This summer, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is taking its electric long-hauler eActros 600 on the manufacturer’s longest test run yet. The battery-electric truck will travel over 13,000 km through more than 20 European countries to gather real-world data and to send a message that electric long-haul transport is possible today.

As Mercedes-Benz Trucks gears up for series production of the eActros 600 at the end of 2024, it is checking more and more boxes to deliver a fully-developed product. Last month, during testing, the battery-electric truck achieved over 1 megawatt (1,000 kilowatts) of charging power through the Megawatt Charging System (MCS). Now, it’s time to prove itself in the real world.

eActros 600 European Testing Tour 2024

Mercedes-Benz Trucks is taking two near-series prototypes on a European tour through more than 20 countries. Each truck aims to complete over 13,000 km with a total weight of 40 tons. To make things even more relevant to customers, only public charging points will be used—or that is the intention, at least.

This tour aims to gather real-world consumption data from different topographies and climate areas to better inform international customers. Mercedes claims a range of over 500 km between charges, with a daily driving range of over 1,000 km if drivers can charge during mandatory stops.

The eActros 600 uses three battery packs of 207 kWh, with a total capacity of 621 kWh. Mercedes-Benz Trucks promises that the batteries will keep over 80% of their capacity after 1.2 million kilometers and ten years of use.

The electric rear axle is powered by two 800-volt electric motors, which generate a continuous output of 400 kW (544 hp) with a peak power output of 600 kW (816 hp). In a 44-ton configuration, the electric truck should be able to carry around 22 tons with a standard semitrailer.

Over 1,000 orders

The manufacturer says it has already recorded over 1,000 orders for the eActros 600, with “a four-digit figure with letters of intent, too”, according to Stina Fagerman, Head of Marketing, Sales and Services at Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

And, of course, this European testing tour also aims to remind the political powers that a better charging infrastructure is needed for mass adoption of electric road transport. “We intend to inform decision-makers in politics and the energy sector as well as the general public about the possibilities provided by battery-electric drives in the long-haul segment, and in this way further boost the momentum in building up the necessary infrastructure.”