Stadtwerke Ulm/Neu-Ulm (SWU) Verkehr GmbH has signed a contract with Daimler Buses to procure 37 battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eCitaro and eCitaro G buses, expanding its commitment to low-emission public transport. The deal, valued at €34.6 million, includes an option for nine additional vehicles and supports SWU’s target of making electric buses more than half of its fleet by 2027.
The new order comprises 15 solo buses and 22 articulated models, supplementing the 14 eCitaro G units already in service. The new buses will feature NMC-4 lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt batteries, each rated at 111 kWh, providing extended range and high energy density. Charging options include both depot charging via sockets and opportunity charging at designated stops using pantograph systems.
Each bus is designed with accessibility in mind, offering expanded space for wheelchairs, prams, and mobility aids. The articulated buses can carry up to 111 passengers, while the solo versions accommodate up to 65. A modern CO₂-based air conditioning system enhances comfort through advanced thermal management.
Safety systems in the fleet include Sideguard Assist 2 and Frontguard Assist for pedestrian and obstacle detection, along with Active Emergency Braking and Traffic Sign Assist technologies, aimed at improving operational safety and compliance with speed limits.
Daimler’s Digital Services Package, contracted for a 12-year period, will support real-time diagnostics and performance tracking through tools such as Omnibus On Uptime pro and Battery Monitoring. This integration enables SWU to optimize battery use, ensure warranty conditions, and streamline fleet maintenance via Omnipulse On.
The partnership with Daimler Buses, whose production facility is located in nearby Neu-Ulm, is expected to support the local economy and simplify service logistics. SWU currently transports over 41 million passengers annually and views the expanded eCitaro fleet as a key part of its long-term sustainability strategy.
