Vehicle profile: Setra MultiClass S 515 LE hybrid: Comfortable low-entry bus for long interurban routes

• Comfortable low-entry bus for long interurban routes
• Elegant on the outside, functional and comfortable on the inside
• Attractive cockpit, powerful drive

The new Setra MultiClass 500 LE demonstrates its tremendous versatility even during long interurban routes with extended periods spent on board. It is suitable for factory and feeder services or generally for those with enhanced comfort requirements. The test vehicle proved this as a two-axle variant with high-quality equipment. It demonstrated that Setra low-entry buses are always economical –and much more besides.

Elegant on the outside, functional and comfortable on the inside

External, elegant built-in mirrors with additional mirror for close-range visibility, a single-wing outward swivelling door at entrance one and a double-wing outward swivelling door at entrance two. Inside, homely fittings with a wood-look floor, platforms on both sides and wall panels covered in Ocean needle felt ensure passengers will feel comfortable even during longer trips. They find their spot amongst the Setra Transit interurban seats. The seats and backrests are comfortably padded and covered with a black and blue fabric. Additionally, there are black headrests made of composition leather fibre material and luggage racks. Mesh luggage racks and storage compartments above the wheel arches in the front section are used for hand luggage. All this, including the arrangement of the seats on platforms, creates a tasteful atmosphere.

A manually operated folding ramp is available at entrance two for passengers with restricted mobility. In the special use area just opposite, wheelchairs can be secured using retractors. These are recessed in the platforms.

The comprehensive Infotainment system includes the Coach MediaRouter for internet access and media streaming, illuminated USB double sockets per double seat in the side walls, and a 21.5-inch TFT screen. Long-distance comfort can optionally be enhanced with Setra Route coach seats.

The test vehicle's air conditioning system is also of high quality. The glass roof hatches are operated electrically and the side windows are double-glazed. The powerful EvoCool Basic rooftop air conditioning system with air ducts maintains comfortable temperatures. The driver’s workplace has separate air-conditioning.

Attractive cockpit, powerful drive

The driver’s workplace is equally functional and comfortable. A transparent rear wall and the door to the driver's cab ensure proximity while maintaining distance. The Basic Cockpit comes up to coach standards in terms of appearance, operation and instrumentation with large round dials, a centrally located colour display and a multifunction steering wheel. There is ample provision for the driver's personal belongings: in addition to the numerous storage compartments within the driver's cab, there is a spacious storage cupboard at the front right of the entrance. Optimum visibility is a fundamental requirement for high safety levels : In addition to the elegant integral mirrors, there is an additional mirror for close-range visibility, and a360° camera system.

The powertrain of the test vehicle provides the right amount of propulsion. It is based on the compact and low-emission Mercedes-Benz OM 936 inline six-cylinder engine, here with a power output of 260 kW (354 hp). It is coupled with the ZF Ecolife 2 automatic transmission with torque converter, 1-2-3-D-N-R gear selector and a quiet and economic hypoid drive axle. While powerful and economical by design, equipping the bus with a recuperation module, a hybrid module and intelligent on-board power management further reduces both fuel consumption and, consequently, emissions. Furthermore, drivers of the Setra MultiClass can optimise their driving style with the assistance of the Driver Score system.

MultiClass S 515 LE hybrid technical data

Further information from Setra are available at:
www.media.daimlertruck.com and www.setra-bus.com