- Villach-based transport operator Kowatsch takes delivery of S 516 MD in Vienna
- Landmark vehicle is first middle decker bus for Dr. Richard group of companies
Setra has delivered the 2500th vehicle of the ComfortClass 500 model series. The owner is the Villach-based transport operator Kowatsch Nfg. GmbH, which is part of the Dr. Richard group of companies. The landmark bus, an S 516 MD, is also the first middle decker to be purchased by the large Vienna-based company. Equipped with, among other things, bi-xenon headlamps, on-board toilet, panoramic camera and video system, the 53‑seater touring coach also features the latest in safety assistance systems. These include Lane Assistant (SPA) as well as adaptive cruise control (ART) with Active Brake Assist (ABA3), which is capable of automatically initiating emergency braking also in the case of stationary obstacles.
For Ulrich Bastert, Head of Marketing, Sales and After Sales Daimler Buses, the official handover of the vehicle at the Service Centre of EvoBus Austria in Wiener Neudorf was clear proof of the Europe-wide success of the innovative model series that was launched in 2012:”I am pleased that this landmark vehicle of the Setra ComfortClass 500 is going to a partner with whom we have for many years been able to jointly develop solutions for new trends in the industry.”
Landmark bus a prototype for new bus design
Also for Dr. Ludwig Richard, the long-standing partnership with the Ulm-based bus brand is of significance: “For us, it is a great honour and privilege to take delivery of this vehicle, with which we wish to send out a very special signal. The S 516 MD is the prototype for a restyled corporate design.”
Based in Villach, the Kowatsch company offers, among other things, an extensive travel programme to numerous destinations in Austria and the surrounding countries as well as transfers, excursions and company outings. In addition, the bus company from Carinthia operates several bus services in the urban area of Villach.
Setra ComfortClass 500 on a successful course since 2012
Launched in 2012, the ComfortClass 500 demonstrated maximum energy efficiency in a spectacular Record Run. With the vehicles, the brand raised the bar to a new level in the areas of economy, comfort, safety and look & feel.
Since autumn 2014, the 13.1 metre long S 516 MD middle decker has also been a member of the successful model series. Also with a reduced base frame and a height of 3.56 metres, the two-axle bus blends harmoniously into the existing product family while demonstrating a character of its own.
Whether used as a shuttle, crewbus or for short weekend trips, i.e. on journeys with less luggage, it represents an alternative for all those bus operators who refuse to forgo the proven Setra standard of comfort.
