Mercedes Actros is a popular family of heavy-duty vehicles and truck tractors, embodying the advanced solutions of German designers. It includes models with a total weight from 18,000 to 41,000 kg. The Mercedes Actros series is a benchmark in the segment of long-distance long-haul transportation. Due to its high reliability, cross-country ability and durability, the car is equally effective on asphalt and completely off-road.
Mercedes Actros is characterized by true German quality. The manufacturer provides a warranty of 36 months (450,000 km), and maintenance intervals are 120,000 km. Mercedes Actros also stands out for its low fuel consumption. The model is listed in the Guinness Book as the most economical truck.
The family includes over 500 modifications, and the most popular in Russia are models 1844, 1841 and 1840.
Model history and purpose
Mercedes Actros has a relatively short history.
The first car with this name was released in 1996. Several years before the debut of the advanced family, the German manufacturer began to think about updating its line of heavy-duty vehicles. The SK series is outdated in many respects. The “indestructible” truck began to lose in demand, and the manufacturer needed something fundamentally new. As a result, the Mercedes Actros family appeared. The developers took a revolutionary path. Almost nothing remained of the simple “predecessor” in the design. The model has noticeably changed, and a lot of electronics have appeared inside. This had a positive effect on the quality of work and level of comfort, but reliability decreased somewhat. The car received a standard appearance and design for heavy-duty models - a large rectangular cabin and a durable chassis. Mercedes has not forgotten about its corporate identity. The front part of the cabin was decorated with a powerful radiator grille, typical of the brand’s products, and a large company badge.
1st generation
The first Mercedes Actros received a lot of criticism from consumers. Electronics were especially hard hit, problems with which arose regularly. It took the manufacturer 4 years to treat the “diseases”.
2nd generation
In 2000, the Actros MP2 series premiered. In fact, the car was a redesigned version of the debut model (MP2 – Modellpflege 2 or “redesigned model 2”). Externally, the truck has remained virtually unchanged, but has become much more reliable. However, the image of a “problem” car behind the Mercedes Actros persisted for a long time.
3rd generation
In 2008, the German brand introduced an updated version of the truck. The MP3 version received major changes in design and construction. The truck's cabin has increased in size and become more expressive due to a large U-shaped grille with an enlarged brand logo, vertical sharp headlights and an aggressive bumper. Mercedes Actros MP3 has become incredibly stylish. The design of the model has also undergone fundamental changes. Since 2008, a fully automated gearbox began to be installed on the car. At that time, no truck could boast of such an option. The production of Mercedes Actros has been established in Russia since the fall of 2010. Assembly is carried out at the facilities of the joint venture between Daimler and KAMAZ in Naberezhnye Chelny.
4th generation
In 2012, the German concern again surprised the world by introducing the fourth generation Mercedes Actros. The project became one of the most ambitious, and investments in it exceeded $1 billion. The model is based on a modular configuration system. All models of the family received 3 equipment packages (Top, Classic, Basic), differing in the list of equipment. Batch formation was applied to all systems (interior, security, body and others). The appearance of the Mercedes Actros IV has become even more brutal. Interesting block headlights in the shape of a boomerang added some chic. The engine line now includes unique, ultra-efficient units with Euro-6 environmental class.
Currently, the family includes models with wheel formulas 4 by 2, 4 by 4, 6 by 2, 6 by 4; several cab options, 2 chassis modifications and various types of attachments and bodies. This significantly expands the scope of application of the car, allowing you to select a specific version for specific purposes. However, the most popular remain tractors and vehicles designed for transporting various cargoes over medium and long distances.
Safety
In past years and decades, truck life and profitability have come to the forefront. Now, almost all manufacturers place safety on a par with these parameters. This benefits not only the driver, who today can benefit from disc brakes, a powerful engine brake and a sophisticated seat belt system. Headlight manufacturers who have remained faithful to the old designs for decades now offer headlights that provide enough illumination that nothing will slip through the cracks. The danger posed to an unlit cyclist by a truck driver has never been greater. However, the driver of a passenger car also benefits from improvements in trucks: a protective underrun bar installed at the front
Specifications
Due to the presence of many modifications of the Mercedes Actros, the characteristics of the cars in the family differ markedly. Dimensions:
- length – 6000-10000 mm;
- width – 2500 mm;
- height – 1920 mm;
- ground clearance - 270 mm.
