Mercedes-Benz Arocs Performance Days: A truck to meet all needs: the fascinating versatility of the Mercedes-Benz Arocs in the construction sector

• Arocs: the highly specialised all-rounder among the heavy-duty construction vehicles
• More variants, more comfort and yet more safety: the #arocs 2017
• Numerous new features available: lower roof heights, new tilting hydraulics package ex factory, tyre pressure monitoring system
• Networked services: the diverse range of solutions from Fleetboard
• Mercedes-Benz Uptime also available for construction vehicles: avoid breakdowns, increase availability
• 4 engines, 18 output ratings and transmissions with 8, 12 and 16 gears
• Hydraulic Auxiliary Drive and turbo retarder clutch available for new vehicle variants
• Three all-wheel drive systems for the most diverse operating conditions 

It is as individual as the diverse tasks performed by operators in the construction sector: the Mercedes-Benz #arocs is a specialist covering the entire repertoire of construction transport. The broad range of cabs, engines, drive variants and wheel configurations ensures it is able to cope with all types of deployment. Tipper, materials transport or heavy-duty tractor unit – the #arocs fits the bill every time. New variants have been added to the #arocs this year, setting new benchmarks in practicability, efficiency and safety, as well as comfort. The #arocs Performance Days see the construction specialist demonstrating the full scope of its capabilities - on the road, in the gravel pit and in extreme terrain on the legendary "Sauberg" test circuit. Around a dozen #arocs are available for tests and demonstrations, from 4x2 to 8x8 and from tipper to concrete mixer. These vehicles are flanked by the Mercedes-Benz Actros, the Actros SLT heavy-haulage vehicle, the Atego and the Fuso Canter 4x4. Four classic trucks additionally represent Mercedes-Benz construction vehicles' long-standing traditions.

Arocs: the highly specialised all-rounder among the heavy-duty construction vehicles

It is the out-and-out pro for construction transport: the #arocs from Mercedes-Benz is a dedicated model series comprising heavy-duty trucks designed specifically for the construction sector. Four years after its world premiere, the #arocs is available in an extremely broad and continually growing range.

The #arocs is available in every conceivable wheel configuration - 4x2 and 4x4, three-axle 6x2 with trailing or leading axle, 6x4 and 6x6. Four-axle versions are available as 8x2 trucks with trailing axle, 8x4, 8x4 with trailing axle, 8x6 and 8x8. The scope of equipment and variants covers steel and air suspension, frames designed primarily for on- or off-road deployment, numerous wheelbases, cabs and engines, three all-wheel-drive systems, platform trucks, tippers, concrete mixer chassis, heavy-duty tractor units and special-purpose vehicles.

Ready-for-use specialists make the choice easier. The #arocs Loader is systematically configured for a low kerb weight and high payload as a two-axle tractor unit or as a concrete mixer chassis. The design factors concerned here include cab, chassis, engine variant and tyres. The #arocs Grounder is an extremely robust specialist for particularly tough applications. Characteristic features are a highly robust frame, multi-leaf parabolic springs with hard compliance characteristics, specially tuned shock absorbers, planetary hub reduction axles and particularly durable rims and tyres with high load-bearing capacity.

Arocs SLT and Actros SLT: dynamic heavy-duty tractor units

The #arocs range culminates in a spectacular heavy-duty tractor unit. A gross vehicle combination weight of up to 250 t, three, four and with a dock axle as many as five axles, two driven axles or all-wheel drive, an engine as strong as an ox with an output of up to 460 kW (625 hp) and 3000 Nm of torque, 16 finely graduated gears of the Mercedes PowerShift transmission – the Mercedes-Benz Actros SLT and Arocs SLT heavy-duty tractor units boast spectacular performance data.

The tailor-made concept for the SLT includes the turbo retarder clutch (TRC) combining hydraulic start-off clutch and retarder in a joint component. The TRC facilitates sensitive moving off and manoeuvring even at the lowest of speeds and as a primary retarder generates 350 kW (476 hp) of braking power. Together with the High Performance Engine Brake generating an output of up to 475 kW (646 hp), the TRC offers the ultimate in safety. The radiator, hydraulic system, the fuel tank with a capacity of 900 litres, the compressed-air chamber and further components are housed in the elegantly trimmed rear cooling tower.

The diverse SLT model variants break down into the two model series Arocs SLT and Actros SLT. The steel-sprung #arocs SLT based on the particularly robust #arocs Grounder is also available with the BigSpace cab as well as the StreamSpace cab measuring 2.3 m in width. The air-sprung Actros SLT is available with the spacious GigaSpace and BigSpace cabs measuring 2.5 m in width. As a high-tech heavy-duty tractor unit, the SLT is designed for a gross vehicle combination weight of up to 250 t. For the construction industry the focus is on it as a semi-heavy-duty tractor/trailer combination for transporting heavy construction machinery. In this case the additional radiator system and optionally also the TRC can be dispensed with. The permissible gross vehicle combination is up to 120 t, or up to a maximum of 155 t with certain restrictions.

