KamAZ-54901 generation K5: engine, gearbox, equipment

Daniil Minaev Photo by the author and KAMAZ PJSC

Western journalists noted that Sergei Kogogin was modest at the presentation of the world premiere of KAMAZ-54901 M1855. Even our Berlin correspondent Robert Yablonsky, who specially came to Moscow, had the feeling that the general director of KAMAZ PJSC was deliberately breaking the usual patterns and dragging his feet. It is generally strange for foreigners that in Russia they teach sensationalism with Byzantine floridity. But everyone was wondering when the car would hit the Eastern European market and who would test it first?

The editors' patience was tested all year. They winked at us about this new product in the spring, and casually reminded us in the summer, leaving out the details and how great the temptation was to give insight.

The top of the model range is the long-haul tractor of the KAMAZ K5 family - the most important project of the Kama auto giant in defiance of MAZ. In the gossip, it remains unclear to what extent the Russian auto industry is ready to give a fight to foreign cars assembled in Russia. The process of creating such a machine required huge investments and the involvement of foreign partners. KAMAZ will have to fight for its margin. A tough competition is coming with the market cleared of Chinese expansion.

Frame concept MP4 K5

The cabin ideology is based on the driver’s workplace, which should be at the level of the best representatives of the premium passenger car segment. If from 1976 to 1995 minor improvements concerned only an increase in efficiency while maintaining the living space at the level of 5 m3, then already in 2005 in Naberezhnye Chelny they worked to reduce vibration and noise, while the living space increased to 6.5 m3. However, no matter how you modernize the old project, a radical scrap is required. After all, the internal volumes of modern cars are 7.5–9 cubic meters. And it was decided to move towards the highest point.

There was something to start from. The design of the new look of KAMAZ vehicles was carried out by the Italian studio Torino Design srl, which two years ago already created the KAMAZ 2022 exhibition cabin with a shower and a treadmill inside.

Even if you install a new cab without fundamentally changing the chassis, any truck will look like a new model. Therefore, the main sign of continuity is the door - the most expensive part in production. The generic sign is the door openings and the “greenhouse” - the body (as engineers correctly call the cabin).

Externally it turned out really beautiful and recognizable and distinctive. Only a subtle and meticulous design connoisseur will suspect German origin in the styling through the shape of the doorways. The original plastic body kit plays a significant role in the perception: the lower belt and the front lining, giving the car a new mood.

The body (i.e. the cabin) is based on a joint effort between Daimler AG and Daimler AG. The frame index is SFTP, like the fourth generation Actros, which will be produced in Russia from 2019. The volume of future production is up to 55,000 pieces per year. SFTP cabs are already mounted on the current generation Actros MP4 tractors, and the production of frames does not mean the bodies themselves, but stamped panels (roof, walls, doors).

The interior has also changed. For Mercedes-Benz trucks manufactured in Naberezhnye Chelny, it will produce complete cabs, but for KAMAZ it will produce only steel frames. Do the rest yourself! The cabin meets the latest requirements for comfort and is a compact coupe: the distance in the cabin from floor to ceiling is 1980 mm, and the internal width is 2270 mm. The controls and instrument panel are designed to be accessible at arm's length. The seats allow a wide range of adjustments. Two berths are not yet provided as basic, but an on-board information system with a 10-inch touch screen is already an integral attribute.

The expected focus on driver convenience and comfort affected not only the interior, but also the exterior. There are wide steps and handles at the front of the cab for servicing the windshield. Fog lights with cornering function are built into the bumper. It is not yet possible to judge how much new modern materials along with elegant color schemes have raised the interior and exterior of the cabin to a new level, since it is not yet possible to judge, since a pre-production show-stopper and a production sample are not the same thing.

Maximum comfort during use

Diagram of the cabin interior in the KAMAZ 54901 truck tractor:

Features of the interior of the KAMAZ 54901 tractor cab:

Storage boxes in the cab of the KAMAZ 54901 long-haul tractor:

* the diagram shows the volume of boxes in liters

• Total volume of storage compartments under the berth, l: 500
• Total volume of storage boxes in the window shelf, l: 145

Simplicity and ease of operation

When creating the KAMAZ-54901 long-haul tractor, the designers of KAMAZ PJSC were well aware that the cabin is not just a driver’s workplace, it is practically his home, taking into account the transportation range, so they even provided for minor details:

• The multifunction steering wheel has auxiliary buttons to control various functions. The driver has the ability to quickly and conveniently control the multimedia system, cruise control, on-board computer, navigation and telephone.
• New comfortable anatomical driver's seat with a wide range of adjustments and an armrest. Adjustments allow you to customize the seat to suit the driver's individual characteristics, ensuring comfort throughout the journey. The driver's seat is also equipped with air suspension and heating.
• The rear air suspension control panel allows you to adjust the chassis height when hitching without leaving the cab.

