The Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 has been awarded the prestigious title of International Truck of the Year 2025 by a panel of commercial vehicle journalists from 24 European countries. This award is one of the most significant recognitions in the trucking industry.
The jury highlighted the innovative technological design of the eActros 600, praising its advanced drive system, high energy efficiency, and remarkable range. During the ‘eActros 600 European Testing Tour 2024,’ the truck showcased a 500-kilometer range without intermediate charging, traveling over 15,000 kilometers through 22 countries with a gross combination mass of 40 tons. In several stages of the tour, the eActros 600 demonstrated the potential to exceed a 600-kilometer range. Throughout the journey, the truck was charged exclusively at public charging stations.
Karin Rådström, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks, received the award at the IAA Transportation 2024 event in Hanover. Gianenrico Griffini, Chairman of the International Truck of the Year (ITotY) jury, commended the eActros 600, stating, “From the very beginning, Mercedes-Benz Trucks designed the eActros 600 as an electric truck. The result is a state-of-the-art battery-electric vehicle that is adept at a wide range of long-distance applications.”
Expressing pride in the achievement, Rådström said, “Almost all jury members have tested the eActros 600 on roads across Europe, experiencing its performance firsthand. Today is a proud moment for the teams who worked tirelessly to make this truck a market leader.”
The International Truck of the Year title is awarded annually to the vehicle that significantly contributes to innovation in road transport, focusing on efficiency, emissions, safety, vehicle dynamics, and comfort. Since the award’s inception in 1977, Mercedes-Benz Trucks has now secured this title ten times. This year marks the first time the company has won with a battery-electric vehicle.
Journalists participating in the eActros 600 European Testing Tour praised the truck’s advanced aerodynamics, especially its new ProCabin driver’s cab design. Improved aerodynamics are crucial for electric trucks used in long-distance hauling, as reduced air resistance directly impacts energy consumption. Additionally, the eActros 600’s ability to recover more energy through recuperation contributes to its longer range.
The jury also lauded the truck’s powertrain performance, smooth acceleration, and vibration-free driving experience. Mercedes-Benz Trucks designed a new electric axle specifically for long-distance haulage, featuring two electric motors and a four-speed transmission at 800 volts. This setup generates a continuous output of 400 kW and a peak output of 600 kW. The eActros 600 also includes the Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC) system, optimizing cruise control and transmission for the electric drive, considering factors like topography and road layout.
eActros 600 Production to Begin in November 2024
The eActros 600 had its world premiere in late 2023. With a battery capacity exceeding 600 kWh, the electric truck achieves a 500-kilometer range under practical conditions with a 40-ton gross combination mass. Depending on driving style and route, this range can be significantly extended, potentially covering over 1,000 kilometers per day with intermediate charging during mandated driver breaks. In addition to CCS charging of up to 400 kW, the eActros 600 will eventually support megawatt charging (MCS).
The truck features a sleek, aerodynamic design and is expected to set new profitability standards for fleet operators, gradually replacing diesel trucks in long-distance transport. Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ holistic approach includes vehicle technology, consulting services, a charging infrastructure, and support under the new TruckCharge brand.
Series production of the eActros 600 will begin at the end of November 2024 at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth. The first customer vehicles are expected to be manufactured and registered before the close of the year, marking a significant step toward a more sustainable future in long-distance trucking.
