Mercedes-Benz Urban e-Truck
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its innovative Urban
eTruck at the 2016 IAA International Commercial Vehicle Show in Hannover today.
Powered 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 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 on a single charge. A regenerative braking system has
also been implemented to help top up the batteries under braking.
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.
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.
