New Mercedes-Benz Conecto Bus Specifications: Hybrid Variant Available!
Daimler Buses has officially announced a strategic move to bring the Mercedes-Benz Conecto to the German domestic market in direct response to the consistently high demand in the private sector urban bus segment.
Manufactured in Turkey, this low-floor bus is designed to complement the legendary Citaro model lineup, targeting operators with more straightforward and functional operational needs.
The arrival of this bus creates a clear technical separation in Daimler’s portfolio. While the Citaro is positioned as the primary choice for complex configurations and high-level customization, the Conecto fills the gap for simpler operational profiles.
As a result, the Mercedes-Benz Citaro is specifically engineered to meet needs such as school transport, sudden capacity replacement fleets, and other standard urban bus services.
The bus is available in a 12-meter solo bus variant, including a fuel-efficient Conecto Hybrid version, as well as an articulated bus variant (Conecto G). This covers the full spectrum of the most common urban line service requirements.
This move provides an economical alternative for operators who do not require the full range of premium features offered by the Citaro, but still want the reliability and extensive service network support from Daimler Buses.
Mechanically, the Conecto relies on the Mercedes-Benz OM 936 inline six-cylinder diesel engine with a 7.7-liter displacement for the solo bus configuration. This engine delivers 299 hp with a maximum torque of 1,200 Nm.
The power unit already complies with the stringent Euro 6 E emission standard. For greater efficiency, this variant is also available with 48V low-voltage hybrid technology that can significantly reduce fuel consumption.
Meanwhile, the articulated Conecto G variant is equipped with a more powerful engine — the OM 470 with a 10.7-liter displacement — producing 360 hp and 1,700 Nm of torque, providing optimal propulsion for higher passenger capacity.
Conecto production is carried out through a collaboration with Turkish bus manufacturer Otokar. Under this partnership, Daimler Buses supplies all core components and specialized production equipment directly to Otokar’s modern manufacturing facilities.
The presence of Daimler’s expert team on-site ensures that every unit meets the strict quality standards expected of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. This partnership provides crucial production flexibility for Daimler to quickly add extra capacity.
Although it is launching a conventionally powered model, Daimler Buses emphasizes that expanding the portfolio with the Conecto does not conflict with the company’s transformation strategy, which remains focused on sustainable products.
“The expansion of the Conecto portfolio does not contradict the company’s transformation strategy. Daimler Buses continues to drive the sustainable alignment of its product range and the development of alternative drive technologies,” Daimler stated on Saturday (11/4/2026).
The Conecto is specifically aimed at private urban bus operators looking to meet short-term capacity needs. Deliveries of the units are scheduled to begin in mid-2027, bringing a breath of fresh air to public transportation efficiency in Europe.
