Capital Equipment News December 2017

Mercedes-Benz Bus & Coach Southern Africa has introduced an entry-level bus chassis, the OF-1723.

The new bus chassis is said to be specifically designed to help customers get the better of tough business conditions

Several features are aimed at improved fuel efficiency, bearing in mind that fuel constitutes a sizeable chunk of total running costs

Mercedes-Benz Bus & Coach Southern Africa has established a dedicated team for the bus segment, to give a bus-specific service

mobility solutions providers,” adds Henry.

fuel efficiency and driving comfort. “The flat torque curve characteristics mean that high torque is available at low engine speeds,” says Henry. Meanwhile, features such as the Constant Throttle Valve Engine Brake and High Boost Pressure Turbocharger further enhance fuel efficiency. The OF-1723 bus chassis also comes with the Mercedes-Benz 6-speed G85 manual transmission which works in tandem with the motor to offer improved efficiency. With its input torque handling capacity of 850 Nm, it is said to be best in its class. It is also fitted with a cable shift mechanism and larger sized gears for improved reliability. An overdrive gear for lower engine revolutions during highway operation provides sufficient torque and high power, yielding better fuel consumption. Meanwhile, with a completely new design, the RS4 rear axle is said to aid highway

driving and improve fuel efficiency, through working in tandem with other components for greater efficiency. With maintenance costs in mind, the chassis’ clutch diameter measures in at 395 mm and 3,5 mm wear depth, with a uniquely developed organic material that enables better torque transmission while dissipating heat effectively. “This ensures a longer clutch life and reduces maintenance costs,” says Henry. With durability in mind, the powder-coated chassis is designed to provide a longer and rust-free life. It has been integrated using alligator type cross members which provide rigidity and strength, increase its load- bearing ability and reduces stress on the frame. With a width of 902 mm, the frame offers greater stability to the vehicle when driving at higher speeds. Based on Mercedes-Benz’s understanding

Nuts and bolts As Henry mentions, several features have special focus on reducing total cost of ownership. Many of these speak directly to fuel efficiency, bearing in mind that fuel constitutes a sizeable chunk of total running costs. Henry believes a major competitive edge of the new bus chassis is its driveline. It is driven by the trusted Mercedes-Benz OM 906LA engine delivering 175 kW (235 hp) of power and engine torque of 850 Nm at 1 200 to 1 600 rpm. According to Henry, the engine is no stranger to the local market and has proven itself over the years. A key feature is that 90% of the torque is achieved at 1 200 rpm, translating into better fuel economy. The engine is also said to enable greater pickup and fewer gearshifts, resulting in improved

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