Rico Claassen, Key Account Management at Mercedes-Benz Trucks: "Since 2018, we have been using the eActros prototype to gather important insights for the start of series production of the battery-electric truck planned for 2021. With this important milestone in mind, we are testing the eActros together with our future-oriented customers on a daily basis in a wide range of applications as part of the 'innovation fleet'. We are delighted that Inapa is now also one of the customers contributing to the series production of the battery-electric eActros with their experience and feedback."

Numerous new findings
Since 2020, the eActros has been in the second phase of its practical testing as part of the so-called "innovation fleet". The findings from the practical tests include the fact that the eActros' range of around 200 kilometers has proven to be absolutely realistic - regardless of payload, route or topography. The cooling system for charging and the air conditioning system - both of which are electrically operated - functioned without restriction in both extreme heat and wintry conditions. Drivers are very impressed by the consistent availability of torque across the entire speed range. They also report in particular on the quiet driving style and a pleasant, smooth driving experience. What's more, with an anticipatory driving style, electrical energy can be recovered through recuperation, i.e. engine braking. It is then rarely necessary to press the brake pedal.

Carbon dioxide-neutral alternative for urban distribution transport
The eActros is based on the frame of the Mercedes-Benz Actros. In addition, however, the vehicle's architecture is completely geared towards the electric drive and has a high proportion of specific parts. Two electric motors near the wheel hubs of the rear axle form the drive with an output of 126 kW each and a maximum torque of 485 Nm each. After transmission, this results in 11,000 Nm each. An output on a par with that of a conventional truck. Lithium-ion batteries with 240 kWh provide the energy for the eActros. Depending on the available charging power, the batteries can be fully charged within two hours (at 150 kW).

The development and testing of heavy-duty electric trucks in distribution transport is being funded in various parts by the Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMU) and the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) as part of the "Concept ELV²" project.