HTM Celebrates as 70,000th Mercedes-Benz Citaro Rolls Off the Line

Since its debut in 1997, the iconic Mercedes-Benz Citaro has hit a remarkable milestone, with 70,000 buses now gracing streets around the world. During Daimler Buses’ eMobility Days 2.0 in Berlin, the 70,000th Citaro—a fully electric eCitaro—was handed over in style. 

Daimler Truck AG

Till Oberwörder, CEO of Daimler Buses and Mirko Sgodda, Head of Marketing, Sales and Customer Services, handed the symbolic key to Karen Bosch, COO of HTM Personenvervoer N.V., The Hague.

Sustainability on the Streets of The Hague

HTM, based in The Hague, Netherlands, operates the city’s tram and bus network. Known as the political heart of the Netherlands and home to the International Court of Justice, The Hague is a bustling urban centre where public transport plays a critical role in daily life. The addition of the eCitaro reinforces the city’s commitment to reducing emissions while offering a quiet, comfortable ride for passengers.

A Milestone for Sustainable Mobility

Till Oberwörder reflected on the occasion:

"It fills us with joy and pride to celebrate this special milestone together with HTM Personenvervoer. Of course, the 70,000th Citaro from our production is an electric Citaro. The vehicle is not only proof of the innovative strength of Daimler Buses and the trust of its customers, but also demonstrates our commitment to a more sustainable future. The all-electric eCitaro represents the path that Daimler Buses will consistently continue to take in the coming years."

HTM’s Sustainable Vision

HTM COO Karen Bosch shared her enthusiasm for the new addition:

“With the arrival of the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro, HTM is making an important contribution to a sustainable The Hague region with its public transport. With the eCitaro, we offer our passengers comfortable and quiet bus transport. And our bus drivers get a beautiful new workplace, so that they can continue to bring passengers to their destination with pleasure and professionalism.”

Daimler Truck AG

The eCitaro: Safety Meets Comfort

The 70,000th bus is part of HTM’s fleet of 95 eCitaro and eCitaro G buses destined for The Hague. Equipped with cutting-edge NMC 3 batteries and pantograph charging, this three-door integral bus is as advanced, as it is efficient.

In true Mercedes-Benz style, safety is paramount, with features like Sideguard Assist 2, Frontguard Assist, Traffic Sign Assist and Attention Assist (AtAs), creating a secure environment for passengers and pedestrians alike. Inside, a sleek wood-look floor, luxurious HTM-branded seating and special spaces for wheelchair users and prams ensure accessibility and comfort for all. Meanwhile, state-of-the-art climate control keeps things cosy regardless of the weather.

The Legacy of the Citaro

From its launch in 1997, the Mercedes-Benz Citaro has been a trailblazer in urban mobility. The first generation wowed with its sleek design and focus on passenger comfort, while the second generation upped the ante, including the world’s first Euro VI-compliant city bus in 2012.

In 2018, the eCitaro brought the brand into the electric age, quickly becoming one of Europe’s favourites. Its accolades, including multiple “Bus of the Year” awards and the “Electric Bus Champion” title, underline its standing as a leader in public transport innovation.

As the 70,000th bus takes to the roads, the Mercedes-Benz Citaro’s story continues to inspire, setting new standards in sustainability, safety and passenger comfort.