Mercedes-Benz eActros Trucks, a subsidiary of Daimler Truck, has entered the electric truck arena with the eActros 300 and eActros 400, marking its foray into the world of fully electric heavy-duty vehicles. This new range offers logistics companies and trucking firms an opportunity to integrate electric options into their fleets, contributing to the industry’s shift towards sustainable transportation. Daimler Truck, a parent company that also owns renowned brands like Freightliner, Western Star, and Mitsubishi Fuso, aims to redefine the landscape of commercial electric vehicles.
Powerful Performance Options:
The eActros series presents two formidable powertrain options to meet the demands of heavy-duty, short-radius operations. The eActros 300 boasts a range of 300km, driven by three 105kWh lithium-ion battery packs with a total capacity of 315kWh. It delivers a continuous power output of 443bhp (330kW) and a maximum output of 536bhp (400kW). On the other hand, the eActros 400, equipped with a fourth battery pack for a total capacity of 420kWh, extends its range to 400km. However, adopting electric alternatives comes at a cost, with the eActros potentially being up to three times pricier than its diesel-powered counterpart.
Efficient Charging and Operation:
Recharging the eActros 300 from 20% to 80% is a swift process, taking only 75 minutes with a 160kW DC charger. The eActros 400, with its higher capacity, requires 100 minutes for the same charging range. Daimler Truck recommends maintaining the state of charge between 80% and 90% to enhance battery life, relying on regenerative braking to optimize the driving range. A notable departure from traditional diesel trucks, the eActros features two integrated electric motors in the rear axle, eliminating the need for a propeller shaft and ensuring direct drive for increased efficiency.
Versatility in Design and Safety:
The eActros offers flexibility in its design, available with either two or three axles, accommodating gross vehicle weights of 19 tonnes and 27 tonnes, respectively. Safety remains a top priority, with advanced features including Lane Keeping Assist, Stability Control Assist, and Active Brake Assist 5. Addressing blind spots, the eActros adopts the MirrorCam system, replacing conventional wing mirrors with cameras for enhanced visibility.
Industry Adoption and Global Commitment:
Major logistics player DB Schenker has already embraced the potential of the eActros 300, acquiring 100 units for use in South East Asia. Harald Schmid, CEO of Daimler Commercial Vehicles South East Asia, expressed pride in spearheading the innovation of electric trucks. He emphasized the company’s dedication to sustainable alternatives in response to climate change. Schmid believes that the eActros series will revolutionize the transportation industry and is committed to collaborating with businesses and governments to drive widespread adoption of electric trucks for a more sustainable future.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz eActros series Trucks marks a significant step forward in the electrification of heavy-duty vehicles. With powerful performance, efficient charging, advanced safety features, and a commitment to sustainability, the eActros series is poised to reshape the landscape of commercial transportation in the years to come.