With more than 31,000 vehicles sold in only 13 years of production, the Mercedes-Benz Citaro is the most successful public service bus ever built. Today, at the bus manufacturing plant in Mannheim, the Citaro opened a new chapter of its success story when the completely redeveloped public service bus was unveiled to more than 150 European journalists. The presentation was managed by Andreas Renschler, member of the Daimler AG Board of Management with responsibility for Daimler Trucks and Daimler Buses, and Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses.

"The new Mercedes-Benz Citaro city bus shows how we are shaping the future of public transport – and underlines our leading role in the bus and coach sector," explained Andreas Renschler at the event in Mannheim. "In developing the Citaro, we have taken an uncompromising approach to economic efficiency, comfort and safety. The result is a welcome addition to any city profile."

It is clear from the design of the new Citaro that the entire vehicle – from headlamps to tail lights – has undergone thorough redevelopment. A particularly striking feature is the new "face" of the Citaro, with its large, almond-shaped headlamps and rounded front section. The interior is more inviting, with brighter colours and a softer ceiling design. The driver is seated in a new, raised cockpit. The instrument cluster has improved ergonomic qualities and relays substantially more information.

The safety concept of the new Mercedes-Benz Citaro sets new standards. Featuring the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for the first time, the city bus also includes unique front impact protection and a more rigid framework structure.

The new Citaro relies on proven technology to deliver high economic performance and environmental compatibility. Deploying the economical, eco-friendly engines of the previous Citaro range, it also features BlueTEC diesel technology that complies with the Euro V and EEV emissions standards.

Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses: "The new Citaro is not just about advanced technology. It is embodies passion and enthusiasm. I am confident that the new Citaro will surpass the success of its predecessor and set even higher standards."