Daimler Buses unveiled its latest innovation, the Mercedes-Benz eIntouro, during its world premiere at Busworld Europe 2025 in Brussels. This marks a major milestone for the manufacturer as it introduces its first battery-electric intercity bus, combining long-range capability, advanced safety systems, and sustainable performance. With its cutting-edge battery technology and efficient design, the eIntouro is poised to redefine electric mobility in the intercity and regional transport sectors.
A New Era of Electric Intercity Mobility
The eIntouro represents Daimler Buses’ commitment to expanding e-mobility beyond city limits. Equipped with up to two battery packs providing a total capacity of 414 kWh, the vehicle can achieve a range of up to 500 kilometres on a single charge—depending on factors like driving style, terrain, and weather. This range makes it suitable not only for school, intercity, and commuter routes, but also for short excursions and tours, allowing operators to integrate e-mobility into diverse service applications economically and reliably.
The eIntouro is expected to become commercially available for orders starting in Spring 2025, with first customer deliveries planned for the second half of 2026. Until October 9, 2025, the eIntouro is showcased at the Daimler Buses stand in Hall 5 of Busworld Europe.
Designed for Comfort, Efficiency, and Sustainability
Built upon the proven high-floor platform of the diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz Intouro, the eIntouro maintains familiar comfort and reliability while replacing the combustion system with a fully electric drivetrain. The bus will be available in two lengths—the standard 12.18-meter eIntouro and the extended 13.09-meter eIntouro M, accommodating between 50 and 63 passengers, depending on configuration.
The power system uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology, known for its long service life of up to 15 years and high energy utilization—over 95% of installed capacity. This battery chemistry also prioritizes safety and durability, with reduced reliance on critical raw materials. The eIntouro shares many components with Daimler’s heavy-duty eActros 600 electric truck, ensuring proven technology and simplified maintenance across platforms.
Fast Charging and Robust Performance
Operators can charge the eIntouro using CCS Type 2 connectors. With two battery packs, charging power reaches up to 400 kW, while a single pack supports 225 kW. This enables flexible and efficient operations across daily routes. The electric central drive delivers 320 kW continuous power and 400 kW peak output, ensuring smooth acceleration and consistent power even on challenging routes.
Daimler Buses also plans to expand its own public charging network, installing charging points at key tourist and regional hubs across Europe. This infrastructure initiative will enable electric buses like the eIntouro to operate even in remote or travel-intensive regions, further supporting the transition toward zero-emission mobility.
Proven in Extreme Conditions
Before its public debut, the eIntouro underwent extensive real-world testing. According to Till Oberwörder, CEO of Daimler Buses, “Since the introduction of the eCitaro in 2018, we have consistently pursued our e-roadmap. The eIntouro represents the next milestone in that journey. It has successfully passed rigorous testing in Arctic conditions near the Circle and in extreme summer heat exceeding 45°C in Spain.”
These trials ensured that the vehicle meets Daimler’s high standards for reliability and passenger comfort in diverse environments.
Ready for the Future: Over-the-Air Updates
A notable technological leap is the eIntouro’s new electronics architecture, which allows for “over-the-air” software updates—a first for European bus manufacturers. Through the Omniplus On portal, updates can be delivered directly via the mobile network, reducing workshop downtime. Beyond routine maintenance, this system allows remote installation of performance improvements, system enhancements, and new features—keeping the bus fleet up to date efficiently and securely.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
Safety remains at the heart of Daimler Buses’ design philosophy. The eIntouro incorporates a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance technologies:
- Active Brake Assist 6 (ABA 6): Detects and automatically brakes for pedestrians and cyclists crossing or approaching the vehicle.
- Sideguard Assist 2: Monitors both passenger and driver sides, acting as a lane change assistant at speeds over 40 km/h.
- Frontguard Assist: Alerts drivers to obstacles or pedestrians in front of the vehicle at low speeds.
- Traffic Sign Assist: Reads and displays speed limits.
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPM) and Attention Assist (AtAs): Enhance operational safety and driver alertness.
- Alcohol interlock interface and reversing camera systems are standard, with options for a 360° camera system and MirrorCam replacing traditional mirrors.
Together, these systems make the eIntouro one of the safest electric intercity buses on the market.
Daimler Buses’ Long-Term Vision
The unveiling of the eIntouro aligns with Daimler Buses’ broader electrification strategy. The company aims to have battery-electric touring coaches in its lineup by the end of the decade, followed by fuel cell-powered models as infrastructure matures. This approach ensures that Daimler can offer sustainable transport solutions across all use cases—urban, intercity, and long-distance.
Notably, since 2023, Daimler’s Mercedes-Benz eCitaro city bus has already been available with a hydrogen-based fuel cell range extender, demonstrating the company’s multi-path strategy toward zero-emission transport.
Firsthand Experience for Busworld Visitors
At Busworld Europe, attendees can explore the 12.18-meter eIntouro in its intercity configuration at Daimler’s stand. In addition, a 13.09-meter eIntouro M model, configured as a touring coach, is available for test drives, allowing visitors to experience the bus’s smooth acceleration, quiet operation, and comfort firsthand.
