Setra MultiClass LE: The benchmark for intercity buses – premiere for the S 518 LE and pioneering new assistance systems

• Range includes a new, three-axle vehicle: the MultiClass quartet
• Unique design: iconic look of the MultiClass LE
• Variety of applications: passenger compartment, cockpit, assistance systems
• Predictive Powertrain Control also in intercity operation
• New: Sideguard Assist 2, Frontguard Assist, Preventive Brake Assist 2
• New: optional MirrorCam instead of outside mirrors
• Pronounced cost-effectiveness: from drive to digitalisation with unique services

The completely newly developed Setra MultiClass LE sets new standards among low-entry intercity buses with a unique and exciting design, exceptional versatility and flexibility, maximum efficiency, highest safety standards, and practical solutions down to the most minute detail. It will be celebrating its premiere for the general public at Busworld Europe 2023. The three-axle Setra S 518 LE will be on show for the first time within the framework of this trade fair. Last but not least, the Setra MultiClass boasts numerous new and enhanced assistance and safety systems.

Range includes a new, three-axle vehicle: the MultiClass quartet

Shortly after having launched the next generation of striking Setra ComfortClass and TopClass touring coaches, Setra is now opening up a new chapter in this segment by introducing the completely newly developed low-entry intercity buses of the MultiClass LE series.

The new MultiClass LE now offers a particularly wide range of four models. As a low-entry (LE) vehicle range, the quartet combines two worlds: low-floor convenience and comfortable travelling. Consistently designed with a low floor until just ahead of the rear axle, its fast and convenient entry and exit in the front section is impressive. Three small steps in front of the rear axle lead into the rear section. The coach-based drive and chassis technology sets new standards of comfort even on long journeys.

The Setra MultiClass LE range includes regular-service intercity buses with lengths between 10.51 and 14.52 metres featuring two and three axles. They cover operations ranging from urban routes to intercity transport over long distances in sparsely populated regions. This new generation of buses proves its worth in traditional scheduled regular-service and school bus applications, when used as shuttle bus or in feeder and works transport. The longest version, the impressive MultiClass S 518 LE three-axle vehicle, will be celebrating its premiere at Busworld Europe 2023. It is ideally suited for city and, above all, intercity routes with high passenger volumes as well as for shuttle and works transport with the need for sufficient seating capacity.

Unique design: iconic look of the MultiClass LE

Setra is a synonym for fascinating and at the same time durable design – even in a down-to-earth low-entry bus. The exterior of the new MultiClass LE has already been deliberately divided into two vehicle parts. The two segments are tied together by a wide vertical strip. The clear division of the passenger compartment into "stalls" (lower floor section) and "boxes" (upper floor section) makes the exterior of the new intercity buses more elegant.

The dark-framed, rounded A-pillars at the front, and the similarly shaped corner profiles at the rear dispel the usual boxiness and give way to smooth and flowing shapes. The roof of the intercity bus appears to float above its body. The result is a unique light and airy design.

The front of the MultiClass LE has the new face of the Setra family introduced by the brand for its current range of touring coaches. On the left and right sides above the front wheels, the trademark shows the pedigree of the new MultiClass LE – it is a genuine Setra through and through. This is also evidenced by the brand lettering on the equally distinctly shaped rear.

Variety of applications: passenger compartment, cockpit, assistance systems

The exceptional versatility of the new Setra MultiClass LE starts with the selection of doors. For entrance one, a single-leaf door is available in two widths. There is also a new option for an even wider door with two door modules. Entrance two can be configured as a single-leaf door or as a double door. On request, all models can also be equipped with a third door located behind the rear axle.

Depending on the specific door position and door variant, companies can choose between outward swivelling doors, inward swivelling doors or swivelling/sliding doors to suit their specific application. The range of ramps for passengers with restricted mobility is similarly ample. A mechanical folding ramp for door one is also available for the first time.

Completely low-floor front section, platforms on the left, right or on both sides – the new Setra MultiClass LE knows almost no limits when it comes to passenger compartment versions. The interior is practical and friendly, from the glass dividers in tall or half-tall variants, to the flooring in various designs, smooth wall coverings with decorative film or homely needle-felt surface, to the combination of light and dark panelling. The seating options are equally diverse, ranging from regular-service to excursion configurations.

The heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems of the Setra MultiClass LE are designed to meet specific needs. If climate control is required, the first expansion stage is an air-conditioned driver's workplace. A new version called EvoCool Light Basic with two roof-mounted air-conditioning modules is ideal for use in temperate regions where temperature control of the passenger compartment is sufficient. The classic EvoCool Basic roof-mounted air-conditioning system is particularly powerful. Vehicles with roof-mounted air-conditioning systems can be optionally equipped with air vents and reading lights.

The driver's workplace is just as versatile as the passenger compartment. Three variants are available: Cockpit City (city) in accordance with VDV (Association of German Transport Operators) specifications as well as Cockpit Basic City (city/intercity) or Cockpit Basic (intercity) at touring coach level.

