Mercedes-Benz Citaro bus goes Euro VI

Known to be the pioneer when it comes to technology, Mercedes-Benz has done it again by being the first to start of series production for the cleanest regular-service diesel bus. The first Citaro left the production line at the EvoBus plant in Mannheim with Mercedes-Benz Oncemore taking the lead in the field of eco-friendly buses. Based on pioneering diesel technology, they reduce CO2 emissions and ensure a clean environment for our towns and cities.

One of the inherent features of Euro VI emissions technology is that it increases fuel consumption. And yet the Mercedes-Benz Citaro manages to use even less than ever. To achieve this, the engineers have really put their innovative thinking caps on. As just one example: during braking or coasting down a slope, the alternators generate “free” electricity that is then stored on board the truck in a series of super-condensers. A second example: the rear door entrances are now lower.  When “kneeling” or lifting again at a bus stop, the bus therefore requires less energy. All in all, the Citaro with Euro VI saves around three to five percent fuel. With normal service mileage, it will therefore use around 1 000 litres less diesel and emit around 2.6 tonnes less CO2 each year.  

Working away at the back of this best-selling regular-service bus are some new engines. The six-cylinder in-line units with a displacement of either 7.7 or 10.7 litres deliver output ranging from 299 to 394 PS. The tried and tested Mercedes-Benz SCR emission control system with AdBlue injection and closed-loop particulate filter is combined here with an exhaust gas recirculation system. To accommodate the new engines and the complexities of the emission control system, the Citaro now features a new tail end design. The potential extra weight of Euro VI is compensated for here by a number of measures, ranging from a lightweight glass-fibre-reinforced plastic roof to a weight-optimised rear axle. As a result the payload, and thus the number of passengers who can be accommodated in the Citaro, remains unchanged. Clean, frugal and practical, the Citaro is definitely a star amongst buses.