Imagine a massive electric truck colliding with an object weighing over a tonne at speeds exceeding 50 km/h—and the battery remains unscathed. Sounds like science fiction? Well, Daimler Truck just made it a reality. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the company touts this as a breakthrough in safety, skeptics are already questioning whether such tests truly reflect real-world accident scenarios. Let’s dive into the details and decide for ourselves.
In a series of rigorous crash tests conducted in Neumünster, Schleswig-Holstein, Daimler Truck’s eActros 600 was put to the ultimate test—a side collision designed to simulate extreme conditions. The Stuttgart-based manufacturer emerged confident, declaring that the high-voltage battery modules remained intact, and the housing showed no critical deformations. This, they claim, is thanks to a specially engineered frame architecture built to withstand heavy-duty impacts. But how did they get here? Before the test, the team conducted simulation-based analyses and meticulously calibrated sensors to ensure accuracy.
Frank Müller, Head of Accident Research & Passive Safety at Mercedes-Benz Trucks, weighed in: “The mechanical stress was undeniably high, but our safety concept proved its reliability.” Interestingly, the tests didn’t stop at side collisions. Front crashes were also performed, with the goal of demonstrating how the reinforced cab and energy absorption zones dissipate impact forces through crash-optimized structures. Inside the truck, airbag systems and seatbelt tensioners spring into action, adding another layer of protection.
And this is the part most people miss: These crash tests are happening a full year after the eActros 600 entered series production. Why now? According to Mercedes-Benz Trucks, it’s all about enabling ‘continuous improvements’ and incorporating real-world field data into their designs. Their internal accident research team has been analyzing real-world accident data from the early stages of development, tailoring protective measures to typical heavy-duty accident scenarios.
Felix Pietler, a passive safety developer at Mercedes-Benz Trucks, emphasized, “From day one, we refused to compromise on vehicle safety. With electric trucks, it’s not just about protecting passengers—safeguarding the immediate surroundings is equally critical.” This raises a thought-provoking question: Are we doing enough to ensure the safety of both drivers and bystanders in the age of electric vehicles?
Now, let’s talk about the eActros 600 itself. Unveiled in October 2023, this XXL electric truck boasts a battery capacity of over 600 kilowatt-hours, giving it its name. It features a newly developed in-house electric drive axle with 400 kW continuous power and up to 600 kW peak power. The ‘front box,’ located in the former engine compartment, houses control units, high-voltage components, and an electric air compressor. With a range of 500 kilometers, the eActros 600 can be charged via CCS at up to 400 kW. And here’s the kicker: it’s future-proofed for megawatt charging once the MCS standard is finalized.
So, is Daimler Truck’s claim of an indestructible battery a game-changer, or is it an overpromise in a world of unpredictable road conditions? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Do these tests go far enough, or is there more work to be done? Let us know in the comments below!
