SWU Verkehr Accelerates Electromobility Drive with Major Order for 37 Mercedes-Benz eCitaro Electric Buses
In a significant move towards sustainable urban mobility, SWU Verkehr GmbH, the public transport subsidiary of Stadtwerke Ulm/Neu-Ulm GmbH (SWU), has signed a contract with Daimler Buses for the delivery of 37 fully electric Mercedes-Benz eCitaro and eCitaro G buses. The contract, formalized on July 18, 2025, at Ulm Town Hall Square, marks a decisive step in SWU’s mission to decarbonize its public transport fleet and make Ulm and Neu-Ulm greener and more livable cities.
The agreement includes an option for an additional nine buses, potentially expanding the total to 46 electric vehicles. SWU’s planned investment for the entire fleet is valued at €34.6 million, demonstrating the city’s serious commitment to sustainable transport innovation.
A Strategic Partnership for a Cleaner Future
The contract signing was attended by Klaus Eder, Managing Director of Stadtwerke Ulm/Neu-Ulm, Ralf Gummersbach, Managing Director of SWU Verkehr, and Till Oberwörder, CEO of Daimler Buses. The partnership follows a competitive Europe-wide tender process, reflecting SWU’s dedication to selecting the most suitable and future-ready solution for its growing public transportation needs.
Already ahead of the curve, SWU has integrated 14 eCitaro G articulated electric buses into its fleet between 2024 and 2025. These vehicles have played a critical role in reducing CO₂ emissions and improving air quality in the urban environment. The newly ordered 37 buses will be delivered in stages, with full deployment expected by the end of 2026. If the additional nine buses are exercised, they are slated to enter service starting in 2027.
A Commitment to Local Innovation and Economic Strength
“We are pleased to have Daimler Buses as a trusted and proven partner in this project,” said Ralf Gummersbach, noting that the decision to work with a German manufacturer based directly in Neu-Ulm ensures that a substantial portion of the value creation remains within the country. “This strengthens our domestic economy and provides added benefits in terms of service and maintenance,” he emphasized.
Till Oberwörder, CEO of Daimler Buses, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “Electromobility in public transport is a crucial component for creating livable cities. We are proud to support SWU in this forward-thinking initiative with our expertise, advanced technology, and dedicated local team.”
Advanced Technology for Maximum Efficiency
The 37 new electric buses will consist of 15 eCitaro solo buses (12.14 meters, three doors) and 22 eCitaro G articulated buses (18.3 meters, four doors). The solo buses can accommodate up to 65 passengers, while the articulated models offer room for up to 143 passengers. Designed with accessibility in mind, the buses include enlarged multipurpose areas for wheelchairs, prams, and mobility aids.
A major technological highlight of the fleet is the integration of the fourth-generation NMC-4 lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt batteries, each providing 111 kWh of energy per pack. These batteries not only offer greater energy density and extended range, but also ensure a long operational lifespan, even under frequent fast-charging conditions. With a charging capacity of up to 300 kW, the buses can efficiently meet the demands of high-usage routes.
Charging flexibility is another major feature: buses can be charged either at the depot using side-mounted connectors or via pantograph-based opportunity charging at designated stops. A roof-mounted camera system ensures the driver can precisely align the bus for overhead charging, enabling seamless operations without requiring backup vehicles.
Safety and Connectivity: Hallmarks of the eCitaro Fleet
Passenger and road user safety is a key priority in the new fleet. The buses are equipped with cutting-edge assistance systems including:
- Sideguard Assist 2: Helps detect pedestrians or cyclists on the side of the vehicle.
- Frontguard Assist: Alerts the driver to obstacles or people directly in front of the bus.
- Preventive Brake Assist 2: An active emergency braking system to avoid collisions.
- Traffic Sign Assist: Monitors and alerts the driver to speed limit violations based on GPS and camera data.
These intelligent safety systems help prevent accidents and improve situational awareness for drivers navigating busy urban roads.
Digitally Optimized Operations with Omniplus Services
The new fleet will also feature Omniplus Digital Services, contracted for a 12-year period. One of the standout features is Omniplus On Uptime pro, which continuously monitors vehicle systems and provides real-time diagnostics to both the workshop and fleet management teams. This predictive maintenance system helps optimize total cost of ownership (TCO) and minimize unexpected breakdowns.
Additionally, Battery Monitoring plays a vital role in preserving battery health and extending service life. This tool tracks performance metrics and offers actionable recommendations, ensuring compliance with high-voltage battery warranty conditions.
SWU is also integrating Omniplus On data packages with its broader fleet management systems to create streamlined workflows and improved operational efficiency. This digital transformation ensures that SWU is not only investing in hardware but also in the long-term smart management of its transit infrastructure.
Through this substantial investment and partnership with Daimler Buses, SWU Verkehr GmbH is setting a benchmark in Germany for the transition to electric public transport. The arrival of 37 state-of-the-art eCitaro buses — with potential for nine more — underscores a bold and practical approach to climate protection, economic development, and urban livability.