More variants, more comfort and yet more safety: the #arocs 2017

The current model range shows how the Mercedes-Benz #arocs continually adapts to customers' needs and wishes. When the #arocs needs to be scaled down at construction sites and entrances, the ClassicSpace LowRoof in M and L variant with a width of 2300 mm is a contender, for example. It is 100 mm lower than the original variant. In combination with the OM 470 engine, 320 mm engine tunnel and ClassicSpace LowRoof, the roof height is even reduced by 280 mm.

The Home Line and Style Line design and equipment lines are now also available for the #arocs with 2.5 m wide cab. The SoloStar Concept with its spacious rest area for the StreamSpace and BigSpace cabs turns the #arocs into a tipper boasting added comfort.

The #arocs also offers new options in the area of the suspension and powertrain. The electrically supported Servotwin steering is now also available for the four-axle #arocs 8x4 and for other wheelbases, for example. The engageable hydraulic starting-off aid HAD (Hydraulic Auxiliary Drive) can additionally be used on semitrailer tractor variants with 3300 mm wheelbase for transporting hazardous goods. New options for the #arocs with HAD are the 320 mm engine tunnel for L cabs and a cover to provide protection from bulk goods in conjunction with the M cab.

Drivers needing to move off very carefully or who manoeuvre at low speeds should choose the turbo retarder clutch (TRC). This can be combined with Proximity Control Assist and Active Brake Assist on all #arocs 6x4 chassis with air suspension and front underride protection. Together with the OM 471 engine an additional power take-off rated at up 80 kW and 350 Nm can be realised in combination with the TRC.

From April 2018, a new tilting hydraulics package will be available ex factory for the two-axle #arocs 4x2 and #arocs 4x4 semitrailer tractors. The hydraulic system is configured as a single or dual-circuit system depending on intended use.

The #arocs also leads the way in terms of safety. Mercedes-Benz is now offering it with the option of a tyre pressure monitoring system featuring a new display concept, for example, that displays the precise pressure required, depending on the outside temperature. Above all, the two- and three-axle #arocs approved for road use (N3) is optionally available with new Active Brake Assist 4, the only emergency braking assistant with pedestrian detection.

For construction vehicles with a focus on road transport, Mercedes-Benz has developed an Actros as a 4x2 LS semitrailer tractor to complement the #arocs. The key deployment area for the tipper body is transporting bulk goods with a total weight of up to 44 t. The semitrailer tractor features six centimetres more ground clearance and is available with an optional pivoting step. It weighs up to 150 kg less than an equivalent #arocs 4x2. The semitrailer tractor is available with 320 mm and 170 mm engine tunnels and the OM 470 and OM 471 engines in all output ratings. A further advantage of the road-oriented Actros in construction transport is that it is optionally available with the entire broad range of safety assistance systems that feature on board the road vehicles, including revolutionary Sideguard Assist to protect pedestrians and cyclists. With this equipment on board, the Actros is predestined for construction sites in urban settings, for example.

Networked services: the diverse range of solutions from Fleetboard

Construction transport is not all excavation, robustness, maximum traction and rubber boots - construction transport also entails fine-tuned logistics, frequently in extreme conditions. It is generally far more complex than road transport, as various partners require to be coordinated on site and dozens of vehicles may need to be deployed together for a single task. The solution for this mammoth task goes by the name of networking. Just the job for Fleetboard and its diverse scope of functions, which go well beyond the bounds of a telematics system. Fleetboard is able to draw on almost two decades of experience with networked services and the effective use of acquired data.

The #truck Data Center is the optional connectivity module which forms the core of the networked #arocs. This is where all real-time data are received and transmitted. The hardware receives data from all the sensors, cameras, etc. on board the #truck and analyses this information for the most diverse applications. The vehicle computer also serves as the interface for all networked services and is responsible for the truck's external communications.

This results in a wealth of useful services, software applications and apps within the Logistics Management, Vehicle Management and Time Management segments, spanning scheduling, performance analysis, time recording and mass storage memory download - so that all relevant driver and #truck data can be read remotely, relaxed and archived in compliance with the law.

The option of recording the type of operation and displaying the time spent stationary with the engine running is particularly interesting for application in construction transport, as a means of determining the exact fuel consumption while stationary and on the move. Positions and the courses of trips are recorded continuously, noting the times when PTOs are activated and when the engine or ignition is switched on or off. Geofencing provides information on the vehicle's position and status, with automatic notifications when the vehicle leaves or enters production plants or construction sites. As construction sites and unloading points do not generally have conventional postal addresses, the route guidance system is also able to operate solely on the basis of geo-coordinates.

