The Mercedes-Benz range at FIAA 2026

• Mercedes-Benz eCitaro with NMC4 batteries: greater capacity and longer service life
• Mercedes-Benz eIntouro: e-mobility for interurban services, school transport and short trips
• Mercedes-Benz OC 500 hybrid: mild-hybrid technology for greater efficiency without changing operations
• Mercedes-Benz Tourismo Safety Coach: showcasing safety across the Tourismo range

The Mercedes-Benz presence at FIAA 2026 reflects the breadth of Daimler Buses’ current portfolio, designed to meet a wide variety of passenger transport requirements: from electric urban mobility to interurban, regional and school services, as well as long-distance coach travel and chassis for bodybuilders.

The Mercedes-Benz range presented by Daimler Buses España at FIAA combines electrification, efficiency, safety and operational flexibility. The eCitaro with the new generation of NMC4 batteries represents the continued evolution of the battery-electric city bus; the eIntouro M opens up new possibilities for interurban e-mobility; the Tourismo Safety Coach demonstrates the advanced level achieved in safety and driver assistance; and the OC 500 RF hybrid provides a mild-hybrid solution for operators seeking to improve efficiency without changing their usual operations.

Mercedes-Benz eCitaro with NMC4 batteries: greater capacity and longer service life 

The new generation of NMC4 batteries marks a significant step forward in the evolution of the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro. This fourth generation of lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt batteries, which succeeds NMC3 technology, combines higher energy density with a longer service life and will be introduced in the eCitaro, eCitaro G and eCitaro K from 2026.

Thanks to revised cell chemistry, the NMC4 battery achieves an energy density almost 13 per cent higher than that of the previous generation. The capacity of each battery pack increases from 98 kWh with NMC3 to 111 kWh with NMC4, while occupying the same installation space. In addition, a greater proportion of the stored energy can be used for propulsion, significantly increasing the potential range without recharging.

The design of the NMC4 battery packs matches that of the current NMC3 packs, making the new generation compatible with the existing Mercedes-Benz eCitaro without requiring modifications to the vehicle. Retrofitting vehicles already in operation could even be considered if a complete replacement of all battery packs became necessary.

The longer service life of the NMC4 battery increases the eCitaro’s potential operating mileage and contributes to a lower total cost of ownership. This durability is maintained both with gentle charging at up to 150 kW and with regular fast-charging processes at up to 300 kW.

Safety has also been enhanced with the new generation. The battery management system, which is responsible for thermal monitoring and issuing warnings in the event of overheating, operates both when the vehicle’s operating system is active and when it is in sleep mode. This function is part of OMNIplus ON Battery Monitoring, which incorporates an automatic warning function capable of contacting the operator immediately in the event of a critical incident.

The eCitaro models with NMC4 batteries continue to offer different configuration options. The solo eCitaro and the eCitaro K can be equipped with between four and six battery packs, providing a total capacity of up to 666 kWh. The articulated eCitaro G can accommodate between four and seven packs, with a total capacity of up to 777 kWh. With the maximum configuration, the solo eCitaro and the eCitaro K can achieve a reliable range of up to 600 kilometres, while the eCitaro G can reach up to 450 kilometres, covering the majority of daily city-bus operating requirements.

New ZF AxTrax 2 LF axle

the eCitaro is available now with the ZF AxTrax 2 LF electric rear axle, a solution developed for low-floor buses that helps improve the efficiency of the electric drivetrain. The system integrates permanent-magnet synchronous motors with hairpin winding technology, a two-speed transmission, oil cooling and ZF silicon-carbide inverters. These elements help improve energy efficiency, dynamic response and the system’s thermal management.

In the vehicle on display, propulsion is provided by two three-phase synchronous motors delivering a peak output of 320 kW and a continuous output of 260 kW. Combined with the NMC4 batteries, the new electric axle strengthens the eCitaro’s focus on more efficient and flexible battery-electric urban operation, tailored to the real-world requirements of public transport networks.

Advanced thermal management to reduce energy consumption

In a battery-electric city bus, battery capacity is not the only factor that determines performance and range. The key indicator is energy consumption, which is heavily influenced by climatic conditions and by the cooling and heating of the passenger compartment.

Daimler Buses therefore pays particular attention to the eCitaro’s thermal management. The high-voltage batteries are maintained at an optimum temperature, supporting charging capability, performance and service life. At the same time, the passenger compartment is heated efficiently by means of a heat pump and, where necessary during significant temperature fluctuations, with support from the braking resistor connected to the water circuit.

To achieve maximum efficiency, the eCitaro features an advanced climate-control system with sophisticated thermal management and R744 refrigerant. The EvoThermatic Basic system is also optionally available for applications in moderate temperatures, while the EvoThermatic High Comfort system can be fitted for operation in warmer countries. All climate-control systems available for the eCitaro incorporate a high-efficiency heat pump.

