True trucking test for new Mercedes-Benz Actros 27 June 2011

Mercedes-Benz's new Actros tractor unit, debuted in Berlin last week, spent 2,600 hours in the wind tunnel, endured 50,000,000km of rig-based engine testing and covered 20,000,000km in real-life operation.

Why? The German trucks giant says this time around its taken a different approach, and that all new premium trucks are now designed for long-distance – instead of that role being split between Actros and the Axor.

Making the point, there are now seven spacious cabs in the range, five of which have a flat floor. Additionally, the working and living areas are now separated throughout with a new cockpit that is both functional and attractive.

As for the power plant, you're looking at a new, high-torque, clean (Euro 6) and economical six-cylinder in-line engine, with additional torque reserves. And there's a new frame and a dynamic chassis, as well as enhancements around safety.

Mercedes claims this is the first and, to date, only truck developed from the ground up to comply with the Euro 6 emissions standard.

The figures certainly stack up: fuel consumption in the optional Euro 5 variant is around 6% better than for the Actros' predecessor. And even the Euro 6 version boasts around 3% fuel advantage, combined with a reduction in AdBlue consumption of around 40%.

Additionally, maintenance and repair costs are claimed to be even lower than before, as evidenced by the low-cost service contracts being offered.

And as for the bottom line, the Actros model in each of the emissions categories is claimed to offer lower overall costs than its competitors.

Author
John Challen

Related Companies
Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd

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