Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, today launched the BB1924, the upgraded heavy-duty bus designed specifically for India’s rapidly expanding intercity passenger transport segment. With a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 19,500 kg (19.5T), the BB1924 addresses the critical needs of India’s intercity bus operators who are seeking higher payload capacity, lower operating costs, and enhanced passenger comfort to capitalize on the country’s growing travel demand. With India’s bus market valued at USD 51.09 billion and expanding at 5.36% CAGR through 2030, the new chassis positions BharatBenz to capture a larger share of the premium intercity segment.

Commenting on the launch, Andamuthu Ponnusamy, Head of Bus Business, DICV said,

“The BB1924 represents a paradigm shift in how we think about intercity mobility. By combining advanced safety features, industry-leading localization, and a focus on total cost of ownership, BharatBenz sets a benchmark for value and reliability in intercity mobility. Our extensive field trials with leading operators across routes like Mumbai-Pune, Delhi-Jaipur, and Chennai-Bangalore have demonstrated significant reduction in total cost of ownership compared to existing solutions. 

Comprehensive Support Ecosystem for Operator Success

The BB1924 will be available across BharatBenz’s extensive network of 398 authorized touchpoints across India, ensuring convenient access and pan-India delivery support. To make acquisition seamless, BharatBenz has partnered with 15+ leading banks and NBFCs including HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Bajaj Finserv, offering competitive financing with interest rates starting at 8.5% per annum and flexible EMI tenures up to five years. 

BharatBenz’s commitment extends well beyond the point of sale through industry-leading after-sales support. Every BB1924 comes backed by a comprehensive 6-year or 6 lakh kilometer powertrain warranty, complemented by 24×7 roadside assistance across the country. The company guarantees 95% parts availability within 24/48 hours through its robust localized supply chain, minimizing downtime and ensuring operational continuity. Operators can further enhance their fleet management through predictive maintenance enabled by IoT-based telematics, while comprehensive driver and technician training programs conducted in regional languages ensure optimal vehicle performance. The new bus with a maintenance pack (AMC) for up to 6 year/6lakhs kilometer and a dedicated customer support helpline for a complete ownership experience, reinforcing its commitment to long-term operator profitability and peace of mind.

Focus on Passenger Safety

Safety remains a defining pillar of BharatBenz’s engineering philosophy. The BB1924 has been meticulously designed to deliver uncompromised safety for passengers, drivers, and operators alike. Equipped with advanced systems such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Vehicle Stability Control (EVSC) and a CAN based, ECU controlled electromagnetic retarder with 5-stage control mechanism, ensures enhanced vehicle control and shorter braking distances even under demanding road conditions. The high-tensile steel chassis provides superior structural integrity and crash protection, while factory-fitted Michelin radial tubeless tires offer improved traction and durability. In line with BharatBenz’s holistic approach to safety, dedicated driver training programs and predictive maintenance solutions further strengthen the company’s commitment to safe, reliable, and efficient intercity transportation.

Product Overview

The BB1924 features a 19,500 kg GVW enabling higher passenger capacity (up to 51+1+1 seats) and luggage loads, maximizing per-trip revenue for intercity operators. Built on BharatBenz’s 92% localized supply chain, the chassis delivers superior cost competitiveness and parts availability.

Technical Specifications:

Powertrain

• BS-VI OBD-II OM926, 6-cylinder diesel engine with turbocharger & intercooler, producing 241hp of power & 850 Nm of flat torque over wide RPM range
• 6-speed synchromesh gearbox optimized for highway efficiency
• 6-year 6 lakh KM powertrain Warranty 

Safety & Comfort

• Front & rear pneumatic suspension with anti-roll bars
• ABS with EBD
• 5-stage electromagnetic retarder (reduces brake wear by 40%)
• Electronic Stability Control
• Cruise control
• Brake hold assist
• Warning through TFT display

Chassis & Build

• High-tensile steel frame: 255 x 73.3 x 7 mm
• Wheelbase: 6,850 mm
• Factory-fitted Michelin 295/80 R22.5 radial tubeless tires

Operational Features

• Fuel tank capacity: 380L (1,300+ km range)
• Service intervals: 1st service at 60,000 km after that at every 1,20,000 kilometers
• Designed for 10–15 years service life