Daimler Promises Two New Electric Bus Models By 2018

Daimler recently announced that it would launch two alternative fuel buses by 2018. One of them, Citaro E-CELL, will be powered completely be electric means, while the other, Citaro F-Cell will be fuel cell operated. The two buses join an expanding portfolio of eco-oriented vehicles driven by compressed natural gas and clean diesel. The company is developing both the models on a joint platform called the E-Mobility platform. However, the Indian arm of the brand BharatBenz would not receive them as they launch.

Both power-trains, currently in their concept stage, will be made available by 2018. The company is undertaking this project with a vision of transforming modes of transport to make them cleaner and less harmful. Different areas of vehicle production will be intertwined in the development of the new model. The buses' efficient electronic set-up will be dependant on varying divisions of build, interacting to form a reliable system. Daimler is planning to boost the driver experience with easier controls for the systems. Along with this, it also plans to install sound safety programs such as Advanced Emergency Braking System, and an all new LED headlamps that for enhanced visibility.

Daimler is an eminent player in the commercial vehicles space. The company has a good grip on the bus market around the world. Apart from selling conventional vehicles, the company has also had a history of experimenting with ground-breaking technologies to introduce in its models. The auto maker has been a leading pioneer in the drive towards eco-friendly transport. The company joined other marques such as Kamaz in a closely watched race towards the world's first self-driven vehicles. Following this, the firm broke new ground towards the end of last year, displaying one of its self-driven Mercedes-Benz trucks on German roads.