Germany, Ulm and Neu-Ulm will have further 37 Mercedes eCitaro in operation

German transport operator SWU Verkehr, managing public transport services in Ulm and Neu-Ulm, has awarded Daimler Buses a contract to supply 37 fully electric Mercedes eCitaro and eCitaro G buses, with an option for nine additional units. The agreement, signed on 18 July 2025 at Ulm Town Hall Square, represents a total investment of 34.6 million euros.

Fourteen eCitaro G articulated buses are already in service in the SWU fleet. With deliveries of the new vehicles set to continue through the end of 2026, and optional units planned for 2027, SWU is progressing toward a full transition from diesel to electric operation across its urban routes.

Ulm and Neu-Ulm to have e-buses in service

The new electric buses will operate in Ulm and Neu-Ulm. The order includes 15 eCitaro solo buses (12.14 meters, three doors) and 22 eCitaro G articulated buses (18.3 meters, four doors), with capacities of up to 65 and 143 passengers respectively. All buses are equipped with the latest-generation NMC4 lithium batteries, each with 111 kWh energy content per pack. The system enables high energy density and supports depot charging up to 300 kW.

Charging is possible via side-mounted depot sockets or pantographs at designated stops. To ensure precise positioning, the vehicles include a roof-mounted camera system that supports alignment during opportunity charging.

Climate control is managed by a CO₂ air conditioning system, while enhanced accessibility features include larger multipurpose areas for wheelchairs, prams, or walking aids.

Each new eCitaro will be integrated with Daimler Buses’ Omniplus On Digital Services Package, which SWU Verkehr GmbH has contracted for a 12-year period. Services include Uptime pro, a telemetry-based system that enables predictive maintenance by continuously monitoring key vehicle components.

“Electromobility in public transport is an essential component for liveable cities. We are delighted to be able to support SWU in this forward-looking project – with our know-how, innovative technology and a strong team directly on site in Neu-Ulm,” said Till Oberwörder, CEO of Daimler Buses.

“We are pleased that with Daimler Buses we have a reliable partner at our side which has already proven its competence many times over,” added Ralf Gummersbach, Managing Director of SWU Verkehr. “We particularly welcome the fact that this is a German manufacturer located directly here in Neu-Ulm. In this way, a significant part of the value creation remains in the country – this strengthens our domestic economy and brings additional benefits for service and maintenance”.