Stuttgart, Germany: Mercedes-Benz Trucks has launched its battery-electric E-Actros for heavy-duty short-haul distribution.
The standard model of the E-Actros is set to roll off the production line in Wörth from autumn 2021.
The E-Actros has three or four battery packs, each with an energy capacity of around 105kWh3. The maximum battery capacity of 420kWh2 enables ranges of up to 400 kilometres.
The technological centrepiece of the electric truck is the drive unit – a rigid electric axle with two integrated electric motors and a two-speed transmission. Both liquid-cooled motors generate a continuous output of 330kW as well as a top performance of 400kW. If the vehicle is driven skillfully recuperation enables the vehicle to recover electrical energy. The energy obtained in this way during braking is fed back into the batteries of the E-Actros and is again made available for use by the drive system.
Highlights
- Range of up to 400 kilometres, battery capacity of around 420kWh2
- Electric axle with two powerful electric motors delivering a top output of 400kW
- Impressive driving dynamics and high driving comfort thanks to a truly responsive two-speed transmission
- Tailor-made turnkey charging solutions thanks to comprehensive advice and service offering.
- Intelligent digital solutions and apps for even greater efficiency and customer benefit
- Equipped as standard with proven, innovative core products such as MirrorCam and Multimedia Cockpit Interactive
- Safety with high added value thanks to standard features such as the Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System, Sideguard Assist S1R and fifth-generation Active Brake Assist emergency braking system
Mercedes says the two integrated electric motors offer great efficiency and a constant delivery of power with high starting torque. “The provision of immediate torque by the electric motors which are coupled with a two-speed transmission ensures powerful acceleration, impressive driving comfort and driving dynamics which enable more relaxed, low-stress driving than a conventional diesel-powered truck. Plus, the low centre of gravity is also favourable when it comes to cornering. In full-load operations, drivers enjoy a pleasant noise reduction of 10dB inside the cab, which roughly corresponds to a halving of perceptible noise volume. Thanks to the low noise level, night-time deliveries are also possible. Contrary to a diesel truck, there are also noticeably fewer vibrations. The E-Actros can be charged with up to 160kW: when connected to a regular 400ADC charging station, the battery packs need little more than one hour to charge from 20 to 80%.”
In order to assist transport companies adopting electric trucks, Mercedes-Benz Trucks provides advice and services, as well as a range of digital solutions to increase utilisation of the vehicle and reduce total cost of ownership. For example, using a customer’s existing route plans, it is possible to establish a highly realistic and meaningful usage profile for electric trucks, Mercedes says.
“This so-called e-consulting doesn’t just include electrification of the depot, but – if the customer desires – also covers questions concerning planning, applying for and implementing everything to do with the charging infrastructure and connection to the electricity network. To this end, Mercedes-Benz Trucks has also established a strategic partnership with Engie and EVBox. Plus, if required, Mercedes-Benz Trucks can additionally provide help with identifying any available public grants for infrastructure and vehicles.”