The weight of the transported cargo is from 9000 to 135000 kg (as part of a road train). The total vehicle weight can reach 144,000 kg. Despite the heavy weight, the Mercedes Actros shows good dynamic characteristics:
- maximum speed – 162 km/h (with a limiter – 85 km/h);
- acceleration to 100 km/h – 20 seconds.
The latest generation of truck with new units has an average fuel consumption of 19-21 l/100 km. Less economical engines show higher consumption - 25-45 l/100 km (depending on load, season and type of unit). The fuel tank holds from 450 to 1200 liters of fuel.
Chassis. dimensions
What appeared already during the first measurements was confirmed by other assessments and analysis of the results; all four truck tractors are almost the same in terms of quality. For BlueTec 6 vehicles, only use engine oils that comply with the Mercedes-Benz Lubricants Specifications in accordance with Sheet 228.
| Year of issue | Car modification | Fuel consumption in the city (l/100km) | Fuel consumption in the combined cycle (l/100km) | Fuel consumption on the highway (l/100km) |
| 1994 | E320 Coupe 3.2 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 13.9 | 12.4 | 10.3 |
| 1994 | E320 Sedan 3.2 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 13.9 | 12.4 | 10.3 |
| 1994 | E320 Station wagon 3.2 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.75 | 13.1 | 10.7 |
| 1994 | E420 4.2 L, 8 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.75 | 13.1 | 10.7 |
| 1994 | E320 Convertible 3.2 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.75 | 13.1 | 11.3 |
| 1994 | E500 5.0 L, 8 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 16.9 | 14.75 | 13.1 |
| 1993 | 300E 2.8 2.8 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 13.9 | 12.4 | 10.3 |
| 1993 | 300CE 3.2 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 13.9 | 12.4 | 10.7 |
| 1993 | 300E 3.2 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 13.9 | 12.4 | 10.7 |
| 1993 | 400E 4.2 L, 8 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.75 | 13.1 | 10.7 |
| 1993 | 300TE 3.2 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.75 | 13.1 | 11.8 |
| 1993 | 300E 4Matic 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 13.9 | 12.4 |
| 1993 | 300TE 4Matic 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 13.9 | 12.4 |
| 1993 | 500E 5.0 L, 8 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 16.9 | 14.75 | 13.1 |
| 1992 | 300E 2.6 2.6 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 13.1 | 11.8 | 10.3 |
| 1992 | 300E 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.75 | 13.1 | 10.7 |
| 1992 | 300CE 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.7 | 13.9 | 11.3 |
| 1992 | 300TE 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.7 | 13.9 | 11.8 |
| 1992 | 400E 4.2 L, 8 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.7 | 14.75 | 11.8 |
| 1992 | 300E 4Matic 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.7 | 14.75 | 12.4 |
| 1992 | 300TE 4Matic 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.7 | 14.75 | 13.1 |
| 1992 | 500E 5.0 L, 8 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 18.2 | 16.9 | 14.75 |
| 1991 | 200E 2.0 L, 4 cylinders, 4-speed manual transmission | 13.1 | 11.8 | 9.8 |
| 1991 | 230CE 2.0 L, 4 cylinders, 4-speed manual transmission | 13.1 | 11.8 | 9.8 |
| 1991 | 230E 2.0 L, 4 cylinders, 4-speed manual transmission | 13.1 | 11.8 | 9.8 |
| 1991 | 230TE 2.0 L, 4 cylinders, 4-speed manual transmission | 13.1 | 11.8 | 9.8 |
| 1991 | 300E 2.6 2.6 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 13.9 | 12.4 | 10.7 |
| 1991 | 300E 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.8 | 13.1 | 10.7 |
| 1991 | 300CE 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.7 | 13.1 | 10.7 |
| 1991 | 230E 2.0 L, 4 cylinders, automatic transmission 4-speed | 14.8 | 13.9 | 13.1 |
| 1991 | 300E 4Matic 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 13.9 | 11.8 |
