Mercedes Actros is a popular family of heavy-duty vehicles and truck tractors, which embodies the most advanced design solutions in Germany. This includes vehicles with a gross vehicle weight between 18,000 and 41,000 kilograms.
The Mercedes Actros division serves as a model in the niche of long-haul transport. The models are reliable, passable and durable. The Actros line has more than 500 modifications, and the most popular in the Russian Federation are the Mercedes Actros 1844, Mercedes Actros 1840 and 1841. The entire Mercedes-Benz model range.
It is noteworthy that the Mercedes-Benz Actros is characterized by genuine German quality. The company provides a 36 month (or 450,000 kilometers) warranty period. Maintenance intervals are 120,000 km.
The German truck is distinguished by its modest fuel consumption, so the truck was even included in the Guinness Book of Records as the most economical truck.
Car history
The truck appeared on the world stage not long ago. The debut model with a similar name was released in 1996. Shortly before its debut, the German company thought about modernizing its family of heavy-duty vehicles. The SK generation is already outdated in numerous ways.
The “indestructible” cargo vehicle was already losing demand, and the manufacturer’s first priority was to create something radically fresh and new. As a result, a new generation of Mercedes Benz Actros was released.
Mercedes-Benz Actros 1857
The development department took a revolutionary path. There was almost nothing in the design of the truck from the previous model. The debut generation was transformed, and a large amount of electronics began to be installed inside. This had an acceptable effect on the quality of operation and level of comfort, but reliability decreased.
The truck had a standard appearance and design for large vehicles - a massive cabin with a rectangular shape and a durable chassis. The company of workers from Germany did not forget about the corporate style.
The bow of the cabin received a powerful radiator grille, which is typical for the company's cars, as well as a massive company nameplate.
First generation
The debut family of trucks was released in 1995. The vehicles were produced in the form of truck tractors with different wheel designs. For example, it was 2x4, 2x6, 8x8, etc. The first generation was equipped with two types of V-six power units, the power of which varied from 310 to 460 “horses”.
The supply of PLD fuel was provided. By the way, it was the latter system that caused the greatest number of dissatisfaction from drivers. Despite the fact that the system is scrupulous about the quality of fuel, it still suffers from malfunctions. Specific gearboxes were provided for the new vehicle.
First generation Mercedes-Benz Actros dump truck
Initially, trucks came with manual gearboxes. However, after a while, electronically tuned gearboxes were added to them, which received (16 gears). Like its rivals, the German had several types of cabins.
For example, when using a dump truck, a simplified cabin was installed, which did not have a sleeping bag, and when purchasing a tractor intended for transporting cargo over long distances, enlarged cabins were installed, where there was one or a pair of sleeping places. The massive cabins were called "MegaSpace".
Despite the shortcomings that arose with the first generation electronic system, the Mercedes Actros tractor was able to sell in huge quantities throughout European countries. In part, this was achieved through competitive prices. In addition, special versions were produced for the United States of America and Russia.
“Our” German trucks were distinguished by the presence of a reinforced chassis, a fuel line heating function and sophisticated noise and thermal insulation. It took the company 4 years to solve problems with electronics.
Second generation
5 years later (2000), a new version of the Actros MP2 series was released. In reality, the cargo vehicle was a redesigned modification of the vehicle of the first family (MP2 - Modellpflege 2, or “redesigned model 2”). From an external point of view, the car has hardly changed, but has become more reliable.
Nevertheless, the MP2’s reputation as a “problem” truck persisted for many more years. Since the beginning of 2001, the conveyor enterprise began producing Actros of the 2nd generation. A lot of attention was paid to the new car's reliability - exactly what was a sore subject for the owners.
In addition, the environmental standards of power units have improved, the level of comfort inside, handling, etc. have increased. As before, V-shaped, 6-cylinder power units were installed on the truck, which already met Euro-3 standards.
The engine service interval was increased; the oil needed to be changed once every 100,000 km. In addition to the V-shaped six-cylinder engine with a volume of 12 liters, the second generation Mercedes Actros had a V-shaped eight-cylinder engine with a volume of 16 liters.
It produced 580 horsepower. For the transmission, a gearbox was used, which had a Tellegent system and 16 speeds. The purpose of the car was also taken into account, so they installed direct or overdrive gear.
In 2004, the cargo tractor received the prestigious “Truck of the Year in Europe” award, which allowed it to “wash away” the already boring stereotype that was passed on from the first generation of the model.
