Mercedes-Benz Trucks has secured a Guinness World Record with its battery-electric eActros 600, becoming the first electric truck to complete the longest reverse drive ever recorded. The eActros 600 reversed 124.7 kilometers (77.5 miles) without interruption, beating the previous diesel-powered record of 89 kilometers (55.3 miles) set in 2020. This milestone, officially certified by Guinness World Records, took place on May 22, 2024, at the Motorsport Arena Oschersleben, Germany.
Record-Breaking Attempt: Logistics, Driver Control, and Safety Monitoring
The test was conducted on a track with 14 tight turns, simulating distribution center conditions. The truck was loaded to its rated 40-ton total weight. Professional driver Marco Hellgrewe maintained reverse speeds of 10–20 km/h (6.2–12.4 mph) over varying surfaces.
After completing the track, the eActros 600 continued in reverse on public roads for an additional 30 kilometers (18.6 miles), with a police escort. Verification was conducted using GPS tracking, onboard diagnostics, and multi-camera recordings.
Technical Specifications: Built for Consistency and Range
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 621 kWh (Lithium Iron Phosphate – LFP) |
| Motors | Dual PMSM (330 kW continuous, 400 kW peak) |
| Transmission | Four-speed direct-drive eAxle |
| Max Gross Vehicle Weight | 44 tons (88,000 lbs) |
| Typical Payload | Approx. 22 tons (48,500 lbs) |
| Regenerative Braking | Standard with variable braking thresholds |
| Charging Time (DC 400 kW) | 20–80% in under 1 hour |
Software, Sensors, and Safety: Enabling Extended Reverse Operation
The eActros 600 features key technologies supporting reverse maneuvers:
- Active Brake Assist 6 (ABA6) with rear object detection
- Blind Spot Camera Systems for real-time coverage
- Digital Rearview Mirrors for low-latency video feeds
- Stability Control System calibrated for reverse torque distribution
Its electric drivetrain and four-speed direct-drive axle allowed for continuous torque delivery, giving it an edge over diesel platforms that require complex transmission tuning during reverse motion.