The cabin design is stylish and modern. The cabin fully complies with international standards for safety and comfort.

Comfort for work and rest – increased productivity

The cabin of the KAMAZ 54901 vehicle meets all modern comfort requirements. Thanks to the ceiling height increased to 2022 mm, the internal width to 2270 mm and a flat floor, the driver can move around inside the cabin at full height.

The center console is well thought out and functional. It has convenient drawers for storing small items, cup holders, and a cooled place to store a water bottle. A sufficient number of drawers, compartments and niches save space and help maintain order. There are lockable drawers at the top for larger items and papers.

Depending on the configuration, the car can be equipped with one or two sleeping places . A full-fledged sleeping place measuring 2200x750x110 mm is ideally designed for relaxation and sleep. This is especially important after a job well done. At the head of the berth there are switches with which you can adjust the lighting and control the operating modes of the cabin heater without getting up.

The climate system also allows you to maintain comfortable working conditions , which ensures optimal distribution of air flows and creates a comfortable temperature in the cabin, regardless of weather conditions.

New instrument panel - time saving

KAMAZ-54901 is equipped with a completely new instrument panel , made in a stylish modern design and with improved ergonomics:

• All controls are within arm's reach, providing convenience and reducing driver fatigue.
• To start the engine, just press a button.
• The tachometer and speedometer display all the main characteristics.
• All necessary information is displayed on the display.
• A rear axle load sensor is already standard.

The display on the instrument panel is a great assistant on long flights! When you turn on the ignition, all the necessary and important information for work appears on it: total and daily mileage, outside temperature, current time, oil pressure, voltage in the on-board network, fuel consumption, axle load parameters, etc.

For maximum convenience, all panel elements have a traditional arrangement.

On-board information system (BIS) - new opportunities

The instrument panel integrates an on-board information system (BIS) with one of the largest 10.1'' touchscreen displays in its class, which allows the driver to:

During operation:

• Promptly plan and plot a route to the goal.
• Listen to FM radio or favorite music albums via USB, microSD, AUX, Bluetooth.
• Make phone calls without being distracted from the road (Hands free BT).
• Manage the diesel engine and the autonomous interior heater, monitor the truck parameters (including the loading of the drive axle).

During rest:

1. Play videos online* (YouTube) and offline (via USB, microSD).
2. Communicate with partners and loved ones through online messengers.*

* An Internet traffic package is provided with the car, allowing you to unlock the potential of the LSI.

Aerodynamics of the KAMAZ 54901 tractor cab:

• Reduced drag coefficient due to the trapezoidal shape of the cabin, the rounded shape of the upper part of the cabin and a full set of external fairings (top and side)
• Optimized air flow under the vehicle thanks to the aerodynamic lower spoiler
• The High-Tech package includes side aerodynamic fairings on the chassis body.

Tires installed on the KAMAZ-54901 truck tractor:

All axles are equipped with class A tires for rolling resistance, namely those produced by Michelin, model X Line Energy . These tires reduce overall fuel consumption (low rolling resistance, good road grip), have an extended service life and low noise level.

Power line and chassis

The in-line 6-cylinder engine of the KAMAZ-910.10-550 model, the fruit of cooperation between the auto giant and the German company Liebherr, is very close to its European counterparts in both design and characteristics. The long-stroke engine (cylinder diameter - 130 mm, piston stroke - 150 mm) made it possible to extract 550 hp from a 12 liter displacement. (at 1900 rpm). At the same time, the maximum 2600 Nm of torque is available already at 1300 rpm. The engine has a cast iron cylinder block, a camshaft in the block, 4 valves per cylinder, wet liners, and a common rail fuel system. The prospects for the new engine, which has an efficiency of 43%, are planned to be raised to 50–55% in the future by improving the operating process characteristics, gas exchange, reducing friction, using intelligent systems and through effective heat recovery. In general, upon achieving Euro 6 environmental standards, it is possible to reduce fuel consumption to 170 g / kW∙h.

When compared with foreign analogues, this is a typical set of modern design solutions. The KAMAZ-54901 long-haul tractor is equipped with a new ZF Traxon automated gearbox. The car frame is made of lightweight high-strength steel, the front axle has increased the load capacity to 9 tons and received maintenance-free hubs. The new type of fully unloaded drive axle is economical and quiet, with a hypoid transmission, gear ratio from 2.5 to 3.07, depending on the modification.

