Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019: Innovation and Safety in Trucking

Mercedes-Benz, a globally renowned truck manufacturer, recently unveiled the 3rd generation of the Actros truck series in Berlin, Germany, just before the IAA 2018 exhibition in Hannover. The Actros, a heavy-duty tractor, is one of Mercedes-Benz’s most successful models, with an impressive 1.2 million units sold worldwide since its launch in 1996. The 2019 Actros introduces a technological revolution, promising to elevate the trucking experience to a new level.

Newest generation Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019 tractor

Building on two successful generations (1996-2011 and 2011-2018), the third-generation 2019 Actros is equipped with a range of advanced technologies, focusing on driver assistance and enhanced safety. These improvements not only provide optimal operational efficiency but also create comfort and peace of mind for drivers on long-haul journeys.

Active Drive Assist: A Leap Towards Automated Transportation

The Active Drive Assist system is considered the biggest breakthrough of the 2019 Actros, surpassing its predecessor and competitors in the tractor segment. Active Drive Assist offers a low level of “self-driving” capability to the truck, a significant advancement in the field of trucking.

Active Drive Assist system on the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019 tractor

The highlight of Active Drive Assist is its ability to automatically brake, accelerate, and steer independently across the entire speed range. Unlike previous driver assistance systems that were limited to certain speeds, Active Drive Assist operates more flexibly and efficiently. To achieve this capability, Mercedes-Benz has integrated micro-controllers, combining longitudinal and lateral vehicle control data from radar and cameras. Mercedes-Benz proudly claims that the 2019 Actros is the first tractor in the world equipped with this advanced driver assistance system, solidifying its leading position in trucking technology.

Active Brake Assist 5: Unmatched Safety Enhancement in All Situations

Safety is always a top priority in trucking, and the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019 does not disappoint. The Active Brake Assist 5 emergency braking system is a major advancement in safety technology, helping to minimize the risk of accidents and protect the driver, vehicle, and cargo.

Active Brake Assist 5 emergency braking system on the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019 tractor

Active Brake Assist 5 works effectively in emergency situations such as the risk of collision with the vehicle in front, pedestrians suddenly crossing the road, or other dangerous situations. The system also uses a combination of radar and cameras to monitor the space in front of the vehicle, allowing it to react more quickly and accurately to dangerous situations. With Active Brake Assist 5, trucking becomes safer than ever.

MirrorCam: Smart Rearview Mirrors Change the Game

Another notable improvement on the 2019 Actros is the MirrorCam intelligent rearview mirror system. Replacing traditional optical rearview mirrors with cameras and displays in the cabin, MirrorCam not only enhances aesthetics but also provides many practical benefits for trucking.

MirrorCam rearview mirror system on the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019 tractor

MirrorCam significantly improves the aerodynamics of the truck, reducing drag and saving fuel. Images from the cameras are transmitted sharply to the in-cabin displays, helping the driver see better in all weather and lighting conditions. This technology also eliminates blind spots, enhancing safety when changing lanes and turning, which is especially important in trucking on busy roads.

Powerful and Fuel-Efficient Engines

The Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019 is equipped with a powerful OM 473 engine, producing 625 horsepower, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. The Mercedes PowerShift 3 dual-clutch transmission with 12 gears ensures smooth and efficient operation. Notably, the fuel efficiency of the 2019 Actros has been significantly improved, down 5% compared to its predecessor.

Modern and comfortable cabin of the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019 tractor

The new Actros’s fuel consumption is reduced by 3% on highways and up to 5% on country roads. To achieve this impressive result, Mercedes-Benz has applied many aerodynamic improvements, including camera rearview mirrors and new rear spoilers. The Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC) system also plays an important role in optimizing fuel consumption, especially useful for long-haul trucking. PPC can be used on even small national roads thanks to expanded map data.

Comfortable and Connected Cabin

As a long-haul tractor, the cabin of the Actros 2019 has been designed by Mercedes-Benz with particular attention to the human-machine interface (HMI) principle, providing maximum comfort for the driver. The Multimedia Cockpit infotainment system with two modern displays, integrated into the driver’s compartment, supports Apple CarPlayTM and Android Auto connectivity.

Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019 tractor cab with Multimedia Cockpit

The Actros 2019 is also permanently connected to the Cloud – the truck’s data center, providing applications to assist the driver in the trucking process. These applications help look up information, locate places, find support in case of problems, and many other utilities. The remote control key also provides convenience for the driver during operation.

Conclusion

The Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019 is a major step forward in the field of trucking. With a series of improvements in technology, safety, performance, and comfort, the Actros 2019 is not only a powerful truck but also a reliable companion on every road. Advanced technologies such as Active Drive Assist, Active Brake Assist 5, and MirrorCam not only improve operational efficiency but also provide a safer and more enjoyable driving experience, meeting all the needs of the modern trucking industry.

Front view of the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2019 tractor