Mercedes-Benz Trucks has tested the readiness of its eActros LongHaul and eActros 300 electric trucks in extreme conditions at temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius in Rovaniemi, northern Finland. Development engineers examined all the functions and systems of the vehicles in practical use during the trip. They evaluated aspects such as support when changing lanes, active lane guidance and the comfort of the driver’s seat.
The experts paid particular attention to the battery properties and the electric drivetrain of the eActros LongHaul and eActros 300 Tractor in adverse weather conditions. They tested the starting properties and drive components’ protection from low temperatures, software and interfaces. In addition, thermal and energy management systems were subjected to intensive testing to ensure that both the drivetrain and driver’s cab are temperature-controlled correctly and energy-efficiently, even at low temperatures.
The eActros LongHaul heats the cab faster than a diesel truck thanks to its smaller heating circuit with high output. However, pre-conditioning of the electric truck at a charging station is advisable since the energy for this is taken from the batteries installed in the vehicle and therefore reduces the range. After pre-conditioning, the eActros LongHaul loses less range even in extremely low temperatures.
Numerous tests were conducted on driving and braking properties on surfaces with different levels of grip. The impact of slush on the effectiveness of driver assistance systems was also tested, as well as the ability of the Trailer Stability Assistant to reduce the risk of tractor-trailers skidding during cornering or evasive maneuvers on winter roads.
The eActros 300 model variant as a tractor unit can pull all common European semitrailers, taking into account the maximum permissible overall vehicle combination length. The electric truck is based on the same technology as the eActros 300/400 and is equipped with three battery packs, each with 112 kWh of installed battery capacity, allowing for a range of up to 220 kilometers on a single battery charge. Series production is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2023.
See also: Up Close with Mercedes-Benz eActros LongHaul specifications
The eActros LongHaul, set to be ready for series production in 2024, boasts a range of around 500 kilometers on a single battery charge and will enable high-performance charging. Batteries with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cell technology are used in the eActros LongHaul, which are characterized by a long service life and more usable energy. Overall, Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ tests in Rovaniemi have proven the reliability and efficiency of its electric trucks, even in extreme weather conditions.