Another important advantage is the ability to precondition the vehicle interior to the desired temperature while the batteries are charging at the depot. This means that the energy required to heat or cool the passenger compartment is not drawn from the battery at the start of service, helping to increase the vehicle’s range.

A familiar driver’s workplace

The eCitaro provides a highly familiar environment for drivers who already operate a combustion-engine Citaro. The layout of the driver’s workplace and the control logic are identical, making it easier for drivers to switch between vehicles and reducing the need for familiarisation.

The instrument cluster, however, reflects the specific characteristics of the electric drive. A power availability indicator replaces the rev counter and displays the current power demand or level of energy recuperation. The driver also receives information on the batteries’ state of charge and can view the range, available power and charging indicator on the central display.

The eCitaro also helps the driver adopt a more efficient driving style through an acceleration control system. When pulling away from a bus stop or traffic lights, whether the vehicle is empty or fully laden, acceleration is limited to a comfortable level. This results in a smoother journey for passengers while also helping to reduce energy consumption.

An integrated safety concept

In Mercedes-Benz buses, safety is not based on isolated measures, but on an integrated concept. In the eCitaro, this approach begins at the driver’s workplace. The seat, visibility, ergonomics and climate control are designed to create a comfortable and safe working environment.

Safety also extends to the high-voltage technology. The battery modules are installed with impact protection, while the charging cables are particularly well protected. The batteries are also tested and certified in accordance with the regulations applicable to the transport of dangerous goods. Tests conducted at cell, cellblock, battery-pack and vehicle battery-group level help ensure a high degree of system safety.

In terms of active safety, the eCitaro is equipped as standard with a wide range of assistance systems, featuring functions that, in some cases, go beyond the requirements of the European Union’s General Safety Regulation.

These include the radar-based Sideguard Assist 2, which forms part of the eCitaro’s standard equipment. The system responds and issues more precise warnings when there is a risk of collision with pedestrians or cyclists and monitors the driver’s side of the vehicle. At speeds above approximately 40 km/h, it also performs the function of a lane-change assistant. Up to the vehicle’s maximum permitted speed, it informs the driver of objects on both sides of the bus and issues a visual and haptic warning in critical lane-change situations.

Frontguard Assist detects and warns of obstacles or people directly ahead of the vehicle. Together with the standard reversing camera or the optional 360° camera system — 270° for articulated buses — it provides the driver with a comprehensive information and warning system covering the area around the vehicle.

The intelligent speed assistance system Traffic Sign Assist warns the driver when the permitted speed is exceeded. The eCitaro’s standard equipment also includes the Tyre Pressure Monitoring system, Attention Assist and an interface for alcohol interlocks at the driver’s workplace.

Mercedes-Benz eIntouro: e-mobility for interurban routes, commuter services and short trips

With the Mercedes-Benz eIntouro, Daimler Buses is presenting its first battery-electric interurban bus. This high-floor bus is based on the familiar Intouro. Building on the extensively proven architecture of the diesel-powered model, Daimler Buses has now incorporated a battery-electric drivetrain.

The result is a vehicle designed to open up new possibilities for electrifying traditional interurban routes, school transport, shuttle and employee transport services, excursions and short trips. The eIntouro is available in two lengths: the 12.18-metre eIntouro and the 13.09-metre eIntouro M. Depending on the configuration, seating variants range from 50 to a maximum of 63 seats. 

LFP battery technology

The new Mercedes-Benz eIntouro can be equipped with one or two battery packs, each with a capacity of 207 kWh. The maximum total capacity is 414 kWh. The first battery pack is always located behind the front axle to ensure optimum weight distribution, while the optional second pack is installed at the rear, in the former engine compartment.

The batteries use lithium iron phosphate cell technology, or LFP, and operate at 800 volts. This cell chemistry performs particularly well in terms of calendar ageing, making a service life of up to 15 years possible in certain applications. In addition, more than 95 per cent of the installed capacity can be used with LFP technology, a higher proportion than with other cell technologies. This enables a greater range from the same installed battery capacity.

With two battery packs, the eIntouro can travel up to 500 kilometres without recharging, depending on driving style, topography and weather conditions. Charging is carried out via CCS Type 2 connectors, with a charging power of up to 400 kW when the vehicle is equipped with two battery packs and up to 225 kW with one battery pack.

The eIntouro also offers flexibility in the positioning of the charging sockets. Customers can choose from four locations: front, rear, right or left behind the front axle. A maximum of two charging sockets can be fitted to each vehicle.

Central electric drive with 320 kW

Daimler Buses uses tried-and-tested components for the drivetrain. The electric motor is the ZF CeTrax 2 dual CX332 central drive, delivering a continuous output of 320 kW and maximum output torque of 24,700 Nm. The drive force is transmitted to the Mercedes-Benz RO 440 drive axle via a fully automatic three-speed transmission integrated into the drive unit.