Depending on which model the consumer chose, there were several types of cabins to choose from. The following options were provided: where there was no “sleeping bag” - for dump trucks, a standard cabin - for short trips, and an improved one - where there was more free space. In addition to such implementations, a list of useful changes has been made to the suspension. Photo
In particular, the model gained new springs in front, as well as a new bridge. A new steering system was also installed. All this could increase the stability of the truck on the road.
While the 2nd version of the Mercedes Benz Actros was being produced, the engineering staff of the German company did not cease to quarrel with the already boring label of unreliable cars. It is worth admitting that they succeeded.
Third generation
After another 3 years (2008), a modernized variation of the Mercedes Benz Actros truck (MP3) was presented in Germany. The update had major changes in the design and construction components.
If we talk about the cabin of the truck, it has grown in size and now looks more distinct through the use of a massive U-shaped radiator grille, where there is a place for the brand logo, which has grown in size, sharp vertical headlights and a dynamic bumper.
The new truck looks nicer. Speaking about the design of the model, it has been radically changed. Since 2008, a full-fledged automated gearbox has been installed on a tractor or dump truck.
By that time, no truck manufacturer could boast of similar capabilities. Since 2010, the model began to be produced in the Russian Federation at the facilities of the joint Daimler and KAMAZ plant in the city of Naberezhnye Chelny.
After the first high title of “Truck of the Year,” the company tried to win this rating every time. The model, released in 2008, received exactly this rating at the Hannover IAA 2008 exhibition. Of course, there was no revolution in the third family.
Changes in the third generation
The engineering staff decided that it was better not to “reinvent the wheel”, but to modernize existing elements. We can confidently say that they did everything right. I would like to confidently say that now the truck can “breathe deeply” - such feelings appear when you look at the modernized radiator grille, which no longer looks like a dark spot in the central part of the cabin.
After the update, the visor began to consist of 3 areas - a central one and two side ones. Moreover, the two side ones are adjusted independently from each other, separately for the driver and the passenger sitting next to him, which is a convenient thing.
The appearance of the bumper has been slightly changed. The petticoat began to have aerodynamic holes, which were installed on sports cars. The headlights integrated into the bumper now have a chrome trim, which adds shine to the car.
Of course, our review may be a truck, but it’s a Mercedes! The changes also affected the deflectors installed on the sides, which direct air to the doors. The rear view mirrors have been affected. They decided to combine them with a common convex body, which was installed to reduce aerodynamic drag.
Inside, the model has many different drawers, shelves and glove compartments for every taste and color. The addition is the presence of a refrigerator, a towel holder, a shaving mirror - everything you have at home. There are no problems with the equipment of the berth.
The standard equipment includes a pair of orthopedic mattresses for two beds. Modern high-quality materials were used in production. The driver's seat is comfortable and has a high backrest. Various settings are available to suit any driver.
The steering wheel column is also adjustable in tilt and height. A pneumatic clamp is responsible for fixing the steering column. The dashboard turns out to go around the driver's seat in a semicircle, so switching different modes and driving the car is not difficult. The instrument panel is a small type and has a large information display.
Engine
The third generation is equipped with V-shaped six- and eight-cylinder engines that have already proven themselves well in the previous family. There is a lot to choose from among the capacities. For example, V6, 12-liter engines can develop from 320 to 476 horses.
Power units with a volume of 16 liters already produce from 510 to 598 horsepower. Power plants meet Euro 4 and 5 standards, thanks to the use of SCR technology, as well as AdBlue reagent.
Transmission
The standard equipment has a robotic automatic transmission Mercedes-Benz PowerShift 2 12-speed. It turns out that the 3rd generation model became the first car that comes with an automatic transmission as standard.
Suspension
The suspension is pneumatic and works in conjunction with the cab suspension. It copes well with minor uneven road surfaces.
Brake system
The braking mechanisms are effective and, together with the Telligent system, they tenaciously slow down the car, regardless of whether the car is driving empty or loaded. Dual-circuit pneumatic disc mechanisms are responsible for this. There are ABS and ASR systems.
Mercedes Actros tractors - a brief overview of the truck line
Mercedes Actros trucks have been in production since 1996 and are very popular.
