Mercedes-Benz Trucks is preparing to launch its first all-electric construction vehicle, the eArocs 400, in , following rigorous winter testing in the Arctic Circle. The truck, designed for urban construction transport, underwent trials in Finland where temperatures plummeted to -20°C to validate its performance in extreme conditions.
The eArocs 400 is intended to address the growing demand for low-emission and low-noise construction vehicles in urban environments. According to Michael Kimmich, Head of Development for the eArocs 400, the truck “handled with confidence” during testing, demonstrating “stable driving characteristics and a range and charging performance well within the expected parameters.”
The winter testing program focused on several key areas critical for reliable operation in cold climates. Engineers evaluated traction and handling on snow and ice, cold-start performance, battery behavior in sub-zero temperatures and charging capabilities. Recuperation efficiency – the ability to recover energy during braking – was also assessed under winter driving conditions. The results will inform final refinements before series production begins.
Production and Specifications
Production of the base vehicle will commence in the third quarter of at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth am Rhein, Germany. Final integration of the electric powertrain will be handled by the Paul Group in Vilshofen an der Donau, Germany. The company plans a limited production run of 150 vehicles annually for select European Union markets.
The eArocs 400 will be available in two primary configurations: a concrete mixer and a tipper. The tipper version will have a gross vehicle weight of 44 tonnes, while the concrete mixer will be available in a 37-tonne configuration, covering a broad range of urban construction applications. The truck will offer four different wheelbase options.
The eArocs 400 utilizes Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery technology, chosen for its durability and high energy density. The battery pack, with a net capacity of 414 kWh, is positioned behind the cab. Mercedes-Benz projects a 50% improvement in energy efficiency compared to a comparable diesel-powered vehicle.
Range and Charging
The electric truck is expected to achieve a range of up to 240 kilometers (approximately 149 miles) in its tipper configuration and 200 kilometers (approximately 124 miles) as a concrete mixer. Charging can be accomplished at up to 400 kW, enabling a charge from 10% to 80% capacity in approximately 46 minutes.
The development of the eArocs 400 builds on Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ experience with the eActros 600, a long-haul electric truck also utilizing LFP battery cells. The company views the eArocs 400 as a key step in its broader electrification strategy for the commercial vehicle sector.
The successful completion of winter testing underscores the growing viability of electric vehicles in demanding operational environments. While the initial production volume is relatively small, the eArocs 400 represents a significant milestone for Mercedes-Benz Trucks and the wider construction industry as it transitions towards more sustainable transportation solutions. The data gathered during these trials will also contribute to the development of future electric truck models.
