This heavy electric truck is poised to replace the diesel-powered counterparts and setting new standards for sustainability, efficiency, and design. Here’s a closer look at the eActros 600 and its potential impact.
Impressive Battery Capabilities
The eActros 600 boasts a gross combination weight of up to 44 tonnes, delivering a payload of around 22 tonnes when paired with a standard trailer.
At the core of its performance lies an electric axle with two electric motors and a unique four-speed gearbox. Designed for heavy long-distance transport, the system operates at 800 volts, generating a continuous power of 400 kW with a peak power of 600 kW. This sets it apart from the existing eActros 300/400 models already in the market, which feature two electric motors with a two-speed transmission.
The eActros 600 packs a powerful punch with a 621 kWh gross LFP battery, split into three packs, and a total battery weight of 4.5 tonnes. The extended four-metre wheelbase accommodates these battery packs, contributing to the vehicle’s unique tractor unit length of 6.23 metres.
Charging this electric giant is no problem, thanks to its capability of CCS charging of up to 400 kW. Moreover, it is designed to adapt to megawatt charging (MCS) later. The eActros 600 comes pre-installed with support technology for MCS, ensuring it’s ready to embrace the future of charging.
Amazing Range and Efficiency
According to Daimler, the eActros 600 boasts an impressive range of approximately 500 kilometres. In practice, with proper planning of statutory rest times and charging, the truck can handle over 1000 kilometres in a single day. According to Mercedes trucks, around 60% of all truck routes are less than 500 kilometres per day, making the 500 kilometre range sufficient for most drivers. Furthermore, with the anticipated introduction of megawatt charging, the truck will be able to charge from 20% to 80% in roughly 30 minutes.
Profitability and Sustainability
Daimler Truck envisions the eActros 600 replacing diesel counterparts and establishing new benchmarks in profitability for fleet operators. While the eActros 600 might cost around 2 to 2.5 times more than its diesel equivalent, its operational savings make it a viable investment, which can pay off in just five years, or in roughly 60,000 miles. Importantly, it is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by an impressive 80% over its entire lifecycle when compared to diesel trucks.
Charging Infrastructure Challenges
One challenge that hampers the transition from diesel to electric trucks is the lack of adequate charging infrastructure. For many users, especially those with routes under 500 kilometres, charging at depots and loading/unloading points is sufficient. However, for other long-distance applications, expansion of public charging infrastructure is paramount to make electric trucks a viable choice across Europe.
Sweden’s government is actively promoting the establishment of charging infrastructure for heavy trucks, encouraging the electrification of fleets. Companies like Nimbnet are participating in the movement to set up charging stations across the country. At this time, Nimbnet has a charging station in Gotland Ring and has more planned stations in Nordmaling, Sundsvall, and Gothenburg.
In essence, the eActros 600 is not just a remarkable truck; it symbolises the electrification movement. Karin Rådström, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks, describes it as “the transformation of road freight transport towards CO2-neutrality.” With its innovative technology and impressive efficiency, the eActros 600 is making electromobility an even more attractive choice for fleet operators and bringing us closer to a greener, more sustainable future.
Photo source: https://media.daimlertruck.com/marsMediaSite/ko/en/52428265