Ready, Set, Charge

Following the market launch of the eActros 300 and 400 production models in 2021, Mercedes-Benz Trucks continues to push ahead with the introduction of further battery-electric models with a production prime mover version expected in 2023 to join the rigid models already available including the eEconic refuse vehicle range.

Additionally, the battery-electric eActros LongHaul prime mover was unveiled at the IAA Transportation show in Hanover as a ‘design theme’ of the series-production vehicle planned to be available in at least the European market some time in 2024.

On a single battery charge the eActros LongHaul will have a range of around 500 kilometres which will make it suitable for many European applications and even some in Australia.

The e-truck will enable high-performance “megawatt” charging which can take the battery charge from 20 per cent to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes.

The move towards electric prime movers and rigid/trailer applications is also likely to be accelerated with the use of electrified trailers that can significantly increase the driving range of electric trucks.

Technology company Trailer Dynamics has developed an “eTrailer” in conjunction with trailer manufacturer Krone.

At the core of the concept is an e-axle used in the trailer with its own batteries, which contributes additional motive power.

Depending on the battery capacity of the eTrailer, ranges of more than 800 kilometres on one battery charge are expected to be possible when used with the series-production version of the eActros LongHaul.

Meanwhile, as we wait for the production LongHaul, the current eActros 300 is now available with an electric power take-off solution to enable the drive for hydraulic pumps in applications such as hook loaders and tippers. The opportunity to drive the eActros 300 on the streets of Hanover is too good to pass up.

Even the head of Daimler Trucks Martin Daum enthusiastically avails himself to a quick steer, along with the assembled global truck media and select customers.

The Mercedes Benz eActros 300 is driven by an electric drive axle with two integrated electric motors and a two-speed transmission. The two motors are mounted centrally on the rear axle and generate a continuous output of 330 kW (440hp in the old money) and a peak output of 400 kW (536hp).

The direct torque delivery of the electric motors in conjunction with the two-speed transmission provides some impressive acceleration. Three battery packs are installed on the test truck, each with an installed capacity of 112 kW and provide a driving range of up to 220 kilometres. The electric motors are liquid cooled as are the batteries.

The cooling is a function of Mercedes-Benz’s thermal management system which enhances component reliability and prolongs battery life. The batteries consist of either three (eActros 300) or four battery packs (eActros 400). With four battery packs, the eActros 400 has a range of up to 400 kilometres. Mercedes-Benz has committed to lithium-ion phosphate cell technology (LFP) for its batteries to deliver more usable energy and a longer service life.

Getting behind the wheel of an electric vehicle encourages the driver to actively scan the road and traffic ahead, in order to temper the need for harsh braking or acceleration.

This ultimately results in less drain on the batteries, along with the opportunity to recuperate some electrical charge as the truck decelerates.

As expected, once out of the Daimler Trucks’ hall of the Hanover exhibition centre, the eActros is whisper quiet, with the only discernible noise identified as the electric-driven air compressor and the air conditioner fan. In terms of alternative power for commercial vehicles, Europe is already far ahead of Australia in its progress and expectations.

Due to its quiet operation, the eActros safety equipment includes an external Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System in accordance with European legal requirements.

The cab interior of the eActros is much the same as the familiar one found on local diesel-powered models of the Actros, other than the centre screen on the dash showing an animated driveline which displays the changes between Power and Recharge modes, as well as predicted remaining operational range.

The eActros is equipped with the same electronic parking brake as the diesel models and most other controls are essentially the same. Three power modes are available and are selected by a button on the end of right-hand steering column stalk: Range, Economy and Power Plus Boost.

To initiate the latter after it has been selected, the driver operates a detent switch by pressing the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor which produces a surprising increase in the rate of acceleration.

The boost effect is likened to a lesser version of the Drag Reduction System (DSS) used by Formula 1 cars to enable driver-initiated passing.

Predictably, over-enthusiastic use is an additional drain on the battery capacity and reduces the available range, but we are repeatedly tempted to put the pedal to the metal especially when leaving some sporty looking European sedans in our wake at traffic lights. Instead of an engine or exhaust braking system usually found on diesel engine trucks, the eActros is equipped with an electric retarder which provides braking assistance by reversing the polarities of the electric motors and switching them to alternator mode.

There are three levels of braking power selected via the column stalk operating wand which can be left in position to suit the current gross weight and road conditions. Leaving the retarder in standby assists in making the most of every opportunity to recharge the batteries, even if only for seconds at a time.

In the full retard position the eActros decelerates as if the service brakes have been applied and we temper the effect by switching back to the intermediate level to enable a smoother drive while on city streets.

The eActros features the fifth-generation Active Brake Assist with pedestrian detection as well as a “turning assistant” which uses the second-generation MirrorCam display screens mounted to the inside of the A pillars.

The exterior mounting arms for the MirrorCam are now much shorter than the originals which should significantly decrease the chance of damage caused by impacting branches, building structures or other vehicles.

Other applications of the eActros displayed at IAA Transportation 2022 included a hook loader and a skip loader equipped with the all-in-one solution eWorX system which has been developed by ZF. The aim is to efficiently electrify PTOs for operating hydraulic work equipment such as skip loaders, hook loaders, cranes or lifting platforms.

The advantages of CO2-neutrality and greatly-reduced noise generation will appeal to applications intended for inner city and residential situations. The batteries of the eActros provides the ZF system with electrical energy via a DC interface. In turn, the eWorX electric motor drives the hydraulic pump for the hook loader or skip loader.

A mechanical connection to the axle mounted traction motors is therefore not necessary and the system is also suitable for applications such as powering refrigeration units.

In its quest to become more than a vehicle manufacturer, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is offering customers a holistic transport solution consisting of vehicle technology, consulting, charging infrastructure and tailor-made fleet management services.

“We are continuously expanding our portfolio of battery-electric trucks,” says Karin Rådström, CEO Mercedes-Benz Trucks. “Our focus is on offering clear advantages to our customers. Therefore, our electric trucks are specifically designed for e-mobility, giving them better drivability, energy efficiency and durability.”

As a way to provide public charging for long haul transport, Daimler Trucks, Traton Group and Volvo Group formed a joint venture in July 2022 with plans to install and operate high-performance charge points for battery-powered heavy-duty trucks and coaches across Europe.

The charging network initiated by the three parties will be open and accessible to all heavy commercial vehicles in Europe, regardless of brand. Mercedes-Benz continues to explore the hydrogen fuel cell alternative to battery-electric trucks.

Irrespective of drive technology, every investment in a commercial vehicle must pay off for transport companies and the expanded network of charging facilities is a key element of providing acceptable levels of total ownership costs.