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NEWS
BTS: Mercedes-Benz launches new generation rigid range
Following hot on the heels of its new prime movers, Mercedes-Benz has launched an all-new range of rigid trucks at the Brisbane Truck ShowHaving successfully introduced its new generation of prime movers in October last year, Mercedes-Benz has shown a new family of versatile rigid models covering everything from distribution to waste applications.
Just like the prime mover models, the rigid models bring a heap of new technology including Euro 6 emission ratings, fuel economy savings, reduced AdBlue consumption, advanced safety technology and new levels of comfort and refinement.
Mjercedes-Benz says that the new rigid model range was part of a comprehensive local testing program that has now included more than 35 customers, 20 trucks and more than 1.8 million kilometres.
This second phase of the new generation Mercedes-Benz truck introduction includes on-road rigid models, while the third phase, set for late this year, will see the introduction of the construction and all-wheel-drive rigid models ready for off-road work.
Mercedes-Benz director, Michael May, says the rigid range introduction follows on from the successful introduction of the prime mover range.
“We have had some fantastic feedback from customers of our new generation prime movers who are extremely pleased with the performance and economy they are delivering,” May said today.
“We are now ready for the second stage of our roll out, with our rigid distribution line-up set to deliver a new standard of efficiency, reliability and versatility for our customers.”
The rigid model line-up introduced in Brisbane runs from a 12-tonne rigid city distribution unit through to a 32-tonne 8x4 model that can be used for palletised freight, equipment haulage or waste work.
Mercedes-Benz says that advanced technology is at the heart of the new generation rigid trucks, with new engine families helping to deliver performance increases and fuel economy improvements.
Customers can choose from 8-litre and 11-litre units for the rigid range, although powerful 13-litre and 16-litre engines are also available for individual builds.|
All of the engines feature asymmetric turbocharging as well as X-Pulse high pressure direct injection technology, which both help more usable torque and assist with low speed drivability.
They also feature a new engine brake with up to 340kW of power, although a water retarder can increase the available braking force to a total of 750kW.
The 8-litre six-cylinder engine is available with either 299hp or 354hp, while the 11-litre unit is available with ratings of 394hp, 428hp or 455hp.
The company believes the wide spread of available engines will cover a huge range of applications.
Fully automated transmissions are standard across the rigid range.
These eight-speed and 12-speed transmissions feature faster shifting and a new crawler gear for low speed work.
There are three different cab groups, starting with the smaller 2.3m S Classic Space for the 1630L 4x2 medium duty distribution model, moving up to the 2.3m M Classic Space for 2530 and 2535L 6x2 heavy duty distribution and capping off with the 2.3m M Classic Space for the 6x4 and 8x4 heavy duty distribution and vocational models. Sleeper cabs and rear seat options are available on some models.
Mercedes-Benz tells us that it has developed new cabs and chassis for the rigid range, delivering better stability and roadholding as well as improved refinement and comfort.
All of the cabs meet the strict Swedish cab test and come standard with roof-mounted air-horns, remote locking, electric mirrors and a locally-developed touchscreen sat nav and audio unit with DVD player and Bluetooth connectivity.
The new driver-focused interior delivers a big improvement in refinement levels, with controls located well within reach of the driver. Several items can now be controlled using the steering wheel controls.
Customers can also option up the cabins with interior style packs and are able to choose the wood-look/velour Home Line treatment or the metal-look chrome Style Line treatment.
The new rigid range comes standard with an electronic braking system, with key models incorporating stability control assist, hill hold assist and traction control. Models 18-tonne and above are also available with optional advanced safety systems including Active Brake Assist 4, which automatically performs emergency braking for most obstacles and can now initiate partial braking for pedestrians.
Mercedes-Benz is offering a complimentary servicing program for key on-highway new generation rigid models. The coverage for medium models includes Best Basic servicing for two years/250,000km and five years/500,00km for heavy duty models.
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Written byTrucksales Staff
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Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
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