Electric Bus: the Mercedes eCitaro Boosts its Battery

Mercedes-Benz is fully committed to the rise of electric urban buses with a new, very mature version of its eCitaro.

In Hamburg, at the World Public Transport Summit, Mercedes-Benz unveiled its major developments. The star of the Daimler Buses stand is the eCitaro, now enhanced with new NMC4 batteries. Behind this code name that sounds like a “Star Wars” robot lies a more enduring, smarter, and more connected electric bus than ever before. And this is far from being just a concept: it will enter service as early as 2026.

A high-voltage bus

Behind its two doors and its well-built urban bus size, this new eCitaro hides a crucial advancement: a fourth-generation lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt battery, also known as NMC4. This is not just a simple refresh: Mercedes promises significantly increased range and extended lifespan, all without turning charging into an endless punishment in terms of duration.

The secret? Intelligent charging: 150 kW in gentle charging mode for longevity, 300 kW in turbo mode for tight days. Enough to avoid finishing the route with flashing headlights and complaining passengers.

A bus, a charger, an app

But Mercedes doesn’t stop there. Through Daimler Buses Solutions GmbH, the brand aims to sell much more than just a bus: it offers an all-in-one package that includes feasibility analysis to the complete installation of charging infrastructure. This promises a hassle-free switch to electric for community groups: everything is planned, connected, and integrated. Operators just need to drive.

The digital cherry on the hood

On the services side, Mercedes is also increasing capabilities. Each eCitaro will now come with its Digital Services Package: real-time battery monitoring, up-to-date warranty status, and even a dynamic geo-tracking feature linked to speed. Translation: you can define zones where the bus automatically slows down. Handy for avoiding speeding in city centers and penalizing drivers who disregard traffic laws.

In short, this new eCitaro is no longer just electric; it becomes strategic. It drives further, lasts longer, considers its operator’s needs, and even prevents you from driving too fast. What more could you ask for?

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