Amazon orders 200+ electric trucks from Mercedes-Benz
January 21, 2025
Logistics Sustainability

Amazon orders 200+ electric trucks from Mercedes-Benz

For high-mileage middle-mile network

In a major milestone for sustainable logistics, Amazon has placed its largest-ever order for over 200 electric heavy goods trucks, selecting the flagship Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 from Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

The order marks the largest purchase of an electric truck by the German truck manufacturer in its history. It represents a significant step towards Amazon’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

The order will see the deployment of the eActros 600 across Amazon’s high-mileage middle-mile network, which includes transporting cargo containers between its fulfilment centres, sort centres, and delivery stations.

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Amazon has made its biggest electric heavy truck order anywhere in the world. Credit: Mercedes-Benz

The fleet will consist of over 140 trucks in the UK and more than 50 in Germany, collectively expected to transport more than 350 million packages annually with zero exhaust emissions. This move underscores Amazon’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and accelerating its European electric transportation transition.

After extensive trials with a near-production prototype of the eActros 600, Amazon placed the order at one of its logistics centres in Germany. This testing phase provided valuable insights, ensuring the vehicle’s suitability for Amazon’s logistics operations.

Pioneering step

Karin Rådström, Chairwoman of Daimler Truck AG, expressed her enthusiasm about the order. She noted that Amazon has long pioneered the transformation of the transport industry with alternative drive solutions. She commented, “We are very pleased that Amazon, a pioneer in the transformation towards alternative drives, has chosen the eActros 600, a game-changer for sustainable transportation.”

Echoing this sentiment, Stina Fagerman, Head of Marketing, Sales and Services at Mercedes-Benz Trucks, highlighted Amazon’s role as an essential partner in the journey towards CO2-neutral transport. “A near-series prototype of the eActros 600 has already been trialled by Amazon, providing valuable insights before the start of series production,” said Fagerman. “We are therefore very pleased about this major order for the eActros 600.”

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The eActros 600 offers a range of up to 500km on a single charge. Credit: Mercedes-Benz

For Amazon, the purchase is a key step in its commitment to electrify its European transportation network, according to Andreas Marschner, Vice President of Worldwide Operations Sustainability. “This is the biggest electric heavy truck order by Amazon to date anywhere in the world,” he stated. “It is an important step as we work to achieve our Climate Pledge commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions across our operations by 2040.”

Cutting-edge electric technology

At the heart of this transformative move is the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600, an electric heavy goods vehicle designed for long-haul transportation. Equipped with a high-capacity 600-kilowatt-hour battery, the eActros 600 offers an impressive range of up to 500km on a single charge, even when carrying 40 tons. This performance makes it ideal for the long-distance journeys required in Amazon’s operations.

One of the eActros 600’s most innovative features is its electric drive axle, which Mercedes-Benz developed in-house. This axle ensures energy efficiency and reliable performance. While its range of 500 kilometres is achievable under typical operating conditions, the truck can travel further depending on driving style and route conditions. With intermediate charging during driver breaks, the eActros 600 can cover more than 1,000km daily, even without the latest megawatt infrastructure.

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The eActros 600 supports CCS charging up to 400kW. Credit: Mercedes-Benz

In addition to its impressive range, the eActros 600 supports CCS (combined charging system) charging up to 400kW. Future vehicle versions will also support megawatt charging, significantly reducing charging times and enhancing operational efficiency.

Visually, the eActros 600 showcases a modern, aerodynamic design with clear, minimalist lines that optimise energy efficiency. It is expected to set new profitability standards for fleet operators, mainly as it replaces diesel trucks in the long-distance transport segment. Mercedes-Benz also offers a comprehensive solution for fleet operators through its new TruckCharge brand, which includes vehicle technology, consultation services, charging infrastructure, and after-sales support.

Industry recognition

The eActros 600 has proven its capabilities in real-world conditions, completing a 15,000km all-electric development tour across 22 European countries. In recognition of its innovative design and performance, it was recently awarded the ‘International Truck of the Year 2025’ title, the most coveted prize in the commercial vehicle industry.

Series production of the eActros 600 began in late 2024 at Mercedes-Benz’s plant in Wörth am Rhein, Germany. The truck is now ready to be deployed across Europe, marking a significant milestone in transitioning to electric-powered long-distance transport.

Hero image: The Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 electric heavy goods vehicle is designed for long-haul transportation. Credit: Mercedes-Benz

Arnold Pinto

Arnold Pinto

Arnold Pinto is an award-winning journalist with wide-ranging Middle East and Asia experience in the tech, aerospace, defence, luxury watchmaking, business, automotive, and fashion verticals. He is passionate about conserving endangered native wildlife globally. Arnold enjoys 4x4 off-roading, camping and exploring global destinations off the beaten track. Write to: arnold@menews247.com
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