[IMAGE]MET4UMA-Daimler.jpg[/IMAGE]Daimler Buses North America unveiled the new Setra TopClass S 417 at this year's UMA Motorcoach Expo in Las Vegas with more than 30 new features and innovative developments.   

Safety features were central to the development concept and the new Setra TopClass S 417 takes this aspect to a level previously unprecedented in North America. From now on, the vehicle will be equipped with a Front Collision Guard (FCG). The FCG functions as an underride guard in accordance with the ECE-R 93 European standard and also meets the requirements of the pendulum impact test used to assess the crashworthiness of a vehicle framework structure in accordance with ECE-R 29.

In the event of a front-end collision, the FCG module with its integrated impact-absorbing structure pushes the driver's area rearwards. Installing FCG lengthens the front end, which caused Daimler to reshape the rear bumper to maintain its 45-foot length.  

Improvements were also made to active safety elements with the result that a new light element in the front section illuminates the junction area ahead of the vehicle when turning. The integrated front fog lamps thus fulfill a cornering light function when an indicator is activated. Furthermore, this three-axle vehicle is now equipped with light and rain sensors that respond to changes in lighting and weather conditions and automatically activate the headlamps and windscreen wipers when necessary.

Additionally, to comply with the U.S. emission standard on nitrogen oxides and particulates, EPA 10, the Setra TopClass S 417 is fitted with the redesigned OM 471 LA engine, which develops 336 kW at maximum torque of 2100 Nm. This engine is combined with an Allison WTB 500 automatic transmission. New insulation for the engine compartment cuts heat dissipation while also reducing noise to the vehicle interior.

So that there is still room for the powertrain unit the enlarged cooling system, which now directs the air that is drawn in down and rearwards, has been moved to the right-hand side of the vehicle. The exhaust system has shifted to the rear left. This is also where the new air intake system can be found as moving this from the area above the rear axles to the rear left corner of the vehicle has two advantanges: the designers were able to shorten line paths to the engine and there is now room for additional stowage space over the axles.

A wheelchair lift is available as an option and can be installed in the luggage compartment area on the right-hand side of the Setra TopClass S 417, which also has a new look at the rear courtesy of a new engine compartment flap.

Installing the new, ecofriendly engine with its special emission control system also meant changes were made to the fuel filling system. The filler neck remains on the left-hand side of the vehicle but access on the right has been modified. To meet EPA 10 requirements, an extra tank for the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) for the emission control system has been integrated into the existing tank compartment. The tank capacity of the Setra TopClass S 417 is now 180 gallons without having any impact on the loadspace for luggage.

New interior appointments include a leather multifunction steering wheel with integrated button functions and a new cluster instrument with a clear 3D effect and multifunction display, an ergonomically designed cockpit and a driver's seat with three-point seat belt.  

The passenger seats have also been completely redesigned to ensure comfort that is kind to your back when travelling and will be available from autumn 2010 when the new touring coaches with EPA 10-compliant engines are launched.