Despite Malaysia’s current mandate of Euro 4 emissions standards for new vehicles, Hap Seng Trucks Distribution (HSTD) is proceeding with the launch of the updated Mercedes-Benz Actros, now featuring Euro 5 engines. This event also marks the introduction of the Arocs, designed for off-road use, into the Malaysian market, which is equipped with the same cleaner engine technology.
There are three variants of the Actros and two variants of the Arocs available. The Actros 2033 4×2 base model boasts a 10.7-liter OM470 straight-six turbodiesel engine that generates 326 PS at 1,600 rpm and 1,700 Nm of torque at 1,100 rpm. The 2640 6×2 variant offers increased power, reaching up to 394 PS and 1,900 Nm. For those requiring even greater power, the 2645 6×2 model is equipped with a larger 12.8-liter OM471 engine, yielding 449 PS and 2,200 Nm of torque, maintaining the same rpm as the other options.
Mercedes-Benz claims these new engines offer a seven percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to their Euro 3 counterparts. The Actros is available with both the ClassicSpace L-cab and the taller StreamSpace variant, the latter being optional for the 2640 model and standard for the 2645. The gross combination weight (GCW) ratings are 44 tonnes for the 2033 and 68 tonnes for the other models.
Designed for rugged construction environments, the Arocs is available solely in a 6×4 configuration with the ClassicSpace cab. The 3340 variant continues with the 394 PS OM470 engine, rated for a GCW of 80 tonnes, while the 3348 variant features an upgraded OM471 engine producing 476 PS and 2,300 Nm of torque, raising the GCW rating to 120 tonnes. All engines are paired with a PowerShift 3 automated manual transmission, which offers 12 speeds for the Actros and 16 speeds for the Arocs.
The Actros and Arocs achieve their Euro 5 certification by utilizing AdBlue selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, which injects aqueous urea into the exhaust system to minimize nitrous oxide emissions. Additionally, all engines are compatible with B30 biodiesel, which the Malaysian government plans to implement by 2030. The service intervals remain consistent, extending to 55,000 km.
Aside from the new engines, the Actros remains largely unchanged from its predecessor, with the addition of standard eyebrow-style LED daytime running lights. An optional illuminated Three-Pointed Star logo and a redesigned three-piece front bumper, featuring steel corners, have been introduced to reduce damage and repair costs compared to plastic components.
Reflecting its more robust design, the Arocs includes standard headlight guards and sturdier rubber-mounted side steps. It is also equipped with a high-performance engine braking system offering an additional 130 kW (176 PS) in deceleration beyond the standard setup.
Other enhancements include a stronger parabolic rear spring suspension (instead of the air suspension found in the Actros), along with recalibrated dampers and anti-roll bars for improved durability and stable handling with uneven loads. Furthermore, the Arocs features a planetary rear axle, allowing for a higher GCW than the Actros, which uses a hypoid axle.
Accessing the new Actros with the 10.7-liter engine has been made easier thanks to a lower floor design that is 279 mm lower. Inside, drivers will find a familiar dashboard featuring the “rifled” engine start button from previous Mercedes passenger vehicles, alongside a large electronic parking brake lever. From a safety perspective, both models can be equipped with autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a driver attention monitoring system.
Both the Actros and Arocs are equipped with Trac360 telematics as a standard feature, which HSTD asserts will enhance the utilization of these prime movers for users and businesses. This system monitors the truck’s location and past routes, providing insights into driver behavior and aiding in recovery efforts if the vehicle is stolen.
Hap Seng Trucks emphasizes that the reduced carbon emissions resulting from the Euro 5 engines in the Actros and Arocs are vital for their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives, contributing to a more sustainable future by mitigating pollution from freight transportation.
GALLERY: Mercedes-Benz Actros 2033 4×2 ClassicSpace
GALLERY: Mercedes-Benz Actros 2640 6×2 ClassicSpace
GALLERY: Mercedes-Benz Actros 2645 6×2 StreamSpace
GALLERY: Mercedes-Benz Arocs 3348 6×4 ClassicSpace
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