Mercedes-Benz is about to extend its family of trucks with a new member, the new Mercedes-Benz Antos– a model series designed specifically for heavy-duty short-radius distribution transport use.

The vehicles have already been showing their mettle, albeit still in camouflaged guise, but the covers will come off in time for the Commercial Vehicle IAA in September and the start of sales.

The general styling and design idiom of the Mercedes-Benz Antos reveals its relationship with the Mercedes-Benz Actros, but the very different requirements for the cab gives it a character of its own. The 2.30-metre wide cabs, designed specifically for the short-radius distribution transport market, are available in either short or medium-size versions. Both offer a convincing combination of easy access, optimised ergonomics and intuitive controls.

With a total of 13 power categories, the Mercedes-Benz Antos covers a broad spectrum of engine power from 175 kW (238 hp) to 375 kW (510 hp). The new vehicles are available as either platform trucks or tractor units with a range of 67 wheelbase lengths, varying from 2650 mm at one end of the scale to 6700 mm at the other. The driver is helped in his everyday duties by a fully automated PowerShift transmission, amongst other features. Safety can also be further improved by the addition of optional systems such as Active Brake Assist, which now reacts to both stationary and moving obstacles.