Dutch logistics provider Simon Loos plans to expand its battery-electric truck fleet to around 210 units after placing a new order for 75 eActros 600 vehicles from Mercedes-Benz Trucks, the company said.
The latest order builds on a previous purchase of 75 units made in autumn 2024, bringing the total number of eActros 600 trucks secured by the family-owned firm to 150. Some of the vehicles from the initial order have already been delivered, with the remainder expected to enter service before the second batch arrives.
“The initial order of 75 eActros 600 units placed in autumn 2024 has exceeded all expectations,” said Wim Roks, adding that the company began evaluating the trucks in daily operations as soon as the first units were delivered.
Once fully deployed, the electric trucks will increase Simon Loos’ existing fleet of about 60 battery-electric vehicles to approximately 210 units, accounting for roughly 17.5% of its total fleet of 1,200 trucks. The company expects this to represent the largest electric truck fleet in the Netherlands and one of the largest in Europe.
“We want to keep moving forward – not stand still,” Roks said.
The newly ordered trucks will primarily be used for food distribution, with some three-axle variants designated for beverage logistics and network transport. Simon Loos provides logistics services across the Benelux region, serving major retailers including Lidl, Spar, Plus, Albert Heijn and Jumbo.
The company has been gradually electrifying its fleet since 2014 and has worked closely with Daimler Truck on early deployments of electric trucks, including participation in the manufacturer’s “Innovation Fleet” programme.
The eActros 600, unveiled at the IAA Transportation 2024, features a 621 kWh battery designed to deliver a range of at least 500 kilometres. The model also supports high-capacity charging and includes an electric power take-off system to run refrigerated trailers, making it suitable for food logistics operations.
Roks previously described the vehicle as a “game changer” for long-distance electric transport. “Whereas we were previously able to plan around 250 to 300 kilometres per trip with electric power without hesitation, we will be able to cover 500 kilometres with these trucks,” he said. “This means that the journey distance is no longer a planning restriction for our company, and we are taking a big step forward with integrating electric transport.”
Eric Brok, CEO of Daimler Truck Nederland B.V., said the large-scale order reflects growing confidence in electric trucks. “The acceptance of electric transport depends heavily on the practical experience gained by such pioneers,” he said. “Their decision to opt for the eActros 600 on this scale demonstrates just how well proven the vehicle already is in everyday use.”
Mercedes-Benz Trucks said the eActros 600 has become a key contributor to its electric truck sales, helping the company secure a 35% share of the medium and heavy battery-electric truck segment in the EU30 region in 2025.