Daimler has announced the world premiere of its new Mercedes-Benz Antos, a truck designed for heavy-duty short-radius distribution work. Having gross weight ratings of between 18 and 26 tonnes, the vehicle will make its public debut at the IAA Commercial Vehicles show in Hannover (Germany) in September.
Sharing styling cues with the new Actros, the 2.3 metre wide cab of the Antos is available in the ClassicSpace design in short (S) and medium (M) lengths. The medium-length variant is also available as the super-flat CompactSpace cab, for trucks with cooling units fitted to the body, for example. The cockpit provides the driver with ergonomically placed instruments and controls along with a multifunction steering wheel and multiple seat adjustment options.
Safety first
Standard safety kit includes electronically controlled (EBS) disc braking, acceleration skid control (ASR) and Stability Control Assist as well as third-generation Active Brake Assist.
In addition, Mercedes-Benz has put together an uncompromising safety package of optional assistance systems for the Antos including the new ABA 3 system which automatically initiates full brake application on detecting stationary obstacles ahead.
Clean running
In the engine department, the Antos is available with three in-line six cylinder engines with displacements of 7.7, 10.7 and 12.8 litres, all complying with Euro 6 emissions standards using EGR and SCR in addition to an oxidising catalytic converter and a particulate filter. Power outputs range from 175 kW (238 hp) through to 375 kW (510 hp). Consistent power transmission comes courtesy of two fully-automated versions of Mercedes’ PowerShift 3 transmission with either eight or 12 forward gears.
Maximum payload
The Antos comes in two application specific versions called Loader and Volumer.
The Loader is claimed to be the first prime mover suitable for 40-tonne combinations to tare below six tonnes. This has been achieved by using entrance supports made of aluminium, weight-optimised front windows and floor coverings, batteries with a reduced capacity, a combined tank for fuel and AdBlue and numerous other measures.
In addition to a wide range of cabs, Antos customers can also choose between different sized fuel tanks, depending on whether the priority is payload or range.