The launch of the new Actros V8 prime mover sees Mercedes Benz Trucks put a definitive price on safety, with
The launch of the new Actros V8 prime mover sees Mercedes Benz Trucks put a definitive price on safety, with its full safety package adding $14,500 to the base price of the new release.
Buyers can specify the full package which includes a Voith Retarder, Proximity Control cruise control and Telligent Lane Assist, in addition to the Telligent Brake System with ABS and EBS braking and ASR traction control, and driver’s airbag, pre-tensioner seatbelt and a cabin smoke alarm.
On-road testing of the safety package reveals the new Actros to be a simple to operate truck, able to stop from 60 km/h quickly and safely, even when fully laden.
The Lane Assist system uses side mounted cameras to detect lane markings, and any crossing of the lines without first activating the indicators, triggers an audible buzzer through the radio speakers on that side of the truck, to provide the driver with an instant warning of what is happening.
The Proximity Control system detects objects that move in front of the truck, and automatically adjusts the vehicle speed to match the vehicle in front, as well as resuming the original speed if it moves out of range of the radar.
Despite the improvements in truck safety however, there are calls for all new trailers to be fitted with similar braking equipment, to ensure they are able to perform as well as the prime mover.
Romesh Rodrigo, Mercedes Benz Manager of Product and Sales Engineering, says while there have been upgrades in specifications with changes to ADR 38, fitting EBS brakes would make empty combinations safer.
Rodrigo says it is very unusual to see a fully laden trucks and trailer lock its brakes, because of the improvements, it is still a common sight for an unladen trailer to lock its brakes, even when connected to a ‘smart’ truck like the Actros, because it is not fitted with the latest brake technology to communicate with the prime mover.