Daimler Truck recently introduced the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600, the latest addition to its eActros family of electric semi-trailer trucks. With an impressive range, the eActros 600 is currently the version with the highest range. In a recent test, the truck successfully completed a 330-mile haul across the challenging Alps with a gross weight of 80,000 pounds. The eActros 600 can carry a maximum payload of 48,500 pounds using a standard trailer, and its maximum gross weight is 97,000 pounds.
One of the key features of the eActros 600 is its ability to complete a 660-mile trip when charged during a mandatory driver break. This range is comparable to that of current diesel trucks, making it a viable option for long-haul transportation.
Daimler Truck also offers 300 and 400 versions of the eActros which provide around 205 and 250 miles of range, respectively. Comparatively, Tesla’s Semi boasts a 500-mile range with a gross weight of 81,000 pounds.
The eActros 600 is equipped with three individual battery packs, offering a combined capacity of 621 kWh. These batteries use lithium-iron-phosphate cells and can be charged at rates of up to 400 kW using a CCS charger. Similar to the Tesla Semi, the eActros 600’s batteries also support megawatt charging. Daimler Truck claims that the batteries can be charged from 20-80% within approximately 30 minutes using a megawatt charger.
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The eActros 600 is powered by two electric motors that deliver a continuous output of 536 horsepower and a temporary peak of 804 horsepower. These motors are mounted on a single axle and are connected to a 4-speed automatic transmission. The truck features two power take-offs: one mechanical and the other electric (AC or DC).
Daimler Truck ensures that the eActros 600 is designed to meet the same durability requirements as its diesel trucks. Owners can expect the truck to cover 745,000 miles over 10 years without major issues. Even after this period, the company expects the batteries to retain around 80% of their original range.
Safety is a top priority for Daimler Truck, which has equipped the eActros 600 with a range of safety features. The truck boasts sensors that provide a 270-degree view, allowing the driver to have enhanced awareness of their surroundings. These sensors enable electronic driver-assist features such as forward and turning collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and detection of pedestrians and cyclists. The eActros 600 also features lane change assist, which monitors the length of the trailer and can steer the truck back into its original lane if the driver fails to notice a car in the adjacent lane.
Production of the eActros 600 is set to begin in late 2024. In addition to the electric version, Daimler Truck is also testing a prototype of the eActros with a hydrogen fuel cell stack instead of batteries. A recent test saw the hydrogen-electric truck cover an impressive 650 miles with a single fill of hydrogen.
While the eActros is marketed under the Mercedes brand, Daimler Truck has several other commercial vehicle brands in its portfolio. These include Freightliner, Western Star, Fuso, BharatBenz, and Rizon truck brands, as well as multiple bus brands. Some of these brands also offer their own zero-emission offerings, showcasing Daimler Truck’s commitment to a sustainable future in the commercial vehicle industry.