Fleetboard Store for apps: open platform boosts efficiency

The new Fleetboard Store for apps is the marketplace for truck-related apps. Customers, industry partners such as bodybuilders, and app developers can use the open platform to make apps available for all parties involved in the transport process. The operator selects apps in the Fleetboard Store and sends them to the driver tablets DispoPilot.guide in individual trucks, several trucks or all the trucks in a fleet.

Mercedes-Benz Uptime: avoid breakdowns, increase availability

The ideal #truck runs without any breakdowns. With Mercedes-Benz Uptime the #arocs applies intelligent networking in pursuit of this ideal – even in the toughest conditions encountered in construction transport. Uptime continuously checks the vehicle systems which are equipped with sensors. This also includes the status of wear parts and operating fluids such as AdBlue. When an impending need for repair or maintenance work emerges, the #truck relays this information automatically via Fleetboard to Mercedes-Benz Service. The data are analysed in real time and forwarded to the service organisation with specific recommended courses of action. If there is an acute risk of a #truck breaking down, the service organisation will contact the customer and organise a stop at a workshop along the planned route. In addition, repair and maintenance requirements which are identified in good time are relayed automatically to the Mercedes-Benz service partner selected by the customer. The service partner bundles pending items of work and arranges an appropriate appointment with the customer in accordance with the trip planning and the required maintenance. Information and specific recommended courses of action for upcoming repairs that can easily be carried out in-house are made available to the customer in a timely manner via the Mercedes-Benz Uptime portal and by e-mail. This boosts availability substantially. Uptime is now available in 18 European markets and also Turkey.

The diversity and individuality of the #arocs – as exemplified by the cabs

Radiator grille with striking bucket-tooth look, rippled outside mirror housing, pivoting step, three-part bumpers with steel corners – the #arocs is instantly recognisable as a robust #truck for heavy-duty construction transport. Two cab widths, three lengths, two engine tunnel heights and a level floor add up to nine different basic cabs.

From the compact ClassicSpace S cab to the spacious BigSpace L cab, the #arocs covers every requirement, including special features such as cabs with a lowered roof. All the available options together result in around two dozen different variants. Anyone wishing to refine their #arocs can choose between the two optional design and equipment lines Home Line and Style Line for the 2.5 m wide cab, or even indulge in the SoloStar Concept with its spacious rest area on the co-driver's side.

Engines: choice of four engines in 18 power ratings

There is a huge range of engines to match. State-of-the-art six-cylinder engines with 7.7 litres, 10.7 litres, 12.8 litres and 15.6 litres displacement cover all requirements. In all there are 18 output ratings to choose from, spanning the range in small steps from 175 kW (238 hp) to 460 kW (625 hp) and from 1000 Nm to 3000 Nm.

Powerful and efficient: the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz OM 470

The spotlight is currently on the latest generation of the OM 470 in-line six-cylinder engine, which combines maximum efficiency with minimal emissions and outstanding performance. Its new features at a glance: increased maximum rail pressure and maximum injection pressure of 2700 bar, new seven-hole injection nozzle with higher flow rate, asymmetric injection between cylinders one to three and four to six, new combustion chamber geometry with an omega-shaped recess in the piston, increased compression, patented infinitely variable exhaust gas recirculation with reduced rate. The new turbocharger is produced in-house. The engine is operated exclusively in pre-controlled mode. There is no wastegate valve, boost pressure control, EGR sensor or EGR control system.

The top model of the Mercedes-Benz OM 470 engine range is a variant generating an output of 335 kW (456 hp) and a powerful 2200 Nm of peak torque. These figures highlight the outstanding performance of the OM 470. With a specific output of 31.4 kW per litre of displacement (42.7 hp/l) and specific torque of 206 Nm/l, the OM 470 is one of the most powerful engines in its size category.

This provides customers with a choice of two different characters of engine with the same rating: the OM 471 with its emphatically brawny performance in the lowest rev range, and the compact OM 470 offering slightly more power in the middle and higher rev ranges and weight savings of some 150 kg in comparison to the engine with the larger swept volume.

All heavy-duty drive systems: engine oils, transmissions and PPC optimised

The 10.7 litre Mercedes-Benz OM 470 as well as the larger six-cylinder in-line OM 471 with a displacement of 12.8 litres and the 15.6 litre OM 473 benefit from additional efficiency measures. These comprise new low-friction engine oils, a more advanced transmission and axles and a further refined driving strategy for the anticipatory cruise control system Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC).

