The first Mercedes-Benz medium-duty 100% electric truck – the eActros 300 – has arrived in New Zealand and, following extensive local testing, provides Kiwi operators with a new sustainable transport solution from one of the world’s most reputable truck brands  

After 4,000km of testing on New Zealand roads, the Mercedes-Benz eActros 300 has been fine-tuned for Kiwi operators ready to take their transition from ICE vehicles to the next level. 

With a range of over 300km on a single charge, the eActros 300 is perfectly suited to medium-duty metro and inter-regional work, says Keith Andrews Product Planning manager Matt Gillatt.

“Local testing, fully loaded with a 4.5T payload, achieved a 300km range with 20% battery charge remaining, which places it squarely in the market for metro operators and those driving between large population centres.”  

Four and six-wheelers - Available in 4x2 or 6x2 rigid configurations, the eActros 300 is powered by three lithium-ion battery packs with a combined 336kWh capacity, which produces a peak performance output of 400kW and 330kW continuous output.  

CCS Type 2 DC charging takes a battery from 20% to 80% in 75 minutes with a 150kW charger. Operators can also plan where they’ll charge by using the Mercedes-Benz range prediction tool, which has been tested to New Zealand conditions during local testing and validation. 

Mercedes-Benz engineers have produced a bespoke eAxle for its electric units, which incorporates two electric motors driving through a two-speed transmission.

“The eAxle has fewer moving parts, which makes it highly efficient in operation,” explains Matt. “It also offers the same axle limits as a similar-sized diesel truck and its design enables positioning of the batteries for optimal weight distribution and performance.”  

NZ Post has taken advantage of EECA funding to secure the services of the validation unit and Gillatt says operators shouldn’t hesitate if they want to add an eActros to their fleet. 

“If you’re thinking about moving away from diesel engines, the time is now! The eActros has proven its ability to tackle predictable, inter-regional routes, while providing operators with a safe, comfortable, environmentally friendly and quiet working environment.”