Mercedes-Benz Enters the Electric Era with its Classic Chassis OF
The German automaker is preparing to launch an electric version of its popular OF chassis, which will be available in Brazil in 2027.
The Mercedes-Benz OF chassis has been a staple in the transportation industry for decades, known for its simplicity and robustness. The chassis, which features a front-engine design and a high roof, has been used in various bus models for urban and intercity routes.
The traditional OF chassis is now entering a new era with the introduction of the eCity, an electric version of the classic design. The eCity was unveiled at the recent LatBus 2026 exhibition in São Paulo, where Mercedes-Benz showcased its latest innovations in the bus industry.
The eCity retains the traditional OF chassis design but replaces the traditional diesel engine with a fully electric powertrain. The new model features a battery pack, a control module, and an electric propulsion system, which provides a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional diesel engines.
The eCity will be manufactured in partnership with Caio and will be available in Brazil in 2027. The bus will feature a 12-meter length and an estimated autonomy of 150 km, making it suitable for secondary routes in large cities.
According to Walter Barbosa, vice-president of Sales, Marketing, and Parts & Services for Mercedes-Benz in Brazil, the eCity will be sold as a fully assembled bus, simplifying the acquisition process for operators and making the adoption of electric technology more accessible and efficient.
The eCity is a significant addition to Mercedes-Benz's electric bus lineup, which already includes smaller microbuses and larger articulated and bi-articulated models. With the introduction of the eCity, Mercedes-Benz aims to make all its bus models 100% electric in the future.
## The Evolution of the OF Chassis
The OF chassis has undergone significant changes over the years, with the introduction of new technologies and features. The eCity represents a major milestone in the evolution of the OF chassis, marking a shift towards electric propulsion and a more sustainable future for the transportation industry.
## Electric Buses in Brazil
The introduction of the eCity in Brazil marks a significant step towards the adoption of electric buses in the country. With its estimated autonomy of 150 km, the eCity is well-suited for secondary routes in large cities, where electric buses can play a crucial role in reducing emissions and improving air quality.
## Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz eCity represents a significant innovation in the bus industry, marking a shift towards electric propulsion and a more sustainable future for transportation. With its estimated autonomy of 150 km and its 12-meter length, the eCity is well-suited for secondary routes in large cities, making it an attractive option for operators looking to reduce their environmental impact.
| Attribute | eCity | | --- | --- | | Length | 12 m | | Autonomy | 150 km | | Propulsion | Electric | | Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz (in partnership with Caio) | | Availability | 2027 (Brazil) |
