The concept is proving to be “right on track”, according to the truck maker, with operator feedback confirming the ability to provide heavy-duty, short distance distribution with zero emissions and quiet operation.
Among the findings, says Mercedes, is that the predicted range of up to 200km is a realistic figure – regardless of payload, route or topography.
Also, the cooling system for the cargo and the air-conditioning system – both electrically operated – functioned perfectly, says the company, not only during this year’s hot summer but also at low winter temperatures.
Drivers are said to be impressed by the continuously available torque across the speed range and particularly also by the vehicle’s quiet operation and the smooth driving experience.
The eActros architecture includes many vehicle-specific components. Two electric motors near the wheel hubs of the rear axle provide the drive, each delivering an output of 126kW and 485Nm maximum torque. The transmission ratio used brings this up to 11,000Nm on each wheel.
The drive power is therefore on par with a conventional truck, says the manufacturer. Lithium-ion batteries have 240 kWh capacity and can be charged completely within two hours, depending on the charging infrastructure.
The first trial customers included Hermes, Camion Transport, Nagel Group and Meyer-Logistik. Body variants include refrigerated and box bodies, to bulk goods and tarpaulin bodies.
Mercedes-Benz says the second phase will see ten more customers each taking delivery of a first-phase eActros for further trials of around one year. Serial production is due to start in 2021.