“The topography around Königstein is quite challenging, which is why the power of the 300 hp engine comes in handy,” says Lars Altenbrand, fleet engineer at HLB Hessenbus GmbH, a subsidiary of Hessische Landesbahn GmbH, discussing their initial impressions after the first few months using the new Setra S 515 LE low-entry buses in regular service.

Since December 2024, HLB Hessenbus GmbH has been operating 20 S 515 LE. The 12.2‑metre-long buses are among the first vehicles with two double-leaf inward swiveling doors that Setra has delivered. The buses will be used on the MTK‑West route bundle, comprising a total of 18 bus routes. Alternatively, the vehicles also operate on other Main‑Taunus‑Verkehrsgesellschaft (MTK) routes, the operator on behalf of which HLB Hessenbus GmbH operates. The two-axle vehicles are powered by a Mercedes‑Benz OM 936 in-line six-cylinder engine with a displacement of 7.7 litres. This provides the powerful drive that Altenbrand needs, given the topography in the Main‑Taunus region.

For their use on MTK routes, the fully accessible, low-entry buses are each equipped with 36 seats and 59 standing spaces as well as a wider centre aisle. A wheelchair ramp at the second door of the S 515 LE can be folded out manually to guarantee accessibility for wheelchair users or other passengers with reduced mobility. Bus driver Hakan Aktas says that this is particularly important at bus stops in cities.

Hakan Aktas is very pleased with the air-conditioning system for the driver and the driver’s seat, which can be heated or cooled as desired. Drivers also have access to one USB port. “All of this makes working in the bus very comfortable”, he says with a smile. The experienced bus driver also appreciates the safety and assistance systems that support him at the wheel of the S 515 LE. The 360‑degree camera and Sideguard Assist in particular are a great help.

“We have a lot of cyclists around the region’s popular spots, especially in spring and summer, which is why drivers really appreciate Sideguard Assist”, confirms Lars Altenbrand. They are “very happy with the vehicle”, adds the fleet engineer. And, after the first few months, Altenbrand is also happy with the Setra S 515 LE, with the exception of minor teething problems, as he calls them, which are quite common at the start of day‑to‑day operations. Everything was quickly resolved in close cooperation with Daimler Buses. Even though, for once, there had been some delays in the early days, the cooperation with Daimler Buses ultimately paid off: “Our maintenance contract includes a pick-up and delivery service – Daimler picks up the bus and takes care of everything, which is great”, explains Altenbrand with satisfaction.