Tesla Semi is not yet operational, but competition is not expected as Mercedes-Benz Trucks announced plans to introduce the eActros LongHaul concept in September.
The 40-ton truck, designed for a preview of the upcoming production model, promises to be smooth and environmentally friendly. The teasers aren’t very bright, but we can see the LED lighting fixtures and the massive triangular star.
The first prototypes are already being tested, and prototypes close to production will be delivered to consumers next year for testing in the real world. If all goes well, serial production will begin in 2024.
Also read: The 2022 Mercedes eActros electric truck has 536 horsepower and a range of 248 miles
Although the company is only releasing a few details at the moment, they have found that the eActros LongHaul will have a set of lithium-iron phosphate batteries that can cover a distance of about 311 miles (500 km) on a single charge. In addition, Mercedes-Benz Trucks showed that the model has the ability to “megawatt charging”, which allows you to deliver a battery pack of 20-80% “in less than 30 minutes.”
Charging times should not be an issue, as the company notes that “in the operational experience of carriers, the main share of long-distance transport does not require more than 311 miles (500 km)” and EU regulations require truck drivers to travel the least. A 45-minute break after a 4.5-hour walk. Thanks to the above-mentioned fast charging technology, eActros LongHaul drivers can be recharged quickly during breaks.
“Electrification of heavy-duty vehicles is the next step in achieving CO2 neutrality,” said Karin Radström, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks. According to him, eActros LongHaul will be “economically viable for our customers” and he is looking forward to introducing the truck this fall.