The driveshaft connections have end splines to reduce the load on the fasteners. I was surprised that all wheels have disc brakes, and the braking system includes a dynamic stabilization system. And here a break in the pattern arises - well, it’s not usual to see this in the basic configuration, and even with a stability control system and traction control. Tubeless tires with dimensions 315 / 80 R22.5 were selected taking into account high-speed work. Anti-roll bars are installed on the front and rear axles, which is a necessity for regional long-haul tractors. For comfortable mainline operation, the capacity of the fuel tanks has been increased: one tank for 700 l or 2 tanks for a total of 1200 l, depending on the version.

Options and prices

The manufacturer plans to put into full-scale serial production, which is scheduled for 2022, three versions of the tractor with a 6x4, 6x2 and 4x2 wheel arrangement. Also, the differences will come down to engine settings and power. It is planned to sell not only a truck with an engine power of 550 horsepower, but also to expand the boost range from 380 to 750 horsepower. A special conveyor has already been prepared for these and many other tasks at the Kama Automobile Plant. Together with Daimler AG, a production building has been prepared where the assembly of the new generation K5 body frames will be actively carried out. Prices start from 7 million rubles. For example, this is how much a dealer will ask for a 4x2 version of a truck tractor. But prices can vary both up and down.

Expensive or cheap? For example, a brand new MAN TGX 2020 can be purchased for 7.15 million rubles, and a modern DAF XF105 for 6.8 million rubles at best. But at the same time, KamAZ includes in the final cost service for a period of three years, which includes spare parts and maintenance. It is also possible to obtain preferential leasing. The first batch of cars has already been successfully sold out. At the same time, testing began on another truck from the K5 series - a dump truck with the index 65952. We can already say that the trial project has justified itself, so in the future the domestic tractor has every chance to rise to the same level as the leaders in the premium segment.

KamAZ-54901 generation K5

Presentation of KamAZ-54901

KamAZ-54901: interior

Automatic ZF Traxon

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Electronic variety

Intuitive human-machine interface has become an integral part of safety and ergonomics. A huge number of electronic systems and mobile applications are offered as options for KAMAZ-54901. Among the latest solutions are a driver condition monitoring system, a turn and traffic jam assistant, autonomous driving in traffic jams, a system for remote location monitoring and control of vehicle parameters, which, among other things, can monitor fuel consumption and the fact of fuel drainage based on the location. Taking into account such devices as mileage timing and linking to maps, the tractor becomes a robot.

However, electric units with specified characteristics have not been forgotten. The use of a thermoelectric exhaust gas heat recuperator allows an increase in efficiency by 3%, and another 2% is achieved by the use of an electrically driven turbocharger. The use of intelligent lubrication and cooling systems can together bring a 2% improvement in efficiency. Separately, the use of intelligent fuel equipment and auxiliary systems brings 0.5 and 0.55%.

The main differences of the new model:

• New large cab (K5) with a flat floor, built on the basis of the latest generation Mercedes-Benz Actros MP4 cab frame. Unlike the KAMAZ-5490 NEO cab, it is wider (2500 versus 2300 mm), higher and more spacious.
• Frame materials are lightweight high-strength steel. The load on the front axle has been increased to 9 tons, the hub part of which is maintenance-free. Economical and “quiet” hypoid bridges were installed.
• The capacity of the fuel tanks has been increased (two tanks of 800 and 600 liters).
• Service interval up to 120,000 km.
• New KAMAZ R6 engine (450 hp) and 12-speed ZF Traxon automated gearbox.

ZF Traxion automated 12-speed transmission diagram

Automatic transmission functions:

• Maneuvering (driving in a limited gear) – manually shifting the gearbox allows you to move in the gear that the driver has manually selected;
• Help when starting off on a hill (HSA Hill Start Assist) - does not allow the car to roll back when starting uphill;
• Coasting motion (Eco Roll) allows you to open the clutch, temporarily turning off the box from operation and, therefore, reduces resistance;
• Rocking function – on slippery roads allows you to achieve the effect of rocking the car by turning on and off the clutch;
• Creeping mode allows you to slowly start moving when you release the brake pedal without using the gas pedal (a driving mode similar to working with a torque converter in an automatic transmission).

Rear axle and front axle installed on a new KAMAZ 54901 tractor

Latest features and driver assistance systems (optional)

• Driver fatigue monitoring
• Turn and Traffic Jam Assist
• Active Steering
• Autonomous driving in traffic jams
• Possibility of monitoring the status of vehicle systems remotely from a mobile phone

Cabin KAMAZ-54901

Cabin KAMAZ 54901 from the inside

The original design of the cabin with horizontal lines on the front panel and slanting modern headlights, consisting of several sections: low beam - halogen lamps, high beam - lensed optics, and daytime running lights are made of durable and bright LEDs.

Inside the cabin there is a flat floor, there is no engine tunnel, and a high ceiling (height 1980 mm). Driving modes are controlled from the right steering column joystick. The presence of a large number of drawers and storage compartments. There are two drawers under the sleeping bag: one contains a refrigerator, the second can be used as a pull-out table for food.

