Mercedes-Benz Construction Truck Portfolio Showcases Power, Versatility, and Innovation Across All Terrains
Mercedes-Benz Trucks is showcasing the full breadth of its engineering expertise, innovative drive systems, and connectivity solutions through its robust lineup of construction vehicles. At a recent off-road demonstration in Ötigheim, Germany, the automaker provided a hands-on look at its construction vehicle lineup—including the Mercedes-Benz Arocs, Atego, Unimog U 5023, and the electric FUSO eCanter—each built to tackle specific challenges in construction, municipal, and urban environments.
From the heavy-duty, terrain-conquering Arocs to the nimble Atego for medium-duty tasks, and from the off-road legend Unimog to the environmentally conscious FUSO eCanter, Mercedes-Benz Trucks offers a tailored solution for nearly every application in the construction industry.
Arocs: The Powerhouse for Heavy-Duty Construction
At the heart of Mercedes-Benz’s heavy-duty construction segment is the Arocs—a truck built for the harshest conditions found on and off the job site. Whether navigating gravel pits, climbing steep slopes, fording deep water, or maneuvering through rugged terrain, the Arocs proves its mettle with a torsionally flexible and durable frame, high payload capacity, and various axle configurations (from 4×2 to 8×8), including new options like a nine-ton front axle and either steel or air-suspended axles.
The Arocs lineup features powerful Euro VI engines, including the OM 470, OM 471, and OM 473, which offer outputs of up to 460 kW (625 hp) while maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. Paired with the Powershift Advanced automatic transmission, the Arocs delivers fast, smooth gear shifts, ensuring efficient performance even under load.
For drivers who need extra traction without the full-time weight of an all-wheel-drive system, the Hydraulic Auxiliary Drive (HAD) provides temporary support during challenging conditions. Additionally, the turbo retarder clutch allows for wear-free starts and controlled braking on steep gradients, making the Arocs a valuable tool for extreme operations.
Advanced Safety and Driver Support Technologies
Mercedes-Benz places a high priority on safety, outfitting the Arocs with a suite of driver assistance systems. These include:
- Active Brake Assist 6, which can detect pedestrians and cyclists at intersections and initiate emergency braking.
- Active Sideguard Assist 2, which helps drivers avoid side collisions during turns.
- Adaptive cruise control, Lane Keeping Assist, and Attention Assist systems.
Lighting enhancements are also part of the safety package, with LED headlights now standard and full-LED variants offering even greater visibility. Optional stone guard grilles are available for operations where rugged durability is essential.
Digital Cockpit and Connectivity with TruckLive
Digitalization is transforming construction logistics, and the Arocs is keeping pace. Starting July, the latest models will come equipped with Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2—a fully digital dashboard that includes a central touchscreen for intuitive control over essential systems such as PTOs and safety features.
Additionally, TruckLive integration provides real-time data on vehicle navigation, maintenance, and fleet management. With remote over-the-air updates, fleet operators can maintain peak efficiency and operational readiness. Depending on the cab variant, the Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2 may be standard or optional in the EU market.
Atego: Compact and Agile for Medium-Duty and Urban Work
The Mercedes-Benz Atego targets a different segment—medium-duty construction and municipal tasks. Its compact cab and agile handling make it ideal for narrow city streets, confined construction sites, and public service operations. The Atego features a robust Euro VI engine and offers impressive fuel efficiency and reliability.
Safety systems such as Active Brake Assist 6, Sideguard Assist 2, Frontguard Assist, and other monitoring tools enhance both driver and pedestrian safety in complex environments. This makes the Atego particularly well-suited for waste collection, utility services, and small-scale material transport in urban centers.
Unimog U 5023 Double Cab: The Off-Road Specialist
When conditions get truly challenging, the Unimog U 5023 double cab steps in. Designed for fire brigades, disaster relief agencies, and construction work in remote or off-road locations, the Unimog features:
- Permanent all-wheel drive
- A fording depth of up to 1.2 meters
- Portal axles for maximum ground clearance
- Modular configuration for different use cases
With room for up to seven personnel, it functions as both a workhorse and crew transporter. Whether in rough forest terrain or on unstable ground, the Unimog maintains the brand’s reputation for unstoppable off-road capability.
Heritage Meets Innovation: LP 1519 and Arocs Extent Special Edition
Adding a nostalgic touch to the event was the Mercedes-Benz LP 1519, a 1965 truck model known for its boxy cab and air-suspended chassis. This iconic vehicle played a major role in shaping Europe’s trucking landscape in the 1970s and 1980s and was among the first produced at the company’s Wörth facility.
Balancing this heritage was the unveiling of the Mercedes-Benz Arocs Extent, a special-edition Arocs limited to just 100 units. Featuring dark chrome accents, weather grey paint, carbon-look details, and the advanced Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2, it bridges the gap between history and modern engineering excellence.
FUSO eCanter with Meiller Trigenius Tipper: Urban Electrification in Action
Urban construction and municipal work are increasingly moving toward sustainability. The FUSO eCanter, fitted with a Meiller Trigenius tipper, represents the brand’s commitment to electric mobility.
Key highlights include:
- An M-size battery pack and 3,400 mm wheelbase
- Dual AC (up to 22 kW) and DC (up to 104 kW) charging capabilities
- A fast DC charge from 20–80% in just 26 minutes
- Payload capacity of approx. 3.1 tons
With tight turning circles, compact dimensions, and clear visibility, the eCanter is tailor-made for urban delivery, landscaping, and construction services. A diesel-powered variant is still available for fleets not yet ready to transition to electric.