This configuration enables a high proportion of shared parts with the conventional Intouro, contributing to vehicle availability and cost-effective operation.

New electronics architecture enables over-the-air updates

With the eIntouro, Daimler Buses is the first bus manufacturer in Europe to introduce a vehicle that can receive over-the-air updates. The software is transmitted to the bus via the mobile network and managed through the OMNIplus ON portal, without the need for a workshop visit.

When an update is available, the fleet manager receives a notification and can select the installation time in the portal. Installation only begins when the vehicle is stationary, the parking brake is applied and the drive-ready state is switched off. No internet connection is required during the installation process. This technology keeps the software in the vehicle’s control units up to date without taking the bus to the workshop, reducing service visits and improving vehicle availability. In addition to security updates, it enables general software enhancements and configuration changes to be installed. 

Exterior and interior: typical Intouro

The eIntouro retains an appearance very similar to that of the familiar Intouro models. It features a functional body design, with a steeply raked windscreen and the characteristic Mercedes-Benz front end, together with straight, virtually seamless side walls that make the vehicle easy to clean and apply company lettering or advertising to.

The interior follows a modular concept designed to accommodate different operating profiles. A range of seating and luggage-rack options, together with a wide front entrance with a single-leaf door and a central entrance available with either a single- or double-width door, allows the vehicle to be configured from cost-focused interurban versions to more comfortable options for excursions and short trips.

The 13-metre version can be equipped with a toilet. A lift on the right-hand side is also optionally available for both vehicle lengths.

Coach-level cockpit

As is typical in Mercedes-Benz buses, the eIntouro’s driver’s workplace has a clear driver-oriented design. The cockpit combines ergonomics with a high-quality look and feel, achieving a standard comparable to that of a premium coach.

The direction of travel is selected using the D-N-R selector on the steering-column stalk. The cockpit, adapted to the electric drive, follows the familiar operating logic of the eCitaro. A power availability display replaces the rev counter and shows the current power demand or level of energy recuperation. The driver also receives information on the batteries’ state of charge and can view the range, available power and charging indicator on the central display.

Latest-generation assistance and safety systems

The new eIntouro features a comprehensive range of assistance and safety systems. The optional Active Brake Assist 6 emergency braking system can respond to pedestrians and cyclists crossing the vehicle’s path, approaching it or travelling in its lane, initiating automatic full braking to a standstill.

Sideguard Assist 2 monitors both the door side and the driver’s side. At speeds above 40 km/h, it also performs the function of a lane-change assistant and informs the driver of objects on both sides of the vehicle up to the maximum permitted speed.

Frontguard Assist monitors the area directly in front of the vehicle at speeds of up to 15 km/h and can warn of people or obstacles when the vehicle is pulling away. Standard equipment also includes Traffic Sign Assist, the Tyre Pressure Monitoring system, Attention Assist, an interface for alcohol testers at the driver’s workplace and a reversing camera. An optional 360° camera system is available as an alternative to the reversing camera. MirrorCam can also be specified in place of conventional exterior mirrors.

Mercedes-Benz OC 500 hybrid: mild-hybrid technology for greater efficiency without changing operations

With the Mercedes-Benz OC 500 hybrid, Daimler Buses is expanding its chassis portfolio with a solution for operators seeking to make pragmatic progress in efficiency and sustainability. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system has been developed to improve operational efficiency and reduce fuel consumption and emissions in interurban, regional and school transport services.

Unlike other alternative drive solutions, the OC 500 hybrid does not require operators to change their operating model. It requires no charging infrastructure, specialist tools or additional training for drivers or workshop personnel. The system operates automatically, providing a driving experience equivalent to that of a conventional vehicle.

The 48-volt mild-hybrid system assists the combustion engine during phases of higher energy demand, such as start-up, idling and initial acceleration. It also recovers energy during braking, which is subsequently used to support the combustion engine.

The chassis qualifies for the ECO environmental badge issued by Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT), in accordance with the regulations in force on the date of publication. This is an increasingly relevant factor when applying for subsidies, public funding programmes and regulatory benefits, as well as when seeking a higher rating in regular and school transport tenders.

Two configurations for different applications

The OC 500 hybrid range is available in two versions, designed for different service profiles. The OC 500 LE 1930 hybrid, featuring a Low Entry concept, is particularly suitable for interurban routes and concessions with high passenger turnover, where accessibility and configuration flexibility are essential.

The raised-floor OC 500 RF 1936 hybrid is designed for interurban and regional services with a high proportion of seated passengers, prioritising comfort and efficiency on medium-distance routes.

Both versions can be adapted to different applications and services and can be type-approved as Class I, II or III, depending on the model, the vehicle’s final configuration and its intended application. At FIAA 2026, Daimler Buses España is presenting the Mercedes-Benz OC 500 RF 1936 hybrid, a configuration particularly representative of interurban and regional services.

