The swinging sixties mark the beginning of several high-profile, successful series. Whether on stage, screen or the production line, this decade gets the world on its feet and ready to move.
SetraWorld Magazine
The 60s – decade of hits
Success in series.
Success in series.
The anniversary edition 1951 to 2021.
70 years of Setra, 45 years of the 200 series, 40 years of the double-decker bus, 30 years of the 300 series - the list could be continued. As part of our anniversary, we invite you to a very special trip. Get on board and ride with us. Through seven decades of Setra and the world events around it. What else would you do besides come on a trip with Setra?
Setra perfects the construction kit system.
The sixties really get things moving in terms of social developments. And at Kässbohrer too, a new era takes off, and production takes a huge step forward, with buses being increasingly used as a popular mode of transport for the masses. In 1963, the new urban bus is introduced at the IAA in Frankfurt as a precursor to the 100 series. The capacious Setra S 125, accommodating 125 passengers, draws plenty of attention. No less than four years later, the 100 series takes over the market.
“Alongside its clear, modern design, a series of spectacular innovations provoke wild enthusiasm.”
History:
- In 1961, the first volume of the most successful French print cartoon series “Astérix le Gaulois” is launched. Over time, a total of 38 albums follow, translated into 107 languages, and the informative Gaul is a favourite in language classes.
- The 32 Edgar Wallace films, which are produced by Horst Wendlandt beginning in 1961, enthral murder mystery fans throughout the decade.
- First a scandal and then a cult object: the mini-skirt, initially perceived as shocking when first presented in British Vogue in 1962, moves on to become a worldwide success, influencing the fashion of a whole generation.
- In October 1962, the Beatles launch their first hit “Love Me Do”, sparking a mass infatuation as never experienced before: Beatlemania.
The S 125 – pioneer of modern bus construction .
As a forerunner to the 100 series, and with its low floor and steps, wide doors, 42 seats and very generous standing room, the S 125 is the first German bus specially conceived to meet the rapidly increasing demands of modern urban transit. This regular-service bus offers two features which are destined to become Setra “specialities”. Firstly, the outwardly swinging door, developed by Kässbohrer, which thanks to its functionality and precision, becomes the most widely used door in touring and regional-service coaches. And secondly, independent wheel suspension with air cushioning, which has more than proven itself since its original presentation in 1955, and has become synonymous with Setra quality.
The 100 series – modularity at its best.
With the modularly built Setra 100 series, Kässbohrer enters a new era in bus and coach construction. The modular construction principle introduced in 1956 with the 10 series laid the foundation stone for this evolution. The 100 series perfects the production system, and its premiere at the 1967 IAA is a true sensation. The series of models ranges from the 8.7-metre-long S 100, through the S 110, S 120, and S 130 types, to the 12-metre-long S 150. The further development of a club model, the eight-row S 80, and an extended version of the S 130, the 14-row S 140, complete the 100 series. Along with its streamlined, modern design, a series of spectacular innovations contribute to making it a true highlight in its time.
The S 130 and S 150 models are introduced with optional air suspension, which becomes a standard feature in 1969, giving passengers an even smoother ride. Yet another comfort enhancement Setra introduces are the standard anti-fog, double glazed side windows. In terms of safety, Setra also makes major strides with a state-of-the-art braking system with hydro-pneumatic dual-circuit brakes, which can be applied with exceptional sensitivity, thanks to their compressed air running plate brake valve.
The S 80 dominates at the smaller end of the range, driving out the S 100. And the flagship of many bus fleets, the S 150, enjoys outstanding turnover, with 2,479 units sold. The entire 100 series, with its 22 models, sells an impressive 12,339 units – the company’s greatest success to date.
Luxurious panoramic views.
Travelling through the Alps in an ultra-comfortable touring coach, while enjoying an uninterrupted panoramic view: this is exactly what the panoramic bus, built in 1967 and based on the S 150, offers with its all-round windows. The coach is inspired by the luxurious Golden Eagle and Silver Eagle panoramic coaches exported to the USA – with a lavatory under the passenger compartment. The S 150 panoramic coach is a luxurious high-decker touring coach, unparalleled in Europe. No other touring coach offers passengers an even remotely comparable travel experience.
