The arrival of Mercedes-Benz's eActros electric semi-trucks in Chile marks a significant milestone in the company's South American expansion. The first delivery was made to Compañía de Cervecerías Unidas (CCU), one of the largest beverage producers in Chile and South America, who opted for the electric truck due to its range and environmental benefits. With a range of 500 km, the eActros trucks will enable CCU to complete several of their existing routes without needing to stop and charge, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.
The decision to go electric was also influenced by Chile's ambitious climate protection goals and programs. The country aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and is considered one of the most promising markets for renewable energy worldwide. With solar and wind power already accounting for a large share of the country's energy supply, the adoption of electric trucks like the eActros is seen as a key step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 packs more than 600 kWh of total battery capacity from three 207 kWh LFP battery packs. The LFP chemistry was chosen for its high usable energy content, durability in high-speed charging, and long projected service life. With a target durability of up to 1.2M kilometers, the eActros is designed to withstand the demands of heavy long-haul work.
The batteries send power to an 800-volt electric drive axle developed by Mercedes/Daimler Trucks, which integrates two electric motors and a heavy-duty transmission. This setup enables the eAxles to produce up to 600 kW of power, making it suitable for hauling up to 40 tons of combined vehicle weight over long distances.
The eActros trucks are being deployed in Chile as part of a growing trend towards electrification in the trucking industry. With more than 40 different configurations available, customers can choose the exact truck they need to meet their specific requirements. This flexibility is expected to lead to increased adoption of electric trucks like the eActros on South American roads.
The deployment of electric trucks like the eActros also highlights the importance of efficient charging infrastructure. With megawatt charging capabilities, the batteries can be quickly juiced up and loads can be returned to service with minimal downtime. This reduces the overall cost of ownership and increases the truck's economic viability.
As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, companies like Mercedes-Benz are playing a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation. The eActros trucks are an important step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the impact of climate change on South American communities.
The arrival of the eActros trucks in Chile marks a significant milestone in the company's commitment to sustainability. With six more units scheduled for delivery in the coming weeks, it is clear that Mercedes-Benz is serious about expanding its electric truck offerings in the region.
As the trucking industry continues to evolve, companies like CCU and Mercedes-Benz are leading the way towards a more sustainable future. The adoption of electric trucks like the eActros will have a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy in Chile and beyond.