Safety and assistance systems

The entire Mercedes-Benz OC 500 range offers a high level of safety in accordance with the General Safety Regulation, including advanced driver assistance systems also used in complete coaches. The technical specification of the vehicle prepared for FIAA includes systems such as Active Brake Assist 6, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Sideguard Assist 2, Frontguard Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Attention Assist and Tyre Pressure Monitoring.

Efficiency where it matters most

With the new Mercedes-Benz OC 500 hybrid, Daimler Buses offers operators a balanced, business-focused solution: lower fuel consumption, reduced emissions, high reliability and maximum operational flexibility, in a chassis designed to address the current challenges facing road passenger transport.

Production in Spain: industrial commitment and customer proximity

The entire Mercedes-Benz OC 500 chassis range is manufactured at the Daimler Buses production facility in Sámano, Castro Urdiales. The plant is dedicated exclusively to chassis production and is recognised as the European centre of competence in this field within Daimler Buses.

Bus and coach chassis for different markets are developed and manufactured in Sámano in accordance with the highest standards of quality, industrial efficiency and reliability. The facility’s specialisation enables a high degree of adaptability to different applications and operator requirements.

Through this Spanish production facility, Daimler Buses reinforces its long-term industrial commitment to the Spanish market, creating value through skilled employment, technical expertise and proximity to customers and bodybuilders. This approach translates into greater agility, product quality and responsiveness for the passenger transport sector.

Mercedes-Benz Tourismo Safety Coach: the safety showcase for the Tourismo range

The Mercedes-Benz Tourismo Safety Coach represents the latest evolution of a long-standing Daimler Buses tradition: showcasing the current state of safety technology in a coach equipped with the most advanced assistance systems available for this type of vehicle.

Safety is one of the central elements in the development of Mercedes-Benz buses and coaches. In the Tourismo Safety Coach, this philosophy is embodied in a configuration specifically designed to support accident prevention, assist the driver and protect passengers and other road users.

The Tourismo is also one of the benchmark coaches in the European market. Its success is based on a combination of efficiency, safety, comfort and versatility, making it a reliable solution for charter, tourism, shuttle and long-distance scheduled services. The range has now passed the milestone of 40,000 units delivered, consolidating its position as one of Europe’s most successful coaches.

Active safety and driver assistance

The Tourismo Safety Coach brings together technologies designed to support the driver in complex situations and reduce the risk of accidents. Its systems include Active Brake Assist 6, Sideguard Assist 2, Frontguard Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Attention Assist 2, Tyre Pressure Monitoring, Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control ART with stop-and-go function, MirrorCam and a 360° camera system.

These systems work together to improve awareness of the vehicle’s surroundings, warn of potential hazards and assist the driver in critical situations. Sideguard Assist 2 and Frontguard Assist extend monitoring along the sides and immediately in front of the vehicle; Traffic Sign Assist helps the driver comply with speed limits; Attention Assist 2 helps detect signs of fatigue or distraction; and MirrorCam improves visibility by replacing conventional exterior mirrors with cameras and monitors inside the vehicles.

The 360° camera system completes this comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making manoeuvring easier and providing the driver with additional information at low speeds or in tight spaces.

A range focused on efficiency and comfort

The Tourismo Safety Coach is not only a technological showcase for safety. It also demonstrates the evolution of a model range that Daimler Buses has continuously developed to meet the needs of operators, drivers and passengers.

The Tourismo combines an efficiency-focused design with a high level of comfort. Its aerodynamic design, optimised drivetrain and systems such as Predictive Powertrain Control help reduce fuel consumption in operation. At the same time, the driver’s workplace, information and entertainment systems, and interior equipment are designed to provide a comfortable experience on tourism and long-distance services.

The vehicle prepared for FIAA 2026 is equipped with a 335 kW OM 470 Euro VI E engine, an MB GO 250-8 PowerShift transmission, a Comfort Plus driver’s cockpit, Predictive Powertrain Control, EvoCool Komfort air conditioning, 21.5-inch high-definition LCD monitors, a toilet and an on-board galley. Its configuration includes 44 Travel Star Eco 2 passenger seats with Luxline upholstery.

Available for test drives at FIAA 2026

At FIAA 2026, the Mercedes-Benz Tourismo Safety Coach will also play a prominent role as a test vehicle. Operators and specialist media will therefore be able to experience the vehicle’s handling first-hand and directly explore some of the on-board technologies that define the current evolution of the Tourismo range.

Its presence in the test-drive area reinforces the Daimler Buses approach to safety: it is not simply a matter of incorporating advanced systems, but of integrating them into a vehicle designed to make the driver’s work easier, increase passenger protection and contribute to safer and more efficient driving.