This line is characterized, first of all, by high reliability and maneuverability, and is also equipped with the most modern electronic systems in accordance with the latest technology standards. These trucks quickly conquered the European and world markets thanks to true German quality and approach to the production process. The line includes trucks weighing from 18 to 41 tons, which are capable of transporting serious cargo over long distances. Actros are quite durable vehicles and can overcome various obstacles without problems, and have also proven themselves to be excellent in difficult terrain. True, before these cars gained worldwide fame and popularity, 4 generations of these trucks were born. With the release of each new generation, the Mercedes concern carefully worked on the errors in previous models and tried to eliminate their shortcomings. In new versions of tractors, new functions and capabilities appeared, the engine and other key components of the vehicle were improved. The company placed the main emphasis on automating the control of all main components of the car using modern information and computer technologies. And in this regard, I made no mistake, since this approach brought success. The main advantages of Mercedes Actros trucks:
- high level of reliability;
- real German production quality;
- the ability to overcome various obstacles and high maneuverability;
- equipment according to all the latest technology standards;
- high automation of all main processes.
It is these components that have made this line a leader among tractors all over the world. To see this for yourself, just watch, for example, a short video review that demonstrates all the main advantages of one of the models in this line. Here you can also see a high level of comfort in the cabin, a modern display and much more.
Fourth generation
Already in 2012, the German company was able to once again surprise all the inhabitants of the Earth by demonstrating the fourth version of the Mercedes Actros. This model has become one of the most ambitious. The size of investments exceeded $1,000,000,000.
A modular configuration system was used as the basis of the car. All versions have 3 equipment packages installed (Top, Classic, Basic), which differ in the list of equipment. When forming the package, it was applied to all systems, such as interior, security, body and others.
The appearance of IV has now become more brutal. The unusual block headlights, shaped like a boomerang, added their own twist. The line of power units began to have unique, very economical engines that meet Euro-6 environmental standards.
Today, the family has versions with wheel formulas 4x2, 4x4, 6x2 and 6x4, several cab versions, a couple of chassis modifications and different types of attachments and bodies.
This solution made it possible to significantly expand the scope of application of a cargo vehicle, providing the opportunity to select a specific vehicle to suit your specific needs.
Appearance
In principle, it is described briefly - attractive, with “flying” aerodynamic lines. The exterior is called unique, instantly recognizable, which can impress, just like the car itself as a whole. The image of the model was specially designed for truck drivers.
Powerful, masculine and dynamic features were emphasized. The bow has almost no straight lines and a smooth surface. Mercedes Actros IV has soft curves. The solid appearance of the new product can be better seen when viewed from an angle. At that moment, we see a proportional transition from the front area of the cabin to the side.
The fourth generation of the brand new German Aktros spent about 2,600 hours in the wind tunnel. No other car can boast such demanding aerodynamic development and testing.
During the design process, the design staff decided to pay considerable attention to the aerodynamic component. It is thanks to improvements in this area that it was possible to reduce fuel consumption when compared to the model of the previous family, which was also very economical.
Cabin interior
The driver's seat is extremely comfortable. Thanks to the asymmetrical arrangement of the instrument panel, you understand that the company is worried about the level of comfort of the person sitting behind the steering wheel - any key, like the switches, is installed at arm's length. Therefore, to operate any devices and elements, there is no need to bend over.
This allows you not to be distracted from driving. When you look at the dashboard, you will realize that you don’t just see it, but feel it with your eyes. Each arrow, each mark on the instrument scale attracts the eye. This panel can be admired again and again.
But you need to watch the road and turn that so familiar, but still steering wheel. Adjusting the steering wheel is absolutely simple - press the button under your left foot. Now you can play with the steering column - it is movable in all directions. Of course, the manufacturer did not forget that truck drivers drive in pairs - Mercedes made a very interesting option - SoloStar Concept.
This option is aimed at improving the comfort of two drivers traveling at the same time, however, the passenger will be even more pleased, because he has an entire cabin with a flat floor at his disposal. Yes, we can say that the Mercedes cabin is almost an apartment with all the amenities. Driving in such a cabin is a pleasure!
Flight computer
The Germans decided that the presence of white backlighting would please drivers more than the fashionable blue one. It is worth saying that they were not mistaken! Graphic images are displayed on the color display of the on-board computer. The latter received a simple and intuitive menu.
In the case when the car is equipped with a rear visibility camera, the video from it is sent to the display, which in the basic configuration is 10.4 centimeters wide. The optional Highline version has all 12.7 centimeters. On it you can also find information about a specific flight and recommendations on choosing a driving style from the FleetBoard EcoSupport service.
