13 February 2014

Giant Actros shows its muscle

It's a big one and soon it could be seen on a roadway near you, writes Brian Byrne.

Pictured is the new Actros SLT, a unit that its makers, Mercedes-Benz, describe as 'the new power for heavy haulage'.

Operationally, the Actros SLT and its little brother, the Arocs SLT, can operate as a solo vehicle carrying up to 250 tonnes or as a train comprising up to three tractors with a total train weight of 750 tonnes - an application that could see it span a combined length of 50 to 100 metres.

Initially available in 6x4 and 8x4 formats (with wheelbase 3400/4000mm), all-wheel drive variants in 6x6, 8x6 and 8x8 configurations will follow with power outputs of up to 630hp available.

The air-spring SLT is offered with the spacious GigaSpace Cab while the Arocs comes with the BigSpace cab, both measuring some 2.5m in width.