Mercedes-Benz Trucks tests MCS charging on eActros 600

Mercedes-Benz Trucks is conducting a 2,400 km test of megawatt charging system (MCS) technology with two eActros 600 battery electric trucks, running from Germany through the Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark to Sweden. The truckmaker said the test, which starts at its Wörth am Rhein plant and ends in Linköping, will evaluate vehicle compatibility with MCS charging stations from various manufacturers, as well as real-world usability under winter conditions.

The trucks will be charged at both public and private MCS locations designed for heavy-duty vehicles. MCS charging can deliver up to 1,000 kW, allowing the eActros 600 to charge from 20% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes, compared to longer charging times with current combined charging system (CCS) technology.

In a statement, Peter Ziegler, Head of E-Charging Components at Mercedes-Benz Trucks, said: “The key challenges in megawatt charging lie in harmonizing the vehicle with various charging systems. At the same time, the extreme charging currents in MCS charging place high demands on thermal management. The current test run provides an important opportunity to evaluate these aspects under real-world operating conditions.”

Mercedes-Benz Trucks noted that only a limited number of public MCS locations are currently available in Europe. The MCS standard is being developed by the CharIN organisation and standardised internationally in collaboration with truck manufacturers.

Source: Daimler Truck