The new flagship of cargo vehicles has 4 variations of driver's seats - hard, with suspension, increased comfort with suspension and luxury with suspension and heating. The partner has 3 variations for himself - a basic (hard) seat, with suspension and with suspension and heating.
New features in cabin design and comfort
Since 2012, the option to order a seat with a massage function has been available. When you press a special key, seven air bags will start working. If necessary, it is allowed to repeat this process many times.
The new product has two variations of heaters - the power of the first is 3.8 kW, which is provided only for the cabin, and the second, designed for 9 kW. The latter is provided for the cabin and premature heating of the power unit.
Among the new items in Division 4 is the optional function of using the remaining engine heat to warm the cabin. The system operates for two hours after the power unit is turned off.
According to the company, this should be enough for a short break without starting the additional heater. The standard system includes Tempmatic air conditioning service, which has automatic temperature control.
It is interesting that the universal chassis of the car allows it to be used not only as a tractor, but also as a motor home.
You simply cannot remain indifferent to the GigaSpace cabin, which significantly increases the available space in the cabin. This is partly achieved by the 11.6 cubic liters of volume, flat floor, high ceiling (2.13 meters) and more than 900 liters of storage space.
The driver's work area was decorated in a pragmatic anthracite color scheme. The interior has the highest class finishing materials, a luxurious driver's seat, comfortable sleeping areas, a multifunctional steering wheel, a practical and stylish instrument panel, and asymmetrical compartments for storing essential items above the windshield.
Specifications
Engine
The Germans equipped the truck with brand new powerful power units of the new BlueEfficiency Power family, which were deliberately designed for the European standard Euro 6. The Mercedes-Benz OM 471 is a six-cylinder in-line engine that develops from 421 to 510 horsepower at 2,100-2 500 Nm of torque.
Among the innovations, I would also like to note the appearance of the Common Rail X-PULSE (power system), which has a pressure booster. The maximum hydraulic line pressure of 900 bar in the injector is increased to 2,100 bar and adjusted in order to achieve the required characteristics of the power unit.
For supercharging, there is a turbocharger, which has an asymmetrical housing. This has a positive effect on the elasticity of the motor. Speaking of the engine brake, it has a decompression valve, which is designed in such a way as to guarantee maximum operating efficiency.
The three-stage engine brake received a maximum braking force of 400 kW. In order to comply with the most stringent Euro 6 environmental standards, the Germans have designed a coupled emission control function.
SCR technology provides injection of the chemical additive AdBlue without the use of compressed air and the function of circulating cooled exhaust gases (EGR) with a particle filter.
Average fuel consumption is 28.5 liters per 100 kilometers. There are 4 different fuel tanks to choose from, with capacities ranging from 290 to 1,300 liters. This includes the presence of a combined two-chamber reagent for diesel fuel, AdBlue.
Transmission
Torque is transmitted to the rear wheels using a full-fledged automated gearbox Mercedes PowerShift 2, which is equipped with highly sensitive shift sensors that provide a faster and more accurate response to changing conditions on the road surface.
These can be 12 or 16-speed gearboxes. As an alternative, 4 sixteen-speed gearboxes are installed, where there is a standard gear shift. The axles mounted at the rear received longer gear ratios, which made it possible to operate at lower speeds - in other words, you can save fuel.
For vehicles with power from 510 to 598 “horses”, the HL 8 hypoid axle is used, which is characterized by increased strength. Models up to 480 horsepower and Actros Low-Liner variants, as well as cars with low frames, received an HL 6 axle.
As a separate option, there is a drive axle with wheel speeds HL 7. Thanks to it, it is possible to reduce the turning radius and increase the comfort of driving a cargo vehicle.
New Mercedes Benz Actros trucks were tested for 20,000,000 kilometers before being put into mass production. Tests took place in various climatic and road conditions. Apart from the German company, no one else checks their own cars so carefully.
Suspension
Experts highly appreciated the maneuverability, confidence and ease of driving of the IV generation Mercedes-Benz Actros. No other truck offers such stability, confidence and ease of handling. In part, German engineers managed to achieve this by installing a different frame, which was now wider and stiffer.
It was developed for highway trucks. The basic designs, which have already been tried and tested, remain the same, but the development department has made minor changes to the steering and suspension systems, resulting in improved safety and driving comfort.
Many cars have air suspension with two air springs. Onboard models have the same air suspension with 4 air springs. The latter, in addition, have a body vibration control system, which provides increased safety and comfort of movement.
