Mercedes-Benz » Actros MP2
The world premiere of the second generation Actros was in 2002 at the motor show in Hanover. The new range includes model from Actros 1832 to Actros 4158 and replaces the first generation Actros which was presented in 1996. The first sells began in March 2003. In October at the RAI International Commercial Vehicle Show in Amsterdam, the truck received the award "Truck of the Year 2004". The new Actros MP2 is equipped with upgraded engines, new axles and suspensions, has an improved aerodynamics and new electronic systems. The cabin received a completely new interior and become more spacious inside. Exterior changes are not so radical. There is a new grille, head lights, side deflectors and a bumper. Fog lights are moved from the bottom of the bumper closer to the headlamps, where they are better protected from damage. Xenon headlights are available as an option. Such lights are more efficient and consume less energy: 35W instead of 70W halogen lamps. Besides, xenon lamps have almost an unlimited life, as they don't have spiral. Totally the Actros MP2 range includes more than 530 versions tractors, flatbed trucks and dump trucks, which could be equipped with 6 different cabins and 12 types of wheel bases. Compared with the first-generation, a nominal engine power of Actros MP2 increases about 5-20 kW (7-27 hp) and maximum torque about 8%, or 150 Nm. Due to the increasing of power, there are some changes in designation of modifications, except 1846 model. The trucks with a 12-liter V6 engine received the following codes (for example, for 18-ton version): 1832, 1836, 1841, 1844 and 1846. The models with a 16-liter V8 engine received the indices 1850, 1854 and 1858. The new Mercedes-Benz Actros MP2 is equipped with a 16-speed gearbox with straight main gear (G 211/G 231) or overdrive main gear (G 210/G 240/G 260). As the previous generation, these transmissions are controlled with the Telligent system. Engines are more powerful and fuel efficient versions of V-shaped 500 series engine. There are 5 versions of the engine OM 501 LA V6 with an output from 235 kW/320 hp to 335 kW/456 hp. The V8 engine could be offered in three versions with an output from 335 kW/503 hp tp 425 kW/578 hp. The new Actros MP2 has a number of different cabins: daycab, medium and long (these cabs can be made with a different height roof). In addition, the car hauler road train Mercedes-Benz Actros can be equipped with the 90 mm lower cabin. The new rear axle HL 6 with two air springs (so-called light-weight, double balloon "construction) offers improved load capacity of tractors with up to 335 kW (456 hp) engines.