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Mercedes-Benz Trucks has announced an ambitious plan for this summer to conduct the most comprehensive test run yet of its new electric flagship, the eActros 600. The company aims to deploy two near-series prototypes of the battery-electric long-haul truck across over 20 European countries, with each vehicle anticipated to cover more than 13,000 kilometers while towing a total weight of 40 tons. The initiative, named the “eActros 600 European Testing Tour 2024,” will kick off in Frankfurt/Main on June 11, marking a significant step in the truck’s development and testing phase.
Key Highlights:
- Extensive Reach: The tour will traverse more than 20 countries, demonstrating the eActros 600’s capability in various European terrains and climates.
- Robust Testing: Each truck will travel over 13,000 kilometers with a significant load, pushing the limits of electric long-haul capabilities.
- Advanced Technology: Featuring a high-capacity battery of over 600 kilowatt-hours and an efficient in-house developed electric drive axle, the eActros 600 is designed to cover 500 kilometers without the need for recharging.
- Public Charging: The trucks will rely solely on public charging stations, highlighting the need for enhanced infrastructure to support electric trucks.
Dr. Christof Weber, Head of Global Testing at Mercedes-Benz Trucks, emphasizes the truck’s readiness and reliability: “We have put various prototypes of the eActros 600 through their paces over the last few years. Whether in the North of Finland or the South of Spain, the vehicle has long proven what it can do. With series development, we are now on the finishing straight. The ‘eActros 600 European Testing Tour 2024’ enables us to send out a clear message a few months prior to the launch of series production: We are firmly convinced that the two eActros 600 prototypes will master extremely well this enormous feat of strength involving the most extensive test run by Mercedes-Benz Trucks to date.”
Stina Fagerman, Head of Marketing, Sales, and Services at Mercedes-Benz Trucks, notes the strong market interest: “There is very great customer interest in the eActros 600. Since the start of sales at the end of last year, we have already recorded more than 1,000 firm orders, and have reached a four-digit figure with letters of intent, too. This is all the more impressive in light of the fact that the customer demonstrator vehicles will not start out until the second half of the year.”
The tour will also serve an educational purpose, as Fagerman continues, “With the ‘eActros 600 European Testing Tour 2024,’ we are placing our focus on expanding our expertise in the areas of consumption and deployment options of the e-truck under a wide range of conditions, allowing us to provide our customers with even sounder consulting services.”
This unprecedented testing tour not only demonstrates Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ commitment to innovation but also addresses the critical need for a robust infrastructure to support the transition to electric long-haul transportation across Europe.
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