| 1991 | 300TE 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 13.9 | 11.8 |
| 1991 | 300TE 4Matic 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 14.75 | 13.1 |
| 1991 | 260E 2.6 L, 6 cylinders, automatic transmission 4-speed | 15.8 | 14.75 | 13.9 |
| 1991 | 300E 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 15.8 | 14.75 |
| 1990 | 300E 2.6 2.6 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 13.9 | 13.1 | 11.2 |
| 1990 | 300E 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.8 | 13.1 | 11.2 |
| 1990 | 300CE 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 13.9 | 11.8 |
| 1990 | 300E 4Matic 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 13.9 | 11.8 |
| 1990 | 300TE 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 14.75 | 12.4 |
| 1990 | 300TE 4Matic 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 14.75 | 13.1 |
| 1989 | 260E 2.6 L, 6 cylinders, automatic transmission 4-speed | 13.1 | 12.4 | 10.7 |
| 1989 | 300CE 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.7 | 13.1 | 11.8 |
| 1989 | 300E 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.7 | 13.1 | 11.8 |
| 1989 | 300TE 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.8 | 13.9 | 11.8 |
| 1988 | 260E 2.6 L, 6 cylinders, automatic transmission 4-speed | 13.1 | 12.4 | 10.7 |
| 1988 | 260E 2.6 L, 6 cylinders, 5-speed manual transmission | 14.7 | 13.1 | 10.3 |
| 1988 | 300CE 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.7 | 13.1 | 11.8 |
| 1988 | 300E 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.7 | 13.1 | 11.8 |
| 1988 | 300E 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 5-speed manual transmission | 15.7 | 13.1 | 10.3 |
| 1988 | 300TE 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 15.7 | 14.7 | 12.4 |
| 1987 | 300TD 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 11.3 | 10.7 | 9.5 |
| 1987 | 260E 2.6 L, 6 cylinders, automatic transmission 4-speed | 13.9 | 12.4 | 10.7 |
| 1987 | 300E 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.7 | 13.1 | 11.8 |
| 1986 | 300E 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 5-speed manual transmission | 14.7 | 12.4 | 10.3 |
| 1986 | 300E 3.0 L, 6 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 14.7 | 13.1 | 11.8 |
| 1985 | 300TD 3.0 L, 5 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 12.4 | 11.3 | 10.3 |
| 1985 | 300TD 3.0 L, 5 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 12.4 | 12.4 | 11.8 |
| 1984 | 300TD 3.0 L, 5 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 11.3 | 10.7 | 9.8 |
| 1984 | 300TD 3.0 L, 5 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 11.3 | 10.7 | 10.3 |
| 1984 | 300TD 3.0 L, 5 cylinders, 4-speed automatic transmission | 11.3 | 10.7 | 10.3 |
Engine
Mercedes Actros uses economical turbodiesel units:
- V-shaped 12-liter engines: rated power - 235-350 kW (320-476 hp), number of cylinders - 6;
- V-shaped 16-liter engines: rated power - 375-440 kW (510-598 hp), number of cylinders - 8.
The power units are controlled by the Telligent system, which provides injection pressure of up to 2300 bar. This technology guarantees the most efficient combustion and low emissions. The environmental friendliness of the units is also enhanced by the BlueTec system. An injection of AdBlue is added to the exhaust gas stream at the outlet, which converts carbon monoxide into water and nitrogen through an SCR catalyst.
Device
The frame design uses side members with holes with 50 mm pitch. This design simplifies the installation of platforms and attachments. In the front part, fastening is carried out through bolts.
A distinctive feature of all Mercedes Actros models is the presence of a unique Telligent system, which processes in real time data coming from several dozen sensors installed in various areas of the car. This monitors the actual wear of the brake system, gearbox and engine, as well as adjusts the load. The result of the Telligent system is an increase in system life and service intervals.
