Daimler adds COVID-secure features
Both Mercedes-Benz and Setra brands from Daimler Buses is continuing to focus on exemplary safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. The air conditioning systems fitted as standard in coaches already is designed to protect against the risk of infection by ensuring rapid air exchange onboard. New features include standard high-performance particle filters with antiviral action, as well as driver protection doors for coaches and sensor-controlled disinfectant dispensers. Daimler Buses is offering an optional adjustment of the characteristic curve for coaches, which extends the range in which the maximum level of fresh air flows into the vehicle by either 33% or 40%, depending on the model.
Gustav Tuschen, Head of Product Development & Procurement at Daimler Buses, said: “With state-of-the-art filter technologies and an above-average fresh air exchange rate, our touring coaches have always combined safety and comfort at the highest level. Among other things, the use of anti-viral functional layers has enabled us to significantly improve hygiene protection measures once again. And one thing is clear: drivers and passengers can also travel during the coronavirus pandemic without any concerns and with a feeling of safety, provided that the required distance and face covering rules are observed.”
Upon request, the maximum fresh air content of the air conditioning systems in the popular Mercedes-Benz Tourismo, Setra ComfortClass 500, TopClass 500 and S 531 DT double-decker coach series can be increased by as much as 33% or 40% by additionally extending the outside temperature range for maximum fresh air supply upwards and downwards.
Filter systems with anti-viral functionality are today already used in the climate control systems of buses from Setra to effectively remove particles from the air. The active filters can be ordered for the current Mercedes-Benz Tourismo, both for new vehicles and as a retrofit solution. Appropriate active filters for the Mercedes-Benz Citaro regular-service urban bus will follow this year. Vehicles equipped with an active filter are also fitted with a sticker in the entrance area which is visible to passengers.
To prevent droplet infections, Daimler Buses developed professional driver protection doors made of safety glass and high-quality plastic polycarbonate initially for use in Mercedes-Benz Citaro regular-service urban buses. Driver protection doors are also available for the current Mercedes-Benz Tourismo series. This isn’t just applicable to new vehicles, there is also a retrofit solution available.
A contactless disinfectant dispenser is available for Daimler PCVs, which is designed to prevent the user’s hands from coming into contact with the device and should even prevents the transmission of germs on the dispenser itself. The sensor-controlled dispenser for disinfectant, which can be mounted on the door mechanisms, can be ordered for Mercedes-Benz and Setra buses from the end of September.