Mercedes-Benz Trucks Mena, together with Emirates Motor Company (EMC), its authorised distributor in Abu Dhabi, recently launched a special edition Actros truck in celebration of the model’s 20th anniversary.

The media launch event at Endurance City included a live demonstration of the Actros 3844 S 6x4 tractor-head model and of its state-of-the-art equipment and innovative safety systems by Mercedes-Benz driver trainers from Germany and the training and product management team of Daimler Commercial Vehicles Mena.

The Actros is arguably the most versatile of Mercedes-Benz’s construction vehicles available in the Middle East, suited for sand, gravel and rock tipping operations with high load capacity, several powered axles (six by four) and extra protection features for harsh off-road conditions; mixers (with a variety of chassis versions with two-, three- or four-axle configurations); super heavy-duty transport applications; concrete pump mounts; and silo, semitrailer and flatbed crane applications.

Powered by a highly fuel-efficient six-cylinder engine (Euro 3) boosting 435 horsepower and 2,100 NM of torque, the heavy-duty truck delivers great performance thanks to the power transfer to the two driven rear axles via a twin-plate clutch and the reliable and efficient 16-speed Mercedes PowerShift automated gearbox.

Mercedes PowerShift provides specific driving modes that support the driver in mastering all traffic situations with ease and convenience, thus facilitating the driver’s level of concentration.

Accident prevention is also assisted by the Bluetooth radio enabling hands-free use of a mobile phone whilst driving. The truck’s FleetBoard telematics system provides not only vehicle tracking, trip recording and professional fleet management, but also continuous analysis and rating of driver and vehicle performance, enhancing the operational excellence of the truck.

Further specifications include the powerful engine and transmission cooling system, air intake on the upper side of the cab and a tandem air cleaner that provide outstanding robustness and reliability even under the region’s extreme climate conditions. The Actros 20 Years Edition also features a performance optimised hydraulic retarder, an additional braking system ensuring highest levels of braking performance with no wear of brakes and brake linings.

Key highlights of the Actros 20 Years Edition are the various state-of-the art safety features, providing maximum active and passive safety – an area that Mercedes-Benz has been pioneering in the industry for more than 50 years. Besides the standard electronically controlled Telligent braking system with anti-lock braking system (ABS) and acceleration skid control (ASR), the truck is also equipped with the optional Active Brake Assist.

The Active Brake Assist system operates with three radar beams, which constantly scan an area of 1 to 200 m ahead of the truck. Radar detection of a collision with a moving obstacle would result in the driver been given a visual and audible alert by the system. Depending on the severity of the situation, the system will react with a partial braking manoeuvre and, if necessary, even initiates an emergency braking to standstill. Thus, the Active Brake Assist helps to avoid dangerous rear-end collisions, for instance at the end of a traffic jam, and minimises the impact for occupants in case a collision is inevitable.

The Actros 20 Years Edition features further safety systems, such as a driver airbag, a Telligent Proximity Control and Telligent Lane Assistant. Telligent Proximity Control automatically adjusts the speed of the truck according to the traffic situation, constantly analysing the distance of vehicles driving in front of it. Additionally, if a sudden obstacle appears, such as a vehicle changing lanes, the driver is warned both visually and audibly.   

The Telligent Lane Assistant features a digital camera behind the screen, detecting the vehicle position in relation to the left-hand and right-hand lane markings. When activated, the system helps the driver to stay in lane by giving audible warning signals when accidentally leaving the traffic lane. The additional front mirror increases the visible area in front of the truck, helping to recognise pedestrians or obstacles quickly.

Roland Schneider, president and CEO of Daimler Commercial Vehicles Mena, said: “The launch of the 20 Years Actros Edition is yet another milestone in the success story of our iconic flagship truck in the Mena region. The model’s state-of-the-art safety features and the highly fuel-efficient drivetrain underline the technological leadership of Mercedes-Benz Trucks. The Actros provides the ideal product solution for customers seeking the highest safety and efficiency standards.”

The comfortable and spacious L-Cab is fully painted in a carbon black metallic colour enhanced with dynamic silver stripes with the 20 Years Actros emblem. The impressive design is complemented by chromed air-horns on top of the cab and an LED-illuminated Mercedes-Benz star on the front.

All features of the Actros 20 Years Edition are available from the Mercedes-Benz Trucks factory in Woerth/Germany, and can be ordered through the authorised Mercedes-Benz Truck distributors across the Mena region. Professional driver training is offered by Mercedes-Benz and its General Distributors to instruct fleet managers and drivers on how to operate the truck and its features focusing on maximum safety and efficiency. – TradeArabia News Service