It is no coincidence that Mercedes Actros is considered one of the most reliable trucks. For models with power 510-598 hp. The HL 8 hypoid axle is used, which is highly durable; for versions with units up to 480 hp, Actros Low-Liner modifications and machines with a low frame, the HL 6 axle is used. An optional drive axle with HL 7 wheel drives is available. It allows you to reduce the radius turning and increases the ease of driving. Most Mercedes Actros models are equipped with air suspension with 2 air springs, flatbed trucks are equipped with air suspension with 4 air springs. The latter are also offered with a body vibration control system, which provides greater safety and comfort of movement. Parabolic springs used in the car suspension are reliably protected from corrosion and optimized for weight. All versions are also equipped with axle stabilizers and shock absorbers.
The braking system in the Mercedes Actros guarantees a minimum braking distance thanks to the ASR, ABS systems, internally ventilated disc brakes and the presence of constant pressure in the brake drive (10 bar). There is also an auxiliary braking system that quickly reacts to possible danger and provides sharp braking. During braking, wear-free brakes are used, except when braking to a complete stop. The integrated anti-rollback system prevents unwanted rolling backwards or forwards. A braking system with ABS is standard on all modifications of the Mercedes Actros. Additional braking aids are available as options.
The latest generation of the German truck is offered with an automated 12- or 16-speed Mercedes PowerShift 2 transmission, increasing safety, comfort and efficiency. The system activates several operating modes: Power, EcoRoll, free swing mode, hysteretic cruise control mode and maneuvering mode. Each of them helps to increase certain characteristics of the machine. Additional functions (switching from first to reverse gear), Kickdown function and rapid reverse gears make operation as easy as possible. An alternative to Mercedes PowerShift 2 are four 16-speed gearboxes with standard gear shifting.
The interior of the car is perfect in terms of quality and ergonomics. The dashboard shows all the necessary information about the operation of the car. The steering wheel, indicators and levers are located conveniently and do not interfere with driving. The truck is equipped with a sprung seat that even the pickiest driver will like.
Malfunctions
One can have different attitudes towards various kinds of innovations that have come to long-haul trucks today, but what is known for certain is that with an acute shortage of professional drivers, these systems can not only mitigate the lack of competent driving skills, but also actually save on fuel, thereby thereby reducing the cost of transportation. After switching on, it remains constantly activated, including after an intermediate stop or when the engine is turned off with forward or reverse gear engaged.
Reviews of Mercedes Actros
- Sergey, Penza: I had a Mersedes Aktros 1846. The model is a prominent representative of the German brand’s line. The driver has access to all control levers and buttons and an excellent overview from the seat. The car's cabin is incredibly functional and spacious. Under the bed there is a drawer for dishes and a refrigerator. I really liked the smooth floors with a minimum of hard-to-reach places for cleaning. The latest electronic control system allows you not to be afraid of dangerous sections of the road: rough terrain, ice or off-road conditions. The ZF automatic transmission ensures smooth, slip-free operation. The electronics in the model are reliable; there have been no brake, engine or air suspension failures in 3 years. But this model also has disadvantages. First of all, this is the high cost of the machine itself and spare parts. In cold weather, the heater does not cope well with warming up the cabin; it always remains cool inside. Everything else works great.
- Victor, Ufa: Mercedes Actros is a car you can trust. In terms of comfort, it simply has no equal in its class, and safety is also at the highest level. The service interval is 60,000 km, which allows you to save a lot. The average cost of maintenance is around 45,000 rubles, which is not much. The fuel system is adapted to Russian realities and does not cause problems. The Power Shift transmission is easy to operate. I really liked Mercedes Actros. This machine has one downside - its high price.
Cost of used Mercedes Benz Actros 1844 LS
The new Actros beds come as standard with a supportive flexible frame, ensuring comfortable sleep in both the upper and lower berths. In 1998, the German automaker acquired the third largest American manufacturer Chrysler Motors, which allowed the newly created transnational company Daimler-Chrysler AG to take third place in the world in the production of trucks.
