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Setra S 431 DT
10.08.2010 - 01:00

German version

Setra S 431 DT
  • Setra introduces a new double-decker
  • Setra S 431 DT completes top end of coach program
  • Enhanced active and passive safety
  • 65 mm in width provide more interior comfort


Setra S 431 DT

The S 431 DT is the "flagship" Setra TopClass 400, which was unveiled at the Hanover IAA Commercial Vehicle Show 2002. The double-deck touring coach, which is 13.89 metres long and four metres high, is the top-of-the-range model in the Setra touring coach line-up.

The S 431 DT has been completely redesigned and now provides a far more econo­mical solution than its predecessor, the S 328 DT. This is thanks to the exterior width of 2.55 metres, the increased passenger capacity with up to four more seats than comparable competing products, the longer maintenance intervals and the larger 8.4 m³ luggage compartments. Four stowage compartments with a volume of 0.8 m³ have been accommodated under the platforms between the front and rear axle for the first time - creating an additional 2.5-m³ payload volume (incl. driver's rest area).


Setra TopClass 400 - S 431 DT

Various aspects of active and passive safety have been redesigned and improved. New features include the transverse-oriented bodyshell with its construction featuring reinforcements stretching across the roof and down the sides, ensuring higher torsional stiffness and, in turn, better directional stability for the vehicle. The 50-mm extra width also promotes stable handling and contributes to overall safety of the vehicle and passengers.


Setra S 431 DT, TopClass 400, production

The design with its progressive "La Linea" aluminium styling and rising flanks adds a visible sign of dynamism and stretches the vehicle body. The interior, too, creates an all-round feeling of spaciousness thanks to the extra 65-mm width compared with the outgoing model and the increased height. The S 431 DT slots in harmoniously with the TopClass 400 design idiom courtesy of its coherent design statements both inside and out.


Setra TopClass 400 - S 431 DT

The volume and location of the two fuel tanks have been improved. They now hold 640 litres, up from 480 litres on the preceding model, are located in the rearward area and can be filled from the left- and right-hand sides. The advantage of the plastic wheel arches is that these exposed parts of the body are not damaged as easily and remain corrosion-free.

Many technical improvements and implementation of customer requests on the S 431 DT have been aimed at increasing comfort and service-friendliness and reducing possible harm to the environment. This includes improved accessibility for drivers and service staff in all vehicle areas. The spare wheel compartment and all tire-changing accessories are for instance located on the right side of the vehicle. The on-board kitchen features a new look and its modular layout includes all the usual options. The water consumption of the newly designed, easy-to-clean toilet has been reduced by 50 percent thanks to a high-pressure flushing system. The volume of the refrigerator at the front is 35 or 60 litres, depending on the version. The luggage compartment loading height has been reduced by 150 millimetres to 1 290 millimetres and the luggage compartment flap increased in width by 20 millimetres to 585 millimetres.
Entry to the boot


Spare wheel and accessories

The re-designed roof area with integrated luggage space on both the upper and
lower decks significantly improves the sense of spaciousness. The S 431 DT double-decker coach - will be available with a glass roof in its five-star specification. The double-glazed roof over the centre aisle of the top deck is tinted, with an energy transmittance rating of 21 percent and a light transmittance rating of around three percent, which is approximately equivalent to a standard pair of snow goggles. This makes the Setra S 431 DT the only double-decker touring coach to offer this exclusive luxury feature, giving passengers a unique sense of spaciousness.


The glass roof over the centre aisle

Cathodic dip paint coating for comprehensive corrosion protection is another technical improvement. The „dry“ installation space for cable sets, tubes and lines in the completely closed-off center channel extending from the driver´s seat to the engine compartment avoids potential noise transmission and water intrusion in the axle areas.


The dive operation into the CDC facility

Despite its overall length of 13,890 millimetres, the S 431 DT´s turning circle is a
mere 22,760 millimetres due to the wheelbases, overhangs and hydraulic power-assisted steering. The third axle, a ZF trailing axle with Rear Axle Steering (RAS) system, improves manoeuvrability. At steering angles of more than 5°, the trailing axle is positively steered; it remains active up to maximum speed and also when reversing. This is an additional safety factor as the trailing axle performs a lateral guidance function in all driving conditions, for example when avoiding an obstacle.

The Bus is equipped with a Mercedes-Benz OM 502 LA engine developing 370 kW (503 hp) and the automated ZF-AS Tronic 12-speed manual transmission, and meets the Euro 5 emission.


The S 431 DT is equipped with the Electronic Brake System (EBS) with a standard braking assistant, which features short response times, braking distances and permanent system monitoring; it dramatically increases overall safety . The EBS also controls the trailing axle. When the vehicle is braked, this axle is included with individual control and a separate axle modulator. The Integrated Electronic System (IES) for engine and driveline/brake management, with improved matching of engine, transmission and brakes by way of data communications, also plays an important role here.

The ergonomically designed driver´s work area with an additional 80 millimeters of rearward movement for the driver´s seat is also part of the safety package. The air-sprung seatÕs total adjustment range is 200 millimetres. The TopClass 400´s clearly laid-out cockpit has plenty of and storage space for items needed by the driver. The navigation monitor, the radio and audio and video controls and the tachograph are all within easy reach. The joystick gear shift is an outstanding feature for convenient gear selection that simplifies handling of the double-decker. The cockpit with its optimized seat and grab handle positions allows fatigue-free driving.


The driver place

Passengers are provided with functional, independent service sets on the overhead service channel. The reading lamps have been deliberately separated from the service set. The roof has provision for several electrically folded-out monitor screens if the optional video system is ordered. A multimedia system with headphone outlets and screens integrated in every seat back is available for those who require more.


The interior



The kitchen on the lower deck


Photos:
EvoBus GmbH – Setra Omnibusse


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