Daimler Truck continues to enhance the capabilities of its electric semi-trailer trucks with the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600. Building upon the success of the 300 and 400 guises, this new version offers even greater range for long-haul transportation. The prototype of the eActros 600 recently completed an impressive 330-mile journey across the Alps, carrying a full load with a gross weight of 80,000 pounds.
The current eActros 300 and 400 models provide approximately 205 and 250 miles of range respectively. In comparison, Tesla’s Semi claims a range of 500 miles for a gross weight of 81,000 pounds. However, with the upcoming eActros 600, Daimler Truck aims to push the boundaries even further. The official world debut of the eActros 600 is scheduled for October 10th, 2023, and production is slated to start in 2024.
To demonstrate its capabilities, engineers embarked on a journey from Stuttgart, Germany, to Bolzano, Italy, crossing Switzerland along the way. The team successfully completed the 330-mile trip, only needing to recharge the truck once. This accomplishment showcases the eActros 600’s potential to cover long distances with a charging stop that aligns with the needs of current diesel trucks.
The eActros 600 prototype is equipped with three individual battery packs, each boasting a capacity surpassing 600 kWh. These batteries employ lithium iron phosphate cells and can be rapidly charged at rates of up to 400 kW using a CCS charger. Similar to the Tesla Semi, the eActros 600 batteries support megawatt charging, enabling swift and efficient recharging times.
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Powering the eActros 600 are two electric motors designed to deliver a continuous output of 536 hp, with a temporary peak of 804 hp. This impressive powertrain ensures that the truck maintains its hauling capabilities while operating on electric power.
Daimler Truck has designed the eActros with the same durability requirements as its diesel trucks. This means that owners can expect the eActros to cover approximately 745,000 miles over a span of 10 years, without encountering significant issues. This commitment to durability reinforces the reliability and long-term viability of electric trucks as a suitable alternative to traditional diesel trucks.
This recent test of the eActros 600 prototype follows closely on the heels of another notable achievement by Daimler Truck. Just one week prior, an eActros prototype equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell stack instead of a battery completed a remarkable 650-mile journey on a single fill. This showcases Daimler Truck’s commitment to exploring various alternative energy solutions for the transportation industry.
While the eActros lineup represents the Mercedes-Benz division of Daimler Truck, the company also oversees other renowned truck brands such as Freightliner, Western Star, Fuso, BharatBenz, and Rizon, in addition to several bus brands. This wide-ranging portfolio enables Daimler Truck to cater to the diverse needs of the global commercial vehicle market.
In conclusion, Daimler Truck’s continuous advancements in the development of electric semi-trailer trucks are evident with the upcoming launch of the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600. This truck offers an impressive range that rivals or surpasses traditional diesel trucks. With the potential to cover substantial distances on a single charge, the eActros 600 demonstrates the viability of electric trucks for long-haul transportation. As Daimler Truck expands its electric truck offerings, it solidifies its position as a leading innovator in the commercial vehicle industry.
