Mercedes-Benz has presented an advanced new truck with no mirrors at a special customer and media event at the Hampton Downs racetrack. 

The new generation Mercedes-Benz Actros features a range of driver-focused improvements including MirrorCam, a system that uses aerodynamic cameras connected to two large screens in the cabin that dramatically boost driver vision.

Mercedes-Benz also confirmed it will soon begin a comprehensive New Zealand validation programme for the truck with a select group of customers, each evaluating the smart new models on local roads in both the North and South Islands.

The new Actros is expected to go on sale in New Zealand in the second quarter of 2020.

While the innovative MirrorCam is the headline act, the new Actros also features a new multimedia interface system with two high-resolution tablet-style screens that can be customised for driver preference, much like displays in prestige Mercedes-Benz cars. 

The new generation truck also features GPS-assisted Predictive Powertrain Control for increased fuel efficiency, enhanced connectivity, and the latest generation of advanced safety technology that delivers further improvements.

Mercedes-Benz Truck and Bus Australia Pacific director Michael May says Mercedes-Benz is determined to continue its momentum in the New Zealand truck market. 

 “Many New Zealand customers have embraced the current generation Actros thanks to its remarkable efficiency, reliability and comfort, which has been fantastic for us,” he says.

“But Mercedes-Benz will always look for new ways to improve the experience of our partners.”

May says the new Actros brings a range of improvements. 

“The new truck has a range of features that make life easier for drivers and continue to push down the cost of operