Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its innovative Urban eTruck at the 2016 IAA International Commercial Vehicle Show in Hannover (22 to 29 September 2016).
Powered solely by electricity, the Urban eTruck provides a glimpse forward into the future of the truck industry, particularly in large cities where vehicles with internal combustion engines may soon be banned or heavily restricted.
Power for the eTruck comes courtesy of one high-speed asynchronous three-phase electric motor on each side. All up, the two motors deliver 250 kW (339 hp) and more importantly, 1000 Nm (737 lb-ft) of torque. The battery packs takes the form of three individual lithium-ion modules combining for a total capacity of 212 kWh. This enables the vehicle to travel up to 200 km (124 miles) on a single charge. A regenerative braking system has also been implemented to help top up the batteries under braking.
Interestingly, the eTruck has been designed as a modular vehicle meaning it can be installed with a smaller battery pack if a customer requires a shorter range. Alternatively, an additional battery pack can be fitted when necessary.
As with other recent Mercedes products, the Urban eTruck focuses heavily on advanced technologies. In the cabin, it includes a central 12.3 inch display showcasing all vital vehicle information as well as providing navigation services, including three-dimensional maps. A prominent battery capacity display is also present in the upper section of the main screen, ensuring the driver always knows how many miles are left in the truck’s battery pack.
Three driving modes for the truck are present. The first, dubbed ‘auto’, regulates energy consumption so the vehicle can complete a specific journey without running out of juice. The second mode is dubbed ‘agile’ and provides the eTruck with maximum power when needed, such as driving in hilly areas. Finally is the ‘eco’ mode, which reduces the amount of torque produced by the electric motors to maximize range.
Also found within the Mercedes-Benz Urban eTruck is the latest development of the firm’s FleetBoard system. It is an advanced telematics system which helps integrate the driver, the truck and the dispatcher into a single unit, starting with flexible scheduling and precise planning of delivery routes.
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