First fridge-bodied eActros launched in UK
Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK has partnered with truck body-builder Solomon Commercials to launch Britain’s first fridge-bodied eActros electric truck
The 19-tonne GVW eActros, which made was shown at the ITT Hub event, is a fully operational vehicle which is now being offered for demonstrations to operators.
Based on a 4×2 eActros 300, the truck is fitted with three battery packs, and a capacity of 336kWh, creating a range up to 205 miles. The batteries can be recharged to 80% in 75 minutes using a 400A 160kW charger.
Designed from the group up as an electric truck, the eActros has twin electric motors located in the rear eAxle. Chassis space is freed from not needing a prop shaft, allowing batteries to be set across the width of the vehicle.
The motors drive through a special transmission with two forward and two reverse gears, allowing the truck to cruise at up to 55 mph. As the body is designed to maximise aerodynamic efficiency, range is maximised. Refrigeration is controlled by a Carrier TRS Syberia overcab chiller unit and Carrier Datacold temperature monitoring system.
Launched last year, the eActros is also available as a 6×2 chassis, with 27-tonne GVW and a body-and-payload allowance of 16.6 tonnes, and as an eActros 400 with four batteries allowing up to 249 miles of range. Deliveries of the first vehicles to UK customers are now underway.
Mercedes-Benz Trucks Head of Future Sustainability, James Venables, said: “The eActros is a truck for a new era, and by launching this refrigerated demonstrator we’re showing that it’s ready to work in real-life applications – anyone interested in trialling this exciting vehicle should contact their Mercedes-Benz Dealer as soon as possible.
“We’re here to support operators on the journey towards CO2-neutral transport too, though. All our Dealers are fully qualified and eTruck-ready, while our team of eConsultants can provide valuable advice and assistance on all aspects of electric truck operation, from charging infrastructure, to a range of digital services to increase utilisation and optimise the total cost of ownership.”
Solomon Commercials Managing Director Anthony Clegg, added: “The road to net zero is no longer an optional extra; it’s a certainty, and more and more customers are actively looking to introduce carbon-neutral policies and to minimise the impact of their vehicles on the environment.
“We’re proud to work with manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, helping customers transition to zero-emissions transport. Adopting these vehicles is certainly picking up pace, particularly with the Government wanting to reach stringent emissions targets and create clean-air cities. Electric vehicles will play an important role in ensuring this is achieved.”
Image courtesy of Mercedes Benz Trucks
