Mercedes-Benz is moving its electric truck strategy deeper into heavy-duty construction. After first previewing the model at last year’s Bauma expo, the company has now opened orders for the new Mercedes-Benz eArocs 400, a battery-electric truck designed for demanding vocational use.
The launch marks a step beyond highway-focused electric semis, targeting applications like construction, recovery, and heavy hauling—areas where electrification has been slower to take hold.
Built for Heavy-Duty Work
The eArocs 400 is offered in 37- and 44-ton configurations, with an 8×4 axle setup and multiple wheelbase options. This setup is designed to support a range of use cases, including dump trucks, concrete mixers, and other specialized equipment.
In practical terms, that means the truck is built not just for paved roads, but also for job sites where traction, stability, and durability are critical.
That’s still relatively uncommon in the electric truck segment.
Power and Battery Setup
The truck is powered by a 450 kW (around 600 hp) electric motor, supported by two battery packs with a combined capacity of 414 kWh. The batteries are mounted behind the cab, positioned to maintain weight distribution over the front axles.
For drivers and operators, this helps improve control in uneven terrain such as mud, gravel, or construction sites.
Mercedes says the setup enables “full-day operation,” though exact range figures depend heavily on use case and load.
Charging and Operational Efficiency
The eArocs 400 uses an 800V electrical architecture, allowing charging speeds of up to 400 kW. Under optimal conditions, the battery can recharge from 10% to 80% in under 45 minutes.
For fleet operators, this aligns with scheduled breaks or shift changes, helping minimize downtime.
Compared to diesel refueling, charging still takes longer, but the gap is narrowing as higher-power systems become more common.
Technology and Safety Features
Inside, the truck features Mercedes’ Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2, which integrates digital controls and voice commands to simplify operation.
It also includes a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, such as Active Brake Assist 6, Active Sideguard Assist, and Front Guard Assist—features designed to improve safety in complex environments like construction sites and urban delivery zones.
Telematics systems provide fleet monitoring and operational data, supporting more efficient vehicle management.
Limited Production Rollout
Orders are now open in 13 European countries, with production set to begin in the third quarter at Mercedes’ Wörth plant. Initial output will be limited to around 150 units.
This controlled rollout reflects the early-stage nature of electric heavy-duty trucks, particularly in specialized segments like construction.
How It Compares
Competition in this category remains limited. Models like the Kenworth T880E offer similar capabilities, but availability varies by region.
Most electric trucks today are still focused on urban logistics or highway freight, making the eArocs 400 part of a smaller group targeting off-road and vocational use.
Bottom Line
The eArocs 400 expands Mercedes-Benz’s electric truck lineup into more demanding applications, where durability and flexibility are essential. While production volumes remain limited, the model highlights ongoing progress in electrifying segments that have traditionally been difficult to transition away from diesel.
