Mercedes-benz Earocs 400 Completes Arctic Winter Tests Ahead Of European Debut

The new Mercedes-Benz eArocs 400 battery-electric construction truck has successfully completed intensive winter testing near the Arctic Circle, proving its readiness for year-round operation across Europe.

Tested in Finland in temperatures as low as –20°C, the all-electric heavy-duty truck was put through its paces on snow and ice-covered roads. The trials focused on traction, stability, cold-start performance, battery efficiency and charging behaviour under extreme sub-zero conditions.

According to Michael Kimmich, Head of Development for the eArocs 400, the truck delivered stable driving characteristics and met expected range and charging targets despite the harsh environment.

Built for Europe’s Toughest Conditions

Winter durability is critical for European operators, particularly in Nordic countries, Alpine regions and Central Europe, where construction fleets must operate reliably in freezing temperatures.

During testing, engineers evaluated:

• Traction and handling on snow and ice
• Battery performance in sub-zero conditions
• Charging capability in extreme cold
• Recuperation efficiency in winter driving
• Overall electric powertrain performance

The results will feed into final refinements ahead of series production.

The eArocs 400 will go on sale in April, with base vehicle production starting in Q3 2026 at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth am Rhein, Germany. Final integration of the electric powertrain will be completed by the Paul Group in Vilshofen an der Donau.

Designed for Urban Construction Transport

Mercedes-Benz Trucks unveiled the eArocs 400 at bauma 2025 in Munich, the world’s leading trade fair for construction machinery. The model is specifically developed for street-oriented construction transport in urban environments.

Initially, the truck will be offered in:

• 37-ton and 44-ton variants
• 8×4/4 axle configuration
• Four wheelbase options
• Concrete mixer or construction tipper versions

Thanks to its locally CO₂e-free operation and low noise levels, the eArocs 400 is well suited for:

• Low- and zero-emission zones across European cities
• Residential and hospital areas
• School and kindergarten zones
• Night-time construction work

With European cities tightening emissions regulations, electric heavy-duty trucks like the eArocs 400 offer a future-proof solution for construction fleets.

Battery, Range and Charging

The eArocs 400 adopts key components from the eActros portfolio, including lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology known for durability and high usable capacity.

Key specifications include:

– 800-volt electrical system
– Two battery packs
– 414 kWh total installed capacity
– Up to 200 km range (concrete mixer)
– Up to 240 km range (construction tipper)

For many European construction operations, this range is sufficient to complete a full working day without intermediate charging.

Charging is supported via CCS2 connectors mounted on both sides of the vehicle, with up to 400 kW DC fast charging capability. The battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 46 minutes.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks claims the eArocs 400 is at least 50% more energy efficient than a comparable diesel truck, thanks to higher drivetrain efficiency, recuperation and electrically powered auxiliaries.

Performance and Drivability

The truck features a powerful central electric drivetrain with an integrated 3-speed transmission:

– 380 kW continuous power
– 450 kW peak output

By combining the electric powertrain with proven hypoid and planetary axles from the conventional Arocs platform, the eArocs 400 maintains the ground clearance and off-road capability required for construction sites.

Tandem drive axles ensure strong traction both on-road and off-road, while the robust frame and steel suspension provide the durability expected in heavy-duty construction applications.

Digital Cockpit and Safety Systems

Inside, the eArocs 400 features the Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2 with improved ergonomics and voice control for easier operation in uneven terrain.

Advanced driver assistance systems include:

– Active Brake Assist 6 Plus
– Active Sideguard Assist 2
– Front Guard Assist

These systems enhance safety by improving hazard detection, braking response and visibility around the vehicle — particularly important in busy urban construction environments.

The M cab offers a fully galvanised structure, easy-care interior, additional storage and an optional bunk, while maintaining maximum manoeuvrability and body length.

Supporting Europe’s Decarbonisation Goals

As part of Daimler Truck AG’s broader sustainability strategy, Mercedes-Benz Trucks continues to expand its battery-electric portfolio to support the decarbonisation of road freight transport.

With stricter EU emissions targets and expanding low-emission zones across Europe, electric construction vehicles like the eArocs 400 are set to play a growing role in urban infrastructure projects.

The successful Arctic winter testing marks another step toward making zero-emission heavy-duty construction transport a practical reality for European operators.

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