However, the new Setra MultiClass 500 LE was a real challenge for him and the entire design team. Using a low-entry model as an intercity bus is highly sensitive in terms of costs. Added to this is the unique complexity of the four new models in the series. “The MultiClass 500 LE is our Swiss army knife”, Thess explains.

Traditionally, the design process starts with an intensive conceptual phase. Thess says, “We initially looked at the proportions of the passenger compartment and analysed the cross-section”. The first development steps concentrated on the air ducts and luggage racks because “they dictate the style”. Another pivotal aspect for creating a consistent look in the passenger compartment was arranging the longitudinal tubes of the frame and the handrails.

In other cases, the high front section of a low-entry bus is regarded as a visual hindrance, but Vincent Thess opted for a completely different approach. "The MultiClass 500 LE is undoubtedly something special – there is more scope for design. There are basically two areas, the low-floor front section and the high-floor section at the rear. There’s something architectural about that."

The palette chosen for the interior is a significant factor in the consistent appearance of the new Setra MultiClass 500 LE. Along with her colleague Cordula Lambert, Eva Müller is responsible for Color & Trim, i.e. the shades and materials used in the interior. Lambert explains her design: the ceiling is pale above the dark structure of the windows, then a grey strip starts at the cockpit and runs across the wheel arches and wall panelling. Everything is deliberately subdued. Eva Müller adds, "This makes the seat cushion fabric pop. Otherwise you wouldn't know where to look".

Cordula Lambert points out the ample feeling of space, regardless of whether you are sitting in the front or rear section. “There is no restricted visibility with these large expanses of window.” The designers have further amplified this feeling of spaciousness and transparency. The black trims of the window pillars let the side windows merge into one another and simplify the surface – joints disappear. Dark air ducts conceal additional components like speakers and make the pale internal ceiling appear more tranquil.

The new glass partition walls have an airy, transparent, higher-quality feel and create “a visual lightness”, explains Eva Müller. If you take a close look, you will notice that the intricate prints on the partition walls echo the elegant engraving of the Kässbohrer brand badges. This reveals that this attractive element is an affectionate nod to the Setra brand's great heritage. Partition walls also feature the brand logo.

“We scrutinised every element” stresses Vincent Thess. He also studied older buses and touring coaches and discovered wear and tear on corners and edges after many years of intensive use. His conclusion is logical: “Fewer edges mean less wear and tear”. This is the reason behind the new curved door mechanism trims – they prevent unsightly signs of wear. The light surface further freshens up the interior of the MultiClass.

In addition to a wide variety of seating and layouts, transport companies can choose from an enormous range of materials and colours for the colour scheme of the passenger area. From handrails, to fabrics and side wall panelling covered with easy-care laminate or robust needle felt, “the range of choice is huge” says Eva Müller. Operators benefit from the fact that we can give their fleets a uniform appearance.

"There are many ways to add colour to the passenger compartment", says Eva Müller, adding "but there are also subtle, elegant designs available". The Setra genes of the low-entry bus are reflected in this variety: “anything is possible,” says Cordula Lambert.

But what would a designer recommend when choosing an interior for the Setra MultiClass 500 LE? Vincent Thess advises, "Think hard about the colours. A colourful interior does not increase the perceived value of the vehicle. I recommend opting for understated accents of colour”.

Eva Müller agrees with her colleague: “There is a clear trend towards designing bus interiors with a calm and peaceful look“. She advises using areas of colour sparingly and carefully. This means focusing either on the floor, the seats or the handrails. Her tip? “Use the subtle design of the standard equipment as a backdrop for striking seat patterns, for instance.”

“Less is more”, adds Cordula Lambert, advocating understated colour schemes. Her surprising and also logical advice: "We want the MultiClass to be inviting for passengers – somewhere where everyone feels comfortable. And the colour should draw them in".