Mercedes-Benz Trucks is bringing the world’s first all-electric heavy-duty truck, the Urban eTruck, to market in a small series.

The first vehicles will be delivered to customers this year, with a 25 tonnes gross vehicle weight and a range of up to 124 miles.

Stefan Buchner, head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks worldwide, said: “Following the world premiere in September 2016 at the International Commercial Vehicle Show the customer reaction was outstanding. We are currently talking to around 20 potential customers from the disposal, foodstuffs and logistics sectors. With the small series we are now rapidly taking the next step towards a series product. By 2020 we want to be on the market with the series generation.”

The Urban eTruck offers Zero emissions and a payload of 12.8 tonnes. Initially, small number of units will go to customers in Germany, with more to follow elsewhere in Europe later. These vehicles will be deployed in real-life transport operations. The aim is to apply the learnings from genuine applications and requirements, coupled with customer feedback, to further optimise the electric truck’s concept and system configurations. The tests will include use in shift operation, charging times plus battery and range management.

In order to be able to depict the various application possibilities, 18- and 25-tonne models will be equipped with refrigerated, dry box and platform bodies. Together with a special charger which takes into account the increased demands on a truck, the vehicles will be handed over to the customers to use for a period of 12 months, during which they will be supported by Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ road testing department. The use profiles and areas of application will be recorded, and the knowledge gained compared with expectations.

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