New generation of Setra ComfortClass coach set for autumn launch
GERMANY Setra’s new two-axle S 515 HD, the two- and three-axle S 516 HD and the three-axle S 517 HD will all be launched this autumn.
The company says it is distinguished by the systematic refinements in design which bridges the gap between traditional and modern values. Lothar Holder, Setra Brand Spokesman at EvoBus GmbH, explained: “With the new ComfortClass 500, we want to do more than just prepare our customers for the challenges of the next few years. As a technology leader, we are setting standards for design, aerodynamics and efficiency with this new generation of coach.”
A typical feature of the ComfortClass 500 is the curved side line, rising and falling gradually, with the new decorative element at the B-pillar. In the front section, it gives a friendlier yet more distinctive face.
Two striking features are the long roof drain at the front and a more rounded windscreen, which runs down as far as the front logo panel with the three-dimensional Setra lettering. The front, along with the redesigned outside mirrors, was optimised in the course of a painstaking development process which included countless hours of testing in the wind tunnel. In conjunction with the new aerodynamic rear section, and also additional individual measures, the CC500 achieves a drag coefficient of 0.33, a figure normally considered unattainable in this segment. Also new are the modular-design headlight and indicator segments, featuring distinctive trim elements. These underline the vehicle’s features of high quality, safety and reliability and gently introduce the encircling lines, which sweep upwards into the side areas.
The ComfortClass 500 is compliant with Euro 6, which is due to come into force in 2014 for new vehicles. The overall concept also incorporates numerous safety regulations and legal provisions planned for the next few years. These include additional driver assistance systems which apply from 2015, as well as Regulation ECE-R 66/01, which introduces a stricter rollover standard for tour buses and comes into force two years later. In keeping with the Setra brand tradition, an intelligent lightweight construction concept was developed to meet the latter requirement, combining greater rigidity with less weight.
The new ComfortClass 500 will be powered by engines from the new BlueEfficiency Power generation from Mercedes-Benz. The new in-line, six-cylinder OM 470, with a displacement of 10.7 litres, has been optimised for fuel efficiency and performance, and generates 315 kW (428 hp) at 1,800 rpm. It achieves a maximum torque of 2,100 Nm at as little as 1,100 rpm. The aerodynamic design of the ComfortClass 500 and a raft of weight-reduction measures also mean Setra will be presenting a tour bus which, in addition to a host of exclusive equipment variants, has the added attraction of operating with reduced fuel consumption.
