Setra TopClass S 531 DT: The premium-class double-decker bus

• Efficiency: Outstanding aerodynamics
• Variability: The Setra DT is a bus for all situations
• Comfort: Light interior, comfortable stairs, innovative washroom
• Safety: Latest assistance systems as standard
• Design: Characteristic appearance from front to rear

Maximum efficiency and variability, maximum comfort, and maximum safety: As a solo vehicle in the TopClass, the Setra S 531 DT double‑decker bus sets standards in its class. The impressive touring coach achieves consumption records in its segment with best aerodynamic values. Thanks to its flexible lower deck it caters for all uses for touring and regular‑service transport. The interior impresses with comfort. The designers have wrapped all this into a fascinating trailblazing design.

Efficiency: Outstanding aerodynamics 

The Setra double‑decker bus is trimmed from front to rear for the best possible aerodynamics. To put it literally: The airstream flows around strongly curved windshields and large edge radii at the front, while being deflected by indents and spoiler lips at the rear. The developers have paid attention to the smallest details: The windshield wiper on the upper deck stands vertically in the rest position – something borrowed from motorsport. The result is a drag coefficient of c_w = 0.35, a record for this segment. The aerodynamics form the basis for record‑low fuel consumption. Automatic lowering of the body at high speeds is also a feature of the series.

On request, the MirrorCam replaces the conventional outside mirrors. The images from the cameras are transmitted to 15-inch monitors mounted on the inside of the A‑pillars on the left and right. Displayed lines indicate the end of the vehicle and help the driver to estimate the speed of approaching vehicles and when changing lane at the end of an overtaking maneuver. An additional camera and a second monitor ensure a view of the front right corner of the vehicle. The advantages of the MirrorCam include the extended field of vision for the driver, the significantly better visibility in the dark thanks to residual light enhancement, reduced soiling, less maneuvering damage, and a further reduction in fuel consumption thanks to a smaller frontal area.

Variability: The Setra S 531 DT is a bus for all situations

Holiday trips, long-distance routes, elegant bistro buses, inter‑city routes – the new Setra covers all conceivable applications for buses of its format. In addition to the brand-typical individual equipment and seating, the variable lower deck forms the fundamental basis. Thanks to a completely new design, it is optionally possible to delete the seat platform on the right‑hand side of the lower deck in the direction of travel. This results in new options, such as  wheelchair spaces, bistro coach equipment, a removable platform with space for a stroller on inter‑city routes, or a platform featuring traditional seating for tourist travel. The diversity is also evident in the cockpit: Buyers can choose between the elegant and functional cockpit from the Setra ComfortClass and the luxurious cockpit from the TopClass.

Comfort: Light interior, comfortable stairs, innovative washroom

Thanks to plenty of light and a modern design, the bright interior of the Setra conveys a sense of generous space. The staircases as a connection from the lower deck to the upper deck are particularly eye‑catching. Glazed from the outside, they are clad on the inside with translucent acrylic plastic. Uniform two‑colored steps with individual lighting, platforms and continuous handrails provide safety when boarding and disembarking the bus. The washroom also deserves attention. Its furnishings are arranged diagonally, which means maximum space. The high‑gloss white furniture at the top and the friendly LED lighting evoke a modern bathroom unit.

Safety: Latest assistance systems as standard

The Setra S 531 DT is equipped with the latest safety and assistance systems as standard, such as Active Brake Assist 6 (ABA 6), which detects moving or stationary pedestrians and cyclists in front of the vehicle and can automatically carry out emergency braking, or Sideguard Assist 2 with integrated Lane Change Assist. Frontguard Assist for the area directly in front of the vehicle, Traffic Sign Assist, which warns when the permissible speed is exceeded, adaptive cruise control (ART), Lane Assist (SPA), the tire pressure monitoring system (TPM) and Attention Assist (AtAs) as well as an interface for the use of alcohol testers for the driver’s workplace are also standard on board.

Design: Characteristic appearance from front to rear

A Setra is a bus like no other – as demonstrated by the spectacular look of the double-decker bus. The new brand face is particularly eye-catching. The focal point is the high‑gloss black front panel framed by chrome inserts. The self-assured, three-dimensional brand lettering is also chrome‑plated. The housing of the new headlamps is in black chrome. The double‑decker bus features a three-dimensional character element with integrated Setra brand lettering on the side. The large glazing is characterized by a counter-sweep around the rear stairs. It is framed in aluminum and gives the bus dynamism. The rear end is framed by side fins with a spoiler lip. Below the rear window, the chrome-plated logo trim with the brand lettering from the TopClass catches the eye – together with the new tail lights, this is the perfect finishing touch to an eye-catching bus.