2021 Mercedes Arocs 8x8 Offroad test drive

Superb savings: advanced Predictive Powertrain Control optimises fuel consumption, particularly on interurban routes
Safe like no other: only the latest generations of assistance systems in the Arocs
User-friendly: groundbreaking operability of the Multimedia Cockpit
Always on: networking provides for maximum availability
Extensive range: configurations to suit every application
Construction calls for a hands-on approach. It's a tough job that requires hardy workers. The new
Mercedes-Benz Arocs has all the qualities required to be the perfect partner for construction-related transport: powerful engines, varied drive configurations and a robust chassis for the sustainable development of industry-appropriate vehicle bodies. The Arocs has an extensive programme allowing customers to design their own transport solutions that cater to individual requirements. Construction haulage today, however, requires more than that. Operations represent logistical masterpieces, often completed under extreme conditions and which call for state-of-the-art-technology. Exactly the type of innovation brought to the construction site by the new Arocs. Boasting the latest generation of technological developments such as Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC), Sideguard Assist, Active Brake Assist and market ‘firsts’ such as MirrorCam and the Multimedia Cockpit, not to mention the Truck Data Center (TDC) connectivity platform, the Arocs is setting the standard for efficiency, digitalisation, safety and connectivity.

Innovative and efficient thanks to the advanced Predictive Powertrain Control

The Mercedes-Benz Arocs now also benefits from the advanced cruise and transmission control Predictive Powertrain Control. PPC has thus also found its purpose in inter-urban traffic and the Arocs, which frequently navigates rural roads, is now set to see major progress in the reduction of fuel consumption. In addition to a GPS-based positioning system, the new generation of PPC uses digital road maps that contain data on topography, road bends, the geometry of intersections and roundabouts, as well as traffic signs. Not only is the Arocs always able to find the right gear and appropriate speed for consumption when travelling up- and downhill, but also when navigating the winding roads between cities and towns. This is what makes it so fuel-efficient and as comfortable as possible out on the road.

Even seasoned professionals have confirmed this is the case. Such as Meichle + Mohr driver, Felix Amann. He's already had a chance to sound out the new Arocs on the rural roads around Lake Constance and is pleased about the support of the new system. "Thanks to the new Predictive Powertrain Control, I can now also drive more comfortable overland using cruise control." Roland Maier, Fleet Manager at Meichle + Mohr, adds: "Even a highly skilled driver with excellent knowledge of the route doesn't achieve fuel consumption rates in interurban traffic like those of the new Arocs with improved Predictive Powertrain Control." Out on the road, the Arocs is up to five percent more fuel-efficient when compared to models without the intelligent cruise and transmission control. PPC is now also available for heavy duty trucks up to 120 tonnes, all-wheel drive vehicles and vehicles with Hydraulic Auxiliary Drive (HAD) or fluid coupling - with the exception of the cement mixer. In combination with MirrorCam, fuel savings are even better thanks to the optimised aerodynamics of the streamlined camera housing mounted on the side of the cab roof frame. This replaces the conventional main and wide-angle mirrors in the new Arocs. The optional system comprises two cameras aimed at the rear whose images appear on two large 15-inch displays on the A-pillar in the cab. The Arocs is the first construction truck to include this system.

Maximum safety thanks to MirrorCam and innovative assistance systems



From June 2021, there will be another safety assistance system available for the numerous Arocs model variants: Active Sideguard Assist. The new system no longer just warns the driver about moving cyclists or pedestrians on the co-driver's side, as is the case with Sideguard Assist, but can also initiate automatic braking at a turning speed of 20 km/h until the vehicle comes to a standstill, should the driver fail to react to the audible warnings. Active Sideguard Assist recognises the need for this intervention from the angle of the steering wheel and, ideally, prevents any collision. Mercedes-Benz Trucks is the first truck manufacturer in the world to introduce such a system with active braking function, thus making its contribution toward further reducing the number of serious injuries or even deaths caused by accidents when vehicles are turning.