Regardless of which cockpit is selected: the new MultiClass LE supports drivers. From the rain/light sensor to the electronic parking brake, these helpful features are part of the standard equipment. The optional 360° camera system offers perfect all-round visibility when manoeuvring and in tight spaces. This system allows pedestrians, cyclists and obstacles to be detected that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to see for the driver. The surround lighting for reversing is another significant support when manoeuvring.

Predictive Powertrain Control also in intercity operation

In conjunction with the fully-automated GO 250‑8 PowerShift transmission, the latest version of the intelligent and fuel-saving Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC) cruise control system also supports the driver. PPC integrates a driving style adapted to the topography into the automatic transmission system. In addition to motorways and trunk roads, the map material now covers almost all roads outside urban areas in Europe. PPC takes into account intersections and roundabouts and is linked to the Adaptive Cruise Control system. PPC uses stored map data to automatically reduce the vehicle's speed when entering built-up areas, before tight bends on country roads or at obstacles such as roundabouts and stop or give-way intersections.

New: Sideguard Assist 2, Frontguard Assist, Preventive Brake Assist 2

Every Setra is also a true safety champion. This is once again evident when looking at the new Setra MultiClass LE. The Sideguard Assist 2 turning assistant responds even more accurately to a risk of collision with pedestrians and cyclists, both on the door and on the driver's side. Frontguard Assist is also completely new. The system warns of obstacles or people directly in front of the vehicle. Sideguard Assist 2 and Frontguard Assist combine to create a complete warning system that warns of obstacles and people at the sides and in front of the vehicle. Together with the standard reversing camera or, even more so, the optional 360° camera system, the driver is provided with a comprehensive warning system for all aspects of his bus.

Traffic Sign Assist is also new. It warns the driver if the permissible speed is exceeded. Finally, the Tyre Pressure Monitoring system (TPM) and Attention Assist (AtAs) as well as an interface for the use of alcohol testers for the driver's workplace have been adopted as standard equipment.

Another highlight in the development of assistance systems is Preventive Brake Assist 2, the next generation of the world's first active braking assistance system specially developed for regular-service buses. Preventive Brake Assist 2 can react to stationary and moving objects, including pedestrians and cyclists. The system is capable of processing multiple objects simultaneously.

The assistance system warns of a collision. In addition, it also initiates a braking manoeuvre with partial braking at the same time. The warning cascade and brake intervention are specifically designed for use in scheduled regular-service bus operation with the aim of protecting standing passengers. Preventive Brake Assist 2, like the other features, will be optionally available or installed as standard as from spring 2024.

New: optional MirrorCam instead of outside mirrors

Another eye-catching feature is the optional MirrorCam instead of the conventional outside mirrors. The images from the cameras are transmitted to 15-inch monitors. They are installed on the inside left on the A-pillar and on the right in the centre under the front dome. An additional camera and a second compact monitor ensure a view of the front right-hand corner of the vehicle.

The MirrorCam combines numerous advantages. These include the extended field of vision for the driver, significantly better visibility in the dark, less dirt, less manoeuvring damage and a further reduction of fuel consumption thanks to a smaller front section.

Pronounced economic efficiency: from drive to digitalisation with unique services

The drive system of the Setra MultiClass LE is based on proven and economical components that have been extensively tested. At the rear of the two-axle vehicles sits the OM 936 six-cylinder in-line engine with a displacement of 7.7 litres. It is available with an output of 220 kW (299 hp) and 260 kW (354 hp). The three-axle MultiClass S 518 LE is powered by the OM 470 six-cylinder in-line engine with a displacement of 10.7 litres. It has an output of 290 kW (394 hp). Depending on the model, the ample selection of transmissions comprises a manual transmission, a fully automated manual transmission and automatic transmissions with torque converter from Voith and ZF.

The MultiClass LE is even more economical with the OM 936 in conjunction with the optional hybrid module. An electric motor between the engine and transmission works as an alternator in overrun or braking mode and generates electricity without fuel consumption. This is stored in two storage modules on the roof. In load situations such as when moving off, the 14 kW electric motor uses this energy to support the combustion engine. It thus consumes less fuel.

The comprehensive Omniplus services are also an essential component of the outstanding economic efficiency of the new Setra MultiClass LE: these include traditional topics such as the largest bus-specific service network in Europe or the tailor-made Basic, BasicPlus, Premium, Premium Regional, Premium Dynamic or Premium Regional Dynamic service contracts. One completely new addition to the range of services is the Omniplus ExpertHandling training course dedicated specifically to the Setra MultiClass LE. This training course turns professionals at the wheel into true experts.

Economy also means digitalisation in the new MultiClass LE. Bus Data Centre is on board as standard. It serves as an Omniplus On interface for data transmission and a key to Omniplus On digital services, the digital services provided by Omniplus. The Omniplus On Uptime pro service ensures complete transparency regarding messages from the driver's display and represents fully remote diagnosis, which boosts availability. The Omniplus On Portal gives fleets access to all relevant diagnostic information at any time and in real-time. With Omniplus On monitor, fleet managers never lose track of their vehicle fleet, wherever they are. Whether it's the vehicle tracker, fuel consumption or driver card and mass storage download, these and other data can also be provided for integration into internal systems using Omniplus On Data Packages.