Mercedes-Benz bus shakes hands with THACO for assembly alliance
The German automotive giant strengthens its Thai market presence with the launch of the groundbreaking RS1936 platform
Reinforcing its commitment to elevate the standards of premium intercity transport in Thailand, Daimler Commercial Vehicles Thailand (DCVT) has officially launched the Mercedes-Benz RS1936, a new-generation fully built-up (FBU) coach that combines cutting-edge engineering, safety, and passenger comfort.
This significant milestone also marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration with THACO AUTO, a long-standing partner within the Daimler Bus and Truck family and one of ASEAN’s most advanced automotive manufacturers.
As Thailand’s transport and tourism sectors evolve, so do customer expectations. Mercedes-Benz Bus, long recognised for its high-quality chassis, such as the OH1626L, identified a clear shift.
As Ralf Kraemer, CEO of Daimler Commercial Vehicles Thailand, explained, operators are no longer seeking just a robust chassis; they are demanding complete, integrated solutions that deliver safety, reliability, and operational efficiency.
“We’ve listened closely to our customers. They’re looking for more than just a bus. They seek:
- Safety they can depend on,
- Comfort for every journey,
- Reliability in any operating condition,
- A seamless synergy between chassis and body,
- And the flexibility to tailor their fleet, while maintaining uncompromising quality.”
To meet these rising expectations, DCVT recognised the need for a strong, visionary partner with the capabilities to execute at a regional scale. This led to the selection of THACO AUTO as the strategic manufacturing partner for the RS1936 project.
THACO AUTO is a cornerstone of Vietnam’s automotive industry and plays a pivotal role in Southeast Asia’s vehicle manufacturing landscape. Its integrated production complex in Chu Lai features seven dedicated manufacturing plants and a comprehensive R&D centre, capable of supporting multi-brand production with high precision and consistency.
Certified to IATF 16949 (automotive quality) and ISO 14001 (environmental management) standards, the complex meets global production benchmarks. One of its highlights is the Electro Deposition (ED) coating line, among the largest in Southeast Asia, capable of treating entire bus bodies up to 13.7 metres, an ideal fit for the RS1936 platform.
What truly sets THACO AUTO apart is its ability to deliver tailored solutions without compromising on quality. Whether adapting interior layouts or customising technical specifications, THACO AUTO ensures full alignment with Mercedes-Benz Bus engineering and safety standards.
Kraemer added that this adaptability gives fleet operators greater control over functionality and design, while preserving brand integrity.
“THACO is more than a manufacturing partner, they are a strategic ally who shares our vision for innovation, quality, and long-term growth across the region.”
Engineered for medium to long-distance routes, the Mercedes-Benz RS1936 is a 12-metre coach with a passenger capacity of up to 43 seats. It is powered by the OM 460 LA 6-cylinder diesel engine with turbo intercooler, delivering 360 hp and 1,850 Nm of torque at 1,100 to 1,400 rpm.
Fully compliant with Euro 5 emission standards, the RS1936 provides both environmental responsibility and performance efficiency.
The vehicle integrates the advanced B2E+ electronic architecture, enhancing diagnostic precision, system reliability, and overall vehicle control. In addition, it comes equipped with a suite of next-generation safety technologies, including:
- Active Brake Assist Generation 5 (ABA5)
- Blind Spot Assist (BSA)
- Land Departure Warning System (LDWS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)
- ZF Retarder
- Hill Holder
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
Whether navigating urban corridors or provincial expressways, the RS1936 delivers a secure travel experience that aligns with global standards.
The launch of the RS1936 and the strategic alliance with THACO AUTO mark a pivotal moment in DCVT’s journey, spanning from a chassis supplier to a provider of fully integrated, premium bus solutions.
This partnership exemplifies Mercedes-Benz Bus’s broader commitment to shaping the future of commercial mobility in Thailand with vehicles that are engineered to perform, built to last, and designed around the needs of operators and passengers alike.
In a concluding statement, Kraemer shared,
“We’re building more than buses, we’re building confidence, capability, and long-term value for our customers across Thailand.”
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