High torque right from the start, less noise in the cab – the eActros makes driving even more effortless and stress‑free. TruckTrainer Jean‑Luc Merck gives tips for getting started with electromobility.

Jean‑Luc Merck, all the preparations have been made and the new eActros is ready. Does this mean getting in and driving off?
Of course, the driver first gets all the help they need for the new drive system. This includes some of the theory on high‑voltage technology, a tour of the eActros and a view of the cab. The theory is followed by practice with an initial tour, during which we accompany the driver, give tips and answer questions.

How great is the adjustment in the cockpit?
The new drive system requires a few innovations, but that’s all doable. On the primary display, for example, the eActros shows a power meter instead of the rev counter: When the engine demands propulsion, the power meter shows the power consumption. If, on the other hand, the eActros is in a coasting phase or braking, the electric motors can be used as a power generator. The power meter then shows how much current is generated during this process – the recuperation.

Instead of the fuel gauge, there is now a battery charge indicator, which also includes information on the range. And if necessary, a menu for charging settings can be opened on the secondary display.

What is important when charging?
Because the routes are always planned, charging can also be well prepared. For example, I need to know: How many kilometres do I need to cover? What kind of uphill and, above all, downhill gradients are there on the way? “Filling up” is by no means absolutely necessary, because after all, I can recover energy via the continuous brake by means of recuperation: the kinetic energy of the vehicle is converted into electrical energy and fed back into the batteries. This can also be fine‑tuned using the five stages of the continuous brake. Additionally: if you don’t charge to 100% every day, you will extend the service life of the batteries. It’s the same as with a smartphone.

Does the driving experience change?
The driving experience is even more pleasant. The noise level is much lower than that of a combustion engine, and interruptions in tractive power are a lot less frequent, as the eActros only has two gears. The installation of the battery packs under the chassis also gives the eActros excellent roadholding. The anticipatory driving style and optimal use of the continuous brake for maximum recuperation are also very important.

How safe are the high‑voltage batteries?
We have taken all possible safety precautions for this. The measures include the battery management system, temperature monitoring, crash sensors and permanent insulation testing, to name but a few.

Everything to do with the eActros is designed to make handling the high‑voltage technology as practical and safe as possible. So for the driver it just means: getting in and enjoying the new driving experience!