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First sight of Merc's flagship in waiti
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Dur exclusive photos show off the next-generation Mercedes tractor Nhich is scheduled for release in 2010, Andy Salter reports.
ASDUR EXCLUSIVE pictures revieal, Mercedes-Benz is well advanced in the development of the heavy truck range it is expected to launch in 2010, well ahead of the Euro-6 engine emissions deadline.
The redesigned cabs clearly show Mercedes is re-aligning its Axor/Actros range into a single family of narrow-cabbed and full-width products using similar styling. The square, boxy shape of the current generation is replaced by a much smoother, more aerodynamic design, giving the truck a look more akin to the Volvo FH series.
The narrow-cabbed version, seen here in white with black 'disguise panels'. is set to replace the Axor and is sure to address many of the criticisms aimed at the current range. For instance,the cab dimension appears longer, offering the prospect of improved bunk and living space for the driver. while the mirror arrangement also looks likes a big improvement.
The full-width cab has a new roof line and despite its disguise, our close-up picture indicates a completely new door panel has been designed for the range. A high-roof cab and promised nearflat floor should ensure superb incab living. Close inspection of the photos indicates a flat dash layout, with a slight curve to the instrument panel: the array of vents across the front of the dash indicates that demisting will not he a problem.
On the technical front the new truck family will be powered by the Daimler heavy-duty engine platform (HDEP), launched last month for US applications and available in Europe in 10.6, 12.8 and 14.8-litre versions. The smallest option is likely to prove the most popular motor for the fleet-spec narrow-cabbed versions, with the 12.8 and 14.8-litre engines best suited to the full-width cab.
Many observers expect Mercedes to trump MAN in the horsepower stakes with a 700hp offering from a top-of-the-range l 5.6-litre straight-six.