealers in Europe are only
represented locally and aren’t in the position to offer any real
service to speak of. The Mercedes-Benz and Setra brands recognised
this issue as a business opportunity, and they have reorganised and
restructured their pre-owned vehicle business to
benefit customers all across Europe. The proven manufacturing
expertise of both brands is the cornerstone of the new, dedicated,
pre-owned coach and bus brand – BusStore – which is being
introduced in October at the Busworld exhibition in Kortrijk, Hall
5.
Convenient detailed search on the Internet“With BusStore, we are
creating a coach and bus-specific, Europe-wide, pre-owned network
with a wide range of vehicles and individual consultation,” says
Till Oberwörder, Head of Marketing, Sales and Aftersales EvoBus
GmbH. Right from the start, BusStore has a Europe-wide, pre-owned
vehicle network with an exceptionally varied offering. One that is
not limited to the purchase and sale of coaches and buses from
Mercedes-Benz and Setra, but also to other popular brands and
models.
38 | Setra Premium service
Operators looking for just the right pre-owned coach or bus will
quickly find it at BusStore. On the Internet at www.bus-store.com,
simple and clear menu navigation will guide them through a wide
selection of brands and models. Once there, and with the help of a
search function, operators will find all the coaches and buses
available for sale at all locations in Europe – and a personal
“wish list” will help manage current favourites. Whether a customer
is looking for a touring, overland, city vehicle, or even a
minibus, with BusStore they can be assured of finding brands and
models that have been rigorously tested before they are offered for
sale. Users have the opportunity to make their selection in the
search mask by using various criteria, including “Manufacturer”,
“Application”, “Euro standard” and “Amenities”.
Proven quality and coach- or bus-specific adviceWhen it comes to
quality, with BusStore you won’t have to accept any compromises.
Every pre-owned vehicle is extensively tested by master craftsmen
at an OMNIplus service center. So you can count on tested, proven
quality from bus and coach specialists. Whether for touring or
overland coaches, city buses or minibuses, our strict quality
criteria ensure that your new pre-owned coach or bus runs
beautifully. Consultations are then carried out by proven coach and
bus experts — individually and coach-specific. So it’s easy for an
operator to find just the right vehicle to suit their needs and
requirements. The Internet offering is complemented by local
exhibitions and events. So, for instance, a new international
exhibition will be taking place at the BusStore in Neu-Ulm: the
BusStore Show – IGOM 2014, which is expected to be held 2-3 months
later than usual — in February or March. This event will replace
the International Coach and Bus Fair (IGOM). The exact date of the
BusStore Show will be determined and communicated to coach and bus
customers as soon as possible.
An international website with a clear search function
Never before has the search for a new pre-owned coach or bus
been easier, safer and more convenient – from the office, from home
or on the go by laptop. At www.bus-store.com, with just a few
clicks, you’ll find everything you want and need – in detail and
clearly presented.A search function leads to all available vehicles
at all locations across Europe – and these can be classified by
different characteristics in no time at all. All locations can be
reached by simple click of the mouse – with a contact person
available to help you.So, if you’re on the lookout for a great
pre-owned, find out for your-self about all the coaches and buses
available through BusStore – the new brand for pre-owned coaches
and buses.
Extensive financing and support servicesThe best quality,
professional expertise and the largest selection are only three of
the four pillars upon which the BusStore concept was specially
developed for pre-owned coaches and buses. The new brand’s
extensive range of services will also be key to its appeal. The
pan-European ServiceNetwork, along with the 24 SERVICE from
OMNIplus, are worthy of mention, which is “open” 24 hours around
the clock everywhere in Europe – even if the new pre-owned vehicle
isn’t a Mercedes-Benz or Setra model.The BusStore service offering
begins long before the coach’s first servicing: namely, the moment
you purchase your new pre-owned vehicle, with the help of our
strong partner Mercedes-Benz Financial Services. BusStore customers
benefit from customised financial services and insurance offers at
very attractive conditions.
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40 | Setra Premium service
The BusDoc information system from OMNIplus is a specially
designed online database for service
centers which stores a vehicle’s service information for use in
the case of a breakdown and repair.
Since the beginning of 2013, OMNIplus BusDoc 2.0 has been online
and this new generation is
easier than ever to use.
BusDoc 2.0 – the next generationThe OMNIplus service information
system:
T he requirements and wishes of workshop employees were taken
into consideration during develop-ment of the new information
system. After all, they are the ones who use BusDoc to ensure
ongoing operational availability of operators’ vehicles.
Online inquiry of repair-relevant data“With OMNIplus BusDoc 2.0,
workshop staff can, via a vehicle-specific entry into the Daimler
portal, send a bus or coach to the so-called bus doctor,” explains
Jürgen
Eisele from EvoBus who contributed to the development of the
system. “All vehicle data are stored in BusDoc, and the staff can
quickly and easily initiate a direct query of all relevant data
repairs. In addition, thanks to the optimised navigation of the 2.0
version, they have access to all vehicle-specific information at a
glance. So, for example, if the air conditioner isn’t