Neoplan

Neoplan Bus GmbH is a German bus and coach manufacturer. The company is now a subsidary of Neoman Bus GmbH, which itself is a part of MAN Nutzfahrzeuge AG. The company is particularly known for its futuristic designs.

History

The company was founded by Gottlob Auwärter in Stuttgart in 1935, and manufactured bodywork for bus and truck chassis. From the beginning the design of the buses produced was stylistic. After World War II an all-steel body design was developed, a rarity at that time. The company became known for its technical expertise, and by 1953 had moved away from manufacturing buses on truck chassis to a partial monocoque design with a steel tube skeleton providing the structural support, enhanced by welded side panels. The engine was moved to the rear, and the running gear and body functioned as one. In 1957 air suspension was made available, greatly improving the ride of the bus for the passenger.

In 1961 a new design, the Hamburg, was unveiled at the Geneva Salon and caused a sensation in the industry. At a time when most coaches were rounded, bulbous or streamlined, the new design had clear-cut lines with edges and large windows. Developed by the founder's eldest son Albrecht and another student, Swiss Bob Lee, as part of their dissertation at Hamburg University, the design also allowed every passenger to regulate fresh air supply through a nozzle from two air ducts.

Both Albrecht and Lee joined Neoplan after university. Albrect took over management of the company in 1965. Bob Lee became head of Engineering and Design.

In 1964 the founder's second son, Konrad, developed a double-deck design for a service bus as part of his dissertation. The design had extremely low weight and could carry over 100 passengers. It also featured a low-frame front axle with forward-mounted steering gear that permitted a low flat floor. The double-deck principle was applied to coach design creating a revolutionary high-capacity comfortable vehicle for touring. This vehicle was known as the Skyliner, and created an image for the company that differentiated the Neoplan brand from its competitors and created interest in its products across Europe.