The presence of parabolic springs, which are used in the car’s suspension, is also confirmed. Moreover, they received reliable corrosion protection and were optimized for weight. All versions have axle stabilizers and shock absorbers.
Brake system
The brake mechanisms guarantee extremely short braking distances using ASR, ABS, and also thanks to the presence of internally ventilated disc brakes. The service operates with constant pressure in the brake drive (10 atmospheres).
An additional braking system is also present. She is able to react to potential danger in a short time and provide the car with sharp braking. During deceleration, those brake mechanisms that are not worn out work, except for those moments when braking occurs to a full stop.
The lineup
Model range of Mercedes trucks.
The line of trucks includes several items. Let’s take a closer look at the most popular representatives in the Russian Federation.
Actros
This is a series of heavy duty trucks and tractors. Their total weight is 18–25 tons. The Mercedes Actros truck tractor was born in 1996. Seven years later, the manufacturer changed its model range. But you can still find old versions of the truck on the roads. The most “favorite” model among drivers is 1840.
Today the company produces the Aktros truck tractor with several wheel configurations: 4 by 2, 4 by 4, 6 by 2, 6 by 4. There are also two versions of truck chassis (4 by 2 and 6 by 2). Their total weight reaches 35 tons. Special equipment and dump bodies are installed on the base.
The car interior is equipped with an electronic technical control system. Service mileage reaches 150 thousand kilometers.
Arocs
It is presented with a two-axle wheel formula 4 by 2 and 4 by 4. The three-axle model has a lifting axle, the formula here is 6 by 2. There are 4-axle models (8 by 2, 8 by 4, 8 by 8). Cars are equipped with engines of 7.7 volume; 10.7; 12.8; 15.6 liters. This makes it possible to get as many as eighteen power options! The main advantage is the development of torque at 800 rpm.
Atego
A medium-duty truck recognized in Europe. Total weight – 6.5–26 tons. It hit the assembly line in 1998, six years later the car underwent rebranding. Today, cars are equipped with four- and six-cylinder engines. Their volume is 4.25–6.37 liters. Power reaches 279 hp. With. Distinctive features of the model are low fuel consumption and unpretentiousness. Atego won Truck of the Year in 1999.
Zetros
Works in total off-road conditions. Among drivers it is called a “tank”. It is used in the energy sector, oil production, helps extinguish forest fires, and transports goods and people along roads where other vehicles slip.
The car cabin is designed for 3 people, with a sleeping place. There are also delights: upholstered furniture, refrigerator, air conditioning. Some configurations include a built-in bathroom, microwave, table, bar and... coffee maker! There are four additional headlights and an air intake on the roof. There are blue and red flashing lights on the radiator grille.
Unimog
Mercedes Unimog.
One of the most outlandish products, the car of the future. They created a truck for agricultural work in 1945. Today, a car can “walk” on railway routes (with special equipment).
It moves easily over rough terrain and is capable of towing a trailer weighing up to a thousand tons. Power – from 156 to 299 hp. With. The speed reaches 90 kilometers per hour.
Advantages and disadvantages
Pros of the car
- Innovative and stylish appearance;
- Nice front part of the car;
- New light amplification systems;
- Abundance of chrome parts;
- High-quality assembly;
- Expensive and high-quality materials;
- Comfortable and large cabin;
- Comfortable seats with many adjustments;
- Pleasant steering wheel, which also has numerous settings;
- One of the best safe trucks;
- A large number of cabins and modifications to choose from;
- You can choose the power unit and gearbox;
- Powerful power plants;
- Very economical engine that meets European Euro-6 standards;
- A lot of different sensors;
- Various systems designed to help the driver when driving a truck;
- Smart automatic transmission;
- Tested car (20,000,000 kilometers);
- Excellent even basic equipment;
- Excellent aerodynamic characteristics;
- Good dynamics;
- Informative instrument panel;
- There is a lot of free space inside;
- Reliable diesel engines;
- New fuel injection system – X-Pulse;
- There is an electronic maintenance system for the Telligent machine, which monitors the normal functioning of all the most important units, components and mechanisms.
Buy a Mercedes-Benz Axor 1843L S tractor
]"Auto-Flit"[/anchor] provides a wide range of all types of trucks and semi-trailers. Our equipment undergoes pre-sale training, which guarantees high-quality and uninterrupted operation.
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