Dashboard KAMAZ 54901

The cabin turned out to be quite high, so there are 4 steps leading into it. The top three are closed with a door, which protects them from dirt and water. Considering that many drivers leave their street shoes on the upper steps and wear replacement ones in the cab, this is a convenient solution.

The driver's seat is mounted on an air cushion and has many adjustments. The instrument cluster is classic, with two large scales for the tachometer and speedometer. The readings of other instruments are displayed inside these scales, as well as on the on-board computer screen. There is no usual ignition key here - the engine starts with a button. The center console is turned towards the driver, the main place in it is occupied by the multimedia system screen with a 10-inch touch screen. Below it are the control handles for the climate system and music.

KAMAZ-54901 has two berths, the top one is folding. The sleeping bag has lighting and shelves for things.

• Characteristics
• Engine
• Options
• Similar models
• Reviews

Run to the market

The presented new product is only a trial project, which will be fully commercialized in two years. That’s when regional chassis modifications with a 6x4 wheel arrangement and distribution 6x2 ones will come out of a cornucopia of modifications.

A pilot production batch of cars with index 54901 is planned to be released in 2022. The model will be launched into serial production in 2022; the full transition to series production will begin in 2022. By this time, the service life of the truck will be increased by 20% to 1.2 million km, and the engine to 1.5 million km. The service interval will be increased by 80% – 150,000 km. The engine will have several power settings: from 380 to 750 hp. In serial production, modifications with wheel formulas 4x2, 6x4, 6x2 are expected.

To achieve this goal, a factory building for the production of K5 generation cabin frames has already been built in a short time together with Daimler AG. Along with the new cab, the next generation vehicles will be equipped with a new 6-cylinder in-line engine. And a separate conveyor has already been prepared for this task.

Technical characteristics of the KAMAZ-54901 M1855 truck tractor

What they say on the forums: reviews from owners and drivers of KamAZ 54901

Alexander Evstigneev, 47 years old, Leningrad region:

The company purchased three KamAZ 54901 truck tractors a couple of months ago. They put me on one of them. What can I say – the car is impressive. A completely different cabin with modern equipment. Finally, the factory thought about the driver, the back does not get tired, visibility is excellent and the electronics help a lot. It’s difficult to say anything about the reliability of the units yet - the mileage is short, but the assembly sometimes causes bewilderment, just like in the old KamAZ, I had to tighten the bolts and nuts. No more shortcomings have yet been identified, although I heard the director complain about the high cost of the tractor.

There is no other way

“We have made it our strategy to move into the premium segment,” said Sergei Kogogin, General Director of KAMAZ PJSC, answering questions from journalists and explaining the combination of high technical characteristics and options within one model. “This is very difficult for the company, but nevertheless there is no other way.” The head of the auto giant noted that this is one of the main projects of the company, which is the future. The company plans to enter the world market with the new car. “Outside Russia, we will be very happy to look for partners for its sales throughout the globe. Our intentions are first of all to enter the markets of the CIS countries. We expect to bring it to Europe too,” explained the head of KAMAZ.

Modern design of KAMAZ equipment - design of a new level

The new mainline tractor KAMAZ-54901 stands out for its stylish and modern design. Such a car will not go unnoticed on the road.

• All elements of the cabin are not only harmonious, but also have important functions: they increase safety, efficiency, simplicity and ease of use, reduce fuel consumption and improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle.
• The sun visor contributes to traffic safety by protecting the driver from sudden blinding
• Improved aerodynamics reduces fuel consumption
• The deflector directs the air flow below the door handles, ensuring their cleanliness, which is especially important in slushy and rainy weather.
• Original head optics using LED technology ensure energy saving and long service life of the head lighting system
• Cleaning the windshield is made easy and safe thanks to the wide step and handles at the front of the cab
• Fog lights improve visibility in difficult weather conditions
• There are four steps to access the cabin, three of which are located behind the door, which guarantees protection from dust, dirt, snow and water

Cab colors of the new KAMAZ 54901

The release of the new KAMAZ-54901 model is planned in the following cab color options:

• RAL 9010 Arctic White
• RAL 9005 Deep Black
• RAL 3003 Rubin Red
• RAL 6037 Mint Green
• RAL 6016 Turquoise Green – turquoise green
• RAL 1033 Dahlia Yellow – dahlia yellow
• RAL 3004 Purple Red – cherry
• RAL 5010 Gentian Blue

Even experienced drivers do not remain indifferent to the interior and exterior of the KAMAZ 54901 vehicle, because they immediately appreciate its new cabin with a larger area and height, a flat floor, and two full berths, which makes it extremely comfortable for use.