Daimler Buses Delivers 111 Mercedes-Benz and Setra Buses to Busitalia
Daimler Buses is set to commence the delivery of 111 state-of-the-art buses to Busitalia beginning in June 2025. This delivery marks a significant milestone in public transportation in Italy, reinforcing the ongoing collaboration between Daimler Buses and Busitalia, a subsidiary of Trenitalia, which operates under the umbrella of the Italian state railway company Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane S.p.A.
The procurement was finalized through a competitive tender and is organized into three categories: 80 units of the Mercedes-Benz Tourismo, 20 units of the Mercedes-Benz Tourismo M/3, and 11 Setra S 531 DT double-decker coaches. This substantial delivery will be executed by Daimler Buses Italia, the group’s local sales division, and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Busitalia has allocated an investment of €43 million for this acquisition.
Stefano Giordani, President and Managing Director of Daimler Buses Italia, emphasized the significance of the order: “Today we celebrate a partnership that exemplifies excellence in our industry, both in scale and strategic value. The delivery of 111 buses under a single order, all under Omniplus full-service support, is a record-breaking achievement for Daimler Buses Italia. With this transaction, our total deliveries to Busitalia have reached 963 units, encompassing 352 city buses, 484 intercity buses, and 127 coaches for tourist transport.”
The newly ordered fleet is characterized by advanced technology and high standards of comfort, safety, accessibility, and innovation. These vehicles are equipped with Euro VI-compliant diesel engines, known for their environmental performance and fuel efficiency. Smooth operation is further enhanced through the use of automatic transmissions. The Mercedes-Benz Tourismo variants feature the OM 470 engine, delivering 315 kW (428 hp), and are compatible with synthetic diesel (HVO), reinforcing Busitalia’s commitment to sustainable transport.
Support and maintenance for the fleet are guaranteed by a ten-year Omniplus service contract, coupled with the comprehensive Digital Services Package for each of the 111 vehicles. This agreement ensures continuous and reliable operations, contributing to optimal vehicle availability and streamlined fleet management.
Cutting-Edge Safety Systems
Each bus in the order is outfitted with a suite of modern safety and assistance technologies aimed at enhancing passenger and driver safety. Key features include LED headlights, double-glazed tinted windows, and a rear-entry surveillance camera. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) onboard comprise Active Brake Assist 6 with multi-lane monitoring, Preventive Brake Assist 2 with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Sideguard Assist 2 for turning support, Attention Assist to monitor driver alertness, an alcohol interlock system, and the MirrorCam system replacing traditional side mirrors with high-definition cameras.
Select buses are additionally equipped with 360-degree cameras and digital rear-view mirrors for enhanced visibility and safety, especially in urban environments. These tools collectively bolster protection for vulnerable road users while enhancing the overall driving experience.
Inside the cabin, rapid air circulation is provided by advanced air conditioning systems featuring high-performance particulate filters with antiviral coatings, contributing to a safer and healthier environment for all occupants.
Premium Passenger Comfort
Passenger experience is a focal point in both the Mercedes-Benz Tourismo and Setra S 531 DT models. The Tourismo models are equipped with TravelStarEco seating, offering features such as swiveling armrests, lateral seat adjustment, reclining backrests, footrests, and three-point seat belts. Each bus is also fitted with powerful air conditioning systems and expansive panoramic windows for enhanced visual comfort.
The 12.3-meter-long two-axle Tourismo models provide 55 seats, while the 13.12-meter-long three-axle Tourismo M/3 coaches offer either 53 or 55 seats, depending on their use for short or long-distance travel. These seats come with Luxline upholstery for superior comfort. Accessibility is ensured through wheelchair lifts, making boarding easier for passengers with reduced mobility and the elderly.
The Setra S 531 DT double-decker coaches, each approximately 14 meters in length, are designed to maximize passenger capacity and luxury. Featuring Voyage Plus seats, these buses offer longitudinal and lateral seat adjustment, adjustable backrest angles, and footrests. The six units designated for local transport can accommodate up to 81 passengers, while the five coaches earmarked for long-distance service provide seating for 70. Each double-decker is also equipped with a manual folding ramp for unimpeded access. Power is supplied by the OM 471 engine, producing 375 kW (510 hp).
Standard across all 111 buses are USB and 220V power outlets, individual air vents and reading lights at each double seat, and onboard Wi-Fi routers enabling high-speed internet access. Dedicated spaces for passengers with disabilities are also incorporated. Long-distance models further include onboard restrooms and driver sleeping compartments for extended operations. A refrigerator is included in all models to store cold beverages.
Digital Transformation with the Digital Services Package
To streamline fleet operations and maximize efficiency, Daimler Buses is providing its Digital Services Package free of charge for three years with the purchase of each new diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz or Setra bus. This initiative aims to facilitate the adoption of digital tools among transport operators, enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and comprehensive data analysis.
For battery-electric models such as the eCitaro and eCitaro fuel cell buses, and soon the eIntouro, this complimentary access is extended to six years. Following the initial term, operators can continue to access the digital services at a reduced cost.
Busitalia, already a user of Daimler Buses’ digital solutions, now benefits from enhanced capabilities through the integration of the Digital Services Package into their latest fleet order. This initiative underscores Busitalia’s forward-looking strategy and commitment to intelligent and sustainable mobility solutions.
In summary, this landmark delivery of 111 advanced Daimler Buses not only marks a record-breaking achievement for Daimler Buses Italia but also signifies a major step forward in safe, comfortable, and technologically enhanced transportation for Busitalia’s passengers across Italy.
