Work in conjunction with van colleagues will sees increased axle weights deliver capacity that resets bar
Daimler Buses has revealed a radical Mercedes-Benz Sprinter-based low-floor minibus that will carry up to 38 passengers, of which around 24 will be seated. It will make its UK debut in mid-2019.
The two-axle Sprinter City 75 utilises a standard new-shape chassis cowl, which is lengthened by around 1m largely within the wheelbase to 8.4m, allowing a larger low-floor area than in the current City 45.
Axles and suspension are also upgraded. In particular, the 5,000kg rear rating allows a GVW of 6,800kg, although work at the front may further increase the overall figures to 7,000kg GVW and 40 passengers.
Still manoeuvrable
Although coachbuilt, the body retains a Sprinter conversion’s width of 2.02m. The City 45 is not affected by the arrival of the City 75, and it will be available in right-hand drive form on the new Sprinter from early 2019, says EvoBus (UK) Director Mercedes-Benz Sales Marcus Watts.
“The City 75’s chassis and axle alterations were developed by, and are exclusive to, Daimler Buses. They will not be available to any other bodybuilder or converter,” he adds.
Within the saloon, the low-floor area is slightly inclined towards the door. No kneeling mechanism is thus required to achieve a step height of 270mm. A manual ramp is fitted and up to two wheelchair users can be carried.
Technology laden
Power remains from the standard 2.1-litre OM 651 engine rated at 163bhp and coupled to a 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic gearbox. A battery electric version will follow, but not in the short term.
As with all new Sprinters, the City 75 comes with Daimler’s MBUX multimedia system along with a high level of connectivity. As standard, it also has Crosswind Assist, Active Brake Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist.
A 6,800kg Travel 75 minicoach will follow. It is still at the product planning stage and further details are awaited.
