KAMAZ has unveiled Vega, a compact city shuttle with an announced passenger capacity of 65. The information first came from a Socialbites.ca reporter covering the Comtrans 2023 exhibition. Vega stands out as a purpose-built urban transport solution aimed at high-density routes and short-haul trips, where maneuverability and efficient passenger flow are crucial. The presentation suggested Vega could serve busy city corridors while keeping operating costs in check, a priority for fleets evaluating next-generation municipal buses.
The cabin features a total of 19 fixed seats along with 2 foldable seats, designed to balance seating density with passenger comfort during peak periods. The bus measures 8500 millimeters in length, and its curb weight ranges from 4.9 to 5.5 tons depending on configurations and equipment. A modular approach to the interior allows operators to tailor seating layouts and luggage accommodations to specific routes or events. Vega is powered by an inline four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with a displacement of 3.8 liters, delivering 154 horsepower. A fuel tank with a capacity of 140 liters supports typical urban service cycles, reducing the need for frequent refueling on longer-city routes. The drive train uses a six-speed manual transmission, reflecting a design choice aligned with durability and ease of maintenance in fleets that prioritize proven technology and straightforward service intervals. The top speed is capped at 110 kilometers per hour, which is more than adequate for city and regional operations while maintaining safe handling on varied road conditions. Overclocking specifications were not disclosed by the manufacturer, suggesting Vega is configured with a conservative, reliability-first performance envelope for daily city service.
Standard features in Vega emphasize operator comfort and passenger safety. The bus includes air conditioning for climate control, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors to aid visibility in urban traffic, and an air-suspended driver’s seat to improve ride quality during repeated starts and stops. The vehicle also comes with an anti-lock braking system to help maintain control in emergency braking scenarios. Two saloon doors enable efficient passenger loading and unloading, which is critical for maintaining schedule adherence on routes with frequent stops. For fleets seeking additional security and visibility, optional add-ons include a video surveillance system, a tachograph to monitor driving hours, double glazing for improved acoustics and climate efficiency, and an electronic route indicator to assist drivers with efficient wayfinding and on-time performance. These optional features align Vega with modern municipal bus standards that prioritize safety, regulatory compliance, and data-driven fleet management.
In related developments, industry observers noted that a separate model, the GAZ Citymax 12 bus, recently appeared in Moscow sporting a new eight-liter engine. This comparison underscores the ongoing diversification in the market for compact, city-focused buses, with manufacturers exploring alternative powertrains and configurations to meet varied regional requirements, regulatory environments, and operating budgets. Vega’s introduction contributes to the broader trend of urban buses designed to maximize passenger throughput while keeping maintenance and total cost of ownership attractive for city operators, transit authorities, and private fleets alike. The conversation around Vega at Comtrans 2023 highlighted the balance between familiar mechanicals and modern amenities that can support reliable service in busy urban corridors without compromising safety or driver ergonomics. These characteristics may influence procurement decisions by Canadian and American fleets seeking practical, scalable solutions for dense metropolitan routes and suburban express services alike. The ongoing dialogue in the market continues to emphasize durability, ease of service, and the capacity to adapt interiors to shifting demand on urban routes, where every seating choice and equipment option can impact daily performance and overall reliability.