The OM 473 additionally highlights the enhanced X-Pulse injection system. Here too, the maximum rail pressure has been raised from 900 to 1160 bar. At the same time, the maximum injection pressure has increased to 2700 bar. The output and torque variants of the OM 473 have remained unchanged, as have its charging and exhaust gas recirculation technology.

The 18 engine variants for the Arocs

The fourth engine remains the compact and lightweight Mercedes-Benz OM 936 six-cylinder in-line unit with a displacement of 7.7 litres. This engine is recommended for solo operation and, depending on the output rating, for occasional towing use primarily on the road and without exploiting the permissible vehicle combination weights to the full.

The Mercedes-Benz OM 936 with a displacement of 7.7 litres is available in five variants for the #arocs:

The Mercedes-Benz OM 470 also comes in five ratings, including the new top-of-the-range variant:

The OM 471 range also spans five variants:

The top-of-the-range engine is the Mercedes-Benz OM 473 in three output ratings:

Transmission with 8, 12 and 16 gears

The engine, transmission and axle of the #arocs all bear the Mercedes star and are perfectly matched. As standard, fully automated Mercedes PowerShift 3 model series transmissions take care of power transmission with 8, 12 or on request 16 gears. A direct shift mechanism from first to reverse gear facilitates rapid manoeuvring. The "Offroad" or "Power" drive programs each have various drive modes and adapt to the given individual type of operation. Additional functions support the driver, for example the engageable rocking mode for traction problems in off-road terrain. Manual gearshifts are also available optionally. Anyone having to move off particularly sensitively and wear-free with high weights can choose the turbo-retarder clutch (TRC). This combines a hydraulic start-up clutch and retarder in a single component.

Three all-wheel drive systems for the most diverse operating conditions

For off-road use Mercedes-Benz offers different all-wheel drive variants. If the payload and fuel consumption are to the fore, the engageable all-wheel drive is the right choice. If maximum traction is called for, the solution is permanent all-wheel drive plus a low-range ratio.

The third variant, the "Hydraulic Auxiliary Drive" (HAD), has caused a sensation in the sector. With engageable wheel hub motors at the front axle HAD covers road-oriented use with occasionally increased traction requirements. With HAD the #arocs reveals itself to be a true all-rounder. The driver engages HAD by pressing a button. The necessary slip-sensitive power transmission is then efficiently and steplessly controlled.

The advantages of the hydraulic drive are the comparatively low added weight, benefits in terms of fuel consumption and emissions, and great versatility in configuring the vehicle. In the case of Mercedes-Benz, these qualities are complemented by maintenance-free design, low fuel consumption with activated hydrostatic drive and, above all, the combination with the Mercedes PowerShift transmission. The #arocs HAD sets benchmarks in its segment: it is powerful, lighter than an all-wheel-drive model, easy to operate, maintenance-free and has a long service life. It lowers fuel consumption and consequently protects the environment as the result of low emissions.

In the construction sector, too: cutting costs and fuel consumption with PPC

Construction transport is about maximising traction - and minimising costs. For road-oriented based vehicles in particular, every litre of fuel saved means more cash in the company coffers. With this in mind, construction vehicles with Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC) are the right choice for maximum efficiency. PPC adapts gear selection and speed fully automatically to the individual course of the route concerned. The current PPC generation boasts a further refined shift strategy. Shift points have been optimised, and on downhill stretches a hysteresis range adjustable down to 10 km/h saves even more fuel.

The effect of PPC is quickly calculable by reference to a typical rigid #truck such as the #arocs 8x4/4. In road use, PPC cuts fuel consumption by up to five percent. Assuming an annual mileage of 60 000 km with 35 to 40 percent motorway and A-road driving, PPC can reduce costs by around 400 to 500 Euro per year, depending on the fuel price. This means that the additional investment can pay for itself within around two years.

Special-purpose vehicles ex factory: Mercedes-Benz Custom Tailored Trucks (CTT)

Sometimes, extreme operations in the field of construction transport call for exceptional vehicles. This is where the experts at Mercedes-Benz Custom Tailored Trucks (CTT) in Molsheim, Alsace, come into play. CTT is the producer of highly specialised vehicles within the Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks unit. CTT manufactures the SLT heavy-haulage vehicle and also produces customised vehicles as one-off items or special series. A major advantage is that CTT operates as a one-stop supplier of customised #mercedesbenztrucks that come with a single invoice. Duly tested and approved and benefiting from the full scope of warranty coverage and the globe-spanning service offered by the Mercedes-Benz brand. Whatever it takes: from wheelbase modifications to the #arocs as a five-axle #truck in 10x4 configuration, CTT produces exceptional #truck variants for customers all over the world.