Mercedes-Benz just introduced the 2022 eActros electric truck for short-range distribution haulage in urban areas.
The concept was first revealed at the IAA 2016 for Commercial Vehicles in Hanover, and since 2018, numerous eActros trucks have been functionally tested in partnership with clients across Europe. Since then, Mercedes modified a few of the prototype’s aspects, such as range, driving power, and safety, based on feedback received from the eActros Innovation Fleet after completing over 300,000 miles during trials.
“We have to acknowledge that transport is a part of the problem when it comes to climate change. At the same time, we can and we will be part of the solution. We start with our eActros. The eActros and its dedicated services are a big step for Mercedes-Benz Trucks and for our customers towards CO2-neutral transport,” said Karin Rådström, Member of the Board of Management at Daimler Truck AG and responsible for Mercedes-Benz Trucks.
The 2022 eActros heavy-duty truck receives all its power from dual liquid-cooled electric motors attached to the rear axle, paired with a two-speed transmission. Both motors combined can produce nearly 442 horsepower but can go all the way up to 536 horses on full throttle.
Moreover, Mercedes offers three- or four-battery pack configurations, each pack with a capacity of 105 kWh, summing up to a total of 315 kWh or 420 kWh. With the latter, the automaker claims a range of about 248 miles, while the former should get you about 186 miles. Also, the smaller battery pack can go from 20 to 80 percent in just over an hour using a 160 kW power supply connected to a 400A DC adapter.
Mercedes-Benz plays a lot on safety, ensuring that the 2022 eActros is on par with all safety standards, just like the regular diesel-powered Actros. It has incorporated plenty of features keeping in mind the driver’s safety, including MirrorCam, Sideguard Assist S1R, and the fifth-generation Active Brake Assist with pedestrian detection. But that’s not all—the chassis is also designed to isolate the batteries during a crash, and the driver can cut off the high voltage supply if anything goes wrong.
Mercedes plans to offer its entire European semi-truck fleet an electric powertrain by 2039. It will manufacture the eActros at its largest truck assembly facility in Wörth am Rhein in Germany, starting autumn this year. As of now, the 2022 eActros will be available in Europe, but no details have been shared regarding the pricing yet. Luckily, American customers need not worry as Mercedes-Benz already said the launch in other markets would follow soon.
