Mercedes-Benz Trucks has set a new Guinness World Record with its eActros 600 electric truck, completing an impressive 124.7 kilometers (about 75 miles) in reverse while towing a semitrailer. The achievement took place at the Motorsport Arena Oschersleben in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, surpassing the previous diesel truck record of 89 kilometers (around 55 miles) set in the U.S. in 2020.
During the 6-hour, 22-minute drive, the eActros 600 maintained an average speed of 20 km/h (about 12 MPH) while navigating 14 tight bends on the racetrack. The controlled environment of the track minimized external risks, ensuring the truck could complete the continuous reverse drive safely.
Mercedes-Benz Trucks and driver Marco Hellgrewe plan to extend the journey by another 30 kilometers (about 20 miles) to the Daimler Truck Global Parts Center in Halberstadt. This route, escorted by police, aims to demonstrate the practical capabilities of the eActros 600.
Hellgrewe, who drove the eActros 600 throughout the record attempt, has a history of reverse-driving records. In 2008, he set a personal record by driving 64 kilometers (about 40 miles) in reverse. This latest record with the electric truck marks a milestone for alternative drive technologies.
“I’m incredibly proud to have brought the record back to Germany with Mercedes-Benz Trucks, especially as this is a world first for an all-electric truck,” said Hellgrewe. “This record sends a powerful message about the future of electric drives and highlights important issues like road safety and the image of truck drivers. As an examiner of truck driver trainees, I see the impact this can have on young drivers.”
The eActros 600 used in the record attempt was equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s latest assistance systems, including the MirrorCam camera system. This technology helped Hellgrewe safely navigate the track’s 476 bends. The truck’s advanced drivetrain and systems ensured steady performance under challenging conditions.
The record attempt was supported by partners PROFI – Pro Fahrer-Image e.V. and Blicki e.V., both of which focus on promoting road safety and raising awareness about the vital roles truck drivers play.
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