Draft:Ayco Zafiro
Ayco Zafiro | |
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Overview | |
Type | Bus |
Manufacturer | AYCO (Autopartes y Componentes S.A. de C.V.)[[1]] under licence of Navistar International Mercedes-Benz |
Production | 2006–Present |
Model years | 2007–Present |
Powertrain | |
Engine | Diesel (Navistar_DT_engine, Mercedes-Benz OM906 engine,) |
The Ayco Zafiro is an urban bus manufactured by (AYCO [[2]]) Autopartes y Componentes S.A. de C.V., a Mexican company specializing in public transport vehicles. Since its introduction in 2006 for the 2007 model year, the Zafiro has been a popular choice for urban and interurban transport in Mexico, with various chassis adjustments and improvements over five generations. It is available with International (4700 SCD) or Mercedes-Benz (1019, 1219, 1419) chassis, adapting to different needs and emissions regulations in the country.
Generations and Models Zafiro G1 (2007-2009): The first generation introduced the classic Zafiro design, characterized by straight lines and a robust structure, suitable for difficult urban conditions. This version developed the model standard with a simple and functional design.
Zafiro Sport G1 (2009-2012): The first redesign included modifications to the exterior aesthetics and improvements to the interior, with more ergonomic seats and details that enhance user comfort. This generation integrated improvements to the suspension and brakes, adapting to the demands of longer urban trips.
Zafiro Sport G2 (2012-2014): This model underwent a significant visual redesign, including a new hood and modifications to the front and rear bumpers, as well as the rear wall of the bus. Improvements in fuel efficiency and driver ergonomics enhance the driving and operating experience.
Zafiro Sport G3 (2014-2016): With a more modern and aerodynamic design, this version included advances in emissions technology, aligning with the environmental regulations of the time. Lighter materials were also added in construction to improve fuel efficiency.
Zafiro Sport G4 (2016-2020): This generation focused on greater comfort and safety, incorporating driver assistance technology and improving fuel consumption performance. The aesthetics were renewed with a more modern style and highly durable materials were introduced in the interior.
Zafiro GT (2021-present): The most recent model, the Zafiro GT, includes advanced connectivity technology, improvements in active and passive safety, and a contemporary exterior design that stands out for its clean and aerodynamic lines. With more efficient engine options, the GT has become one of the most sustainable versions of the model.
Technical Features The Zafiro offers engine options that vary depending on the generation and specifications of each model, with engines that include the Navistar DT-466E, MaxxForce MWM 4.8 7.2 Euro IV and OM-366,904 engines with different power and torque configurations. The models feature Eaton-Fuller transmissions in 5.6-speed versions and differentials optimized for urban and interurban journeys.
The bus has established itself in the market thanks to its durability, ease of maintenance and adaptability for urban and short-distance transport. The versatility of Ayco Zafiro has allowed this model to remain competitive and continue to evolve to the present day.
First generation (2007–2009)
[edit]Ayco Zafiro G1 | |
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Overview | |
Type | Bus |
Manufacturer | AYCO [[3]] |
Production | 2006–2009 |
Model years | 2007–2009 |
The first generation of the Ayco Zafiro (2007-2009) was the initial version of the model and was characterized by its robust structure and design focused on durability for urban transport. This generation is offered in various chassis configurations to suit different size and passenger capacity needs, with the following lengths: Chassis Z-840: Length of 8.4 meters, suitable for urban routes with a lower passenger demand. Its compact size allowed for superior maneuverability in narrow streets and in dense urban environments. Chassis Z-930: Length of 9.3 meters, designed for medium-demand routes, offering greater seating capacity without sacrificing too much mobility in urban areas. Chassis Z-1040: Length of 10.4 meters, designed for routes with a high passenger demand, being the longest model in this generation, ideal for busy routes in metropolitan areas. Engines The first generation of the Ayco Zafiro was equipped with a variety of diesel engines designed to offer good performance and durability in urban operating conditions: International DT-466E: A 7.6-liter inline six-cylinder engine, famous for its reliability and high torque, suitable for the Z-930 and Z-1040 chassis configuration. This engine offers a power of between 195 and 250 hp, depending on the calibration, and stands out for its fuel economy and ease of maintenance.
Mercedes-Benz OM-366: A six-cylinder inline engine with a displacement of 6.0 liters. This engine delivers a power of up to 177 hp, being ideal for the most compact versions of the Zafiro, such as the Z-840 and Z-930. Its compact and fuel-efficient design made it popular in this first generation.
Mercedes-Benz OM-904: 4.25-litre inline four-cylinder engine, providing 170 hp and a good balance between power and consumption. This engine was an option in smaller configurations (Z-840), especially suitable for lower load routes.
Mercedes-Benz OM-906: A 6.37-litre inline six-cylinder engine with power of up to 211 hp. This engine was ideal for longer chassis configurations such as the Z-1040, where greater power was needed for high-demand routes.
General Characteristics The first generation of the Ayco Zafiro offers a simple and functional construction, with a straight-line design that allows for easy maintenance. Its internal structure was adapted to different numbers of seats, optimising passenger space and maximising efficiency.
The versatility in engine and chassis made this generation suitable for various urban operating conditions, providing reliable and economical transport.
Second generation (2009–2012)
[edit]Ayco Zafiro Sport G1 | |
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Overview | |
Type | Bus |
Manufacturer | AYCO [[4]] |
Production | 2008–2012 |
Model years | 2009–2012 |
The first generation of the Ayco Zafiro Sport (known as the facelift of the 2007-2009 Zafiro G1) introduced an aesthetic and functional redesign that sought to modernize the appearance and improve the aerodynamics of the model. This facelift included several visible changes and mechanical options that offered greater efficiency and performance.
Aesthetic and Structural Changes Hood: The hood was redesigned with more aerodynamic lines and smooth curves, improving aesthetics and allowing a reduction in air resistance. This also facilitated access to the engine compartment for maintenance, a benefit especially useful in urban operations.
Headlights: New headlights with a more angular and modern design were incorporated, providing better illumination and increasing nighttime visibility. The headlights also improved passive safety, by integrating position lights and better light dispersion in low visibility conditions.
Rear Wall: The rear wall was redesigned to give the bus a more contemporary look. This change included new taillights and a more efficient arrangement of components in the rear area, improving both aesthetics and functionality.
Rear Bumper: The rear bumper was updated with a more enveloping shape, made of impact-resistant materials and designed to reduce damage in minor collisions, thereby reducing maintenance costs.
Engine Options In this version of the Zafiro Sport, the 4700 SCD chassis offered new MaxxForce engine options from the MWM family, designed to meet Euro IV emissions standards, suitable for urban environments where greater efficiency and lower emissions were required: MaxxForce. MWM 4.8: An inline four-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 4.8 liters. This engine produces a power of around 180 HP at 2200 RPM, with a torque of 680 lb-ft. Its compact size and low fuel consumption made it ideal for short-distance urban routes and more compact chassis.
MaxxForce MWM 7.2: This 7.2-liter, inline six-cylinder engine delivers 225 HP at 2200 RPM and 850 lb-ft of torque. Ideal for longer chassis configurations on the Zafiro Sport, it would support higher passenger loads on high-demand routes while maintaining a good balance between power and fuel efficiency.
General Features The first generation of the Ayco Zafiro Sport with facelift represented a significant evolution compared to the original model. Design changes offered a more modern and aerodynamic look, while MaxxForce MWM engine options provided improvements in performance and environmental efficiency. This version of the Zafiro Sport was ideal for urban transport operators looking for a combination of updated aesthetics, durability and compliance with emissions standards.
Third generation (2012–2014)
[edit]Ayco Zafiro Sport G2 | |
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Overview | |
Type | Bus |
Manufacturer | AYCO [[5]] |
Production | 2011–2014 |
Model years | 2012–2014 |
The second generation of the Ayco Zafiro Sport (2012-2014), known as the Zafiro Sport G2, was a significant update of the Zafiro Sport G1 version (2009-2012), offering an exterior redesign and technological improvements to comply with environmental regulations. This facelift introduced modifications to the design of the bonnet and the front and rear bumpers, improving both the aesthetics and aerodynamics of the vehicle. The Zafiro Sport G2 was presented as a more modern and efficient option, adapted to the demands of the time in terms of fuel economy and emissions reduction.
Technical Features and Engine Options The second generation of the Zafiro Sport includes new MaxxForce MWM technology engines with Euro IV emission standards, ideal for complying with stricter environmental regulations and improving fuel consumption performance. These engine options are adapted to the 4700 SCD chassis, offering versatility and power for urban transport needs: MaxxForce MWM 4.8 Euro IV: This engine, with an inline four-cylinder configuration and a displacement of 4.8 liters, delivers a power of 180 HP at 2,200 RPM and a torque of 680 lb-ft. It is an ideal option for lower load routes and urban distances, providing a good combination of power and efficiency.
MaxxForce MWM 7.2 Euro IV: This version, with an inline six-cylinder engine and displacement of 7.2 liters, provides a power of 225 HP at 2,200 RPM and a torque of 850 lb-ft. It is suitable for higher demand applications on urban and interurban routes, where greater passenger capacity and resistance under high load conditions are required.
Design and Improvements The redesigned hood gave the Zafiro Sport G2 a more modern and aerodynamic appearance, which not only contributed to the visual appeal but also improved fuel efficiency by reducing wind resistance. Changes to the front and rear bumpers, along with a revised rear wall, improved accessibility and ease of maintenance. In addition, the second generation of the Zafiro Sport integrated improvements to the ventilation and insulation system, offering a more comfortable environment for passengers.
Versatility and Adaptability With the 4700 SCD chassis and MaxxForce engine options, the Zafiro Sport G2 was able to adapt to a wide variety of operating conditions, providing an efficient and reliable solution for public transport. This generation maintained the focus on operating economy and durability, establishing itself as an attractive option for urban and short-distance fleets requiring reliable transportation, with a reduction in maintenance costs and fuel consumption.