Daimler Truck has revealed its flagship electric vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600, at the IAA Transportation 2024 trade show in Hanover. The lorry boasts a range of 500 kilometres on a single charge.
The eActros 600, equipped with a 600 kWh battery, is designed for long-haul transport and has the capability to travel more than 1,000 kilometres per day with intermediate charging during legally required driver breaks. The truck’s advanced electric drive axle, developed in-house, ensures efficient energy use, allowing it to surpass the standard range under ideal conditions.
In preparation for its market launch, Daimler Truck conducted a seven-week test with two near-production prototypes of the eActros 600, which covered over 15,000 kilometres across 22 European countries. The test focused on proving the lorry’s energy efficiency and real-world usability. Both vehicles carried the full 40-ton gross combination mass and charged solely at public charging stations, further demonstrating the feasibility of electric haulage using existing infrastructure.
The trucks achieved an average energy consumption of 103 kWh per 100 kilometres, which, when compared to diesel, is equivalent to around 10 litres per 100 kilometres. In certain stages, the HGV was able to recover energy equivalent to 25% of the total power consumed, thanks to its advanced regenerative braking system. Depending on the terrain and weather conditions, energy consumption ranged from 85 kWh per 100 kilometres on downhill routes to 140 kWh per 100 kilometres in more challenging conditions, such as unsealed roads and cold temperatures as low as 7°C.
Charging infrastructure and political call to action
As part of its unveiling, Daimler Truck emphasised the need for a robust public charging infrastructure to support the widespread adoption of electric trucks. During the Daimler Truck Media Night, the eActros 600 was driven from Hanover to Berlin and back in a nocturnal demonstration to send a clear message to political leaders in Berlin and Brussels: the vehicles are ready, but the infrastructure must follow.
“Our eActros 600 is a strong alternative to a diesel truck… Now it is imperative for governments, the energy sector, and industry to act together to drive forward the expansion of public charging infrastructure,” stated Karin Rådström, Daimler Truck’s newly appointed CEO.
Daimler Truck has already secured over 2,000 orders for the eActros 600, with production scheduled to begin at the Mercedes-Benz Wörth plant in November. Components for the truck’s electric drivetrain will be sourced from Daimler’s other plants in Mannheim, Kassel, and Gaggenau. The company expects to deliver the first vehicles to customers by the end of 2024.
TruckCharge and digital innovations
To support its electric vehicles, Daimler Truck is launching the TruckCharge brand, offering solutions related to charging infrastructure and fleet management. Services under TruckCharge include consulting on e-mobility, infrastructure financing, and Fleetboard Charge Management, which provides operators with a comprehensive overview of their electric truck fleets.
Daimler also outlined its future vision for software-defined vehicles, which will allow for over-the-air updates and advanced safety features. This digital transformation will help improve driver comfort, vehicle safety, and operational efficiency.
FUSO showcases eCanter electric trucks
FUSO, a subsidiary of Daimler Truck, has also presented its Next Generation eCanter, a battery-electric light-duty truck, in various body configurations and equipped with the latest safety and comfort features.
Under the slogan “The Next Generation eCanter. Makes e Work,” FUSO has been showcasing two key variants of the all-electric truck.
The 8.55-ton eCanter, equipped with a municipal waste collection body designed by KAOUSSIS, is intended for urban waste collection in densely populated European cities. It boasts manoeuvrability, payload efficiency, and excellent all-round visibility—features that make it particularly suited for narrow city streets.
Another variant on display is an 8.55-ton eCanter with a box body. This model features advanced safety and comfort technologies, such as Active Brake Assist 6, Blind Spot Information System (BSIS), Intelligent Speed Assist, and Attention Assist, making it a viable option for logistics companies and fleet operators.
The box-body version on display offers impressive logistics capabilities, including space for up to 15 Euro pallets. Thanks to its 123.9 kWh battery, it boasts a range of 200 kilometres. Additionally, the vehicle features fast-charging capabilities, reaching 80% charge in just 40 minutes using DC charging or a full charge in six hours with AC charging.