Santiago, Chile – Mercedes-Benz Trucks delivered its first eActros 600, a fully electric long-haul truck, to Empresas Cavalieri earlier this week, marking a significant step in the adoption of zero-emission freight transport in South America. The vehicle will operate along the Santiago–Viña del Mar route in the Valparaíso region, transporting beverages for Compañía de Cervecerías Unidas (CCU), one of the largest beverage producers in Chile and the region.
The delivery represents the initial deployment of the eActros 600 in Chile, with six additional units slated for delivery to other customers in the coming weeks, according to Daimler Truck AG. The eActros 600 boasts a range of 500 kilometers (approximately 310 miles) on a single charge, enabling it to complete the Santiago-Viña del Mar route without requiring mid-route charging stops.
CCU’s decision to integrate the eActros 600 into its fleet was influenced not only by operational efficiency but also by Chile’s ambitious climate goals. “Chile is one of the most severely affected regions by climate change and has set ambitious climate protection goals and programs,” Daimler stated. The country aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and currently relies heavily on renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
The eActros 600 is equipped with over 600 kWh of total battery capacity, utilizing three 207 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery packs. Mercedes-Benz selected LFP chemistry for its durability, high usable energy content, and projected service life of up to 1.2 million kilometers (750,000 miles). Power is delivered through an 800-volt electric drive axle, developed internally by Mercedes-Benz/Daimler Trucks, featuring two electric motors and a dedicated heavy-duty transmission. The powertrain generates up to 600 kW (approximately 805 hp) and is capable of hauling up to 40 tons.
The introduction of the eActros 600 in Chile follows its launch in the country last year and production at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth, Germany, beginning in late 2024. The truck is already operating in over 15 European countries. Kaufmann S.A. Serves as the local distribution partner, also marketing the earlier-generation eActros 300/400 models.
Mercedes-Benz Trucks views Chile as a key market for the eActros 600 in South America, capitalizing on the country’s commitment to renewable energy and its vulnerability to climate change. The company has not yet announced further expansion plans for the eActros 600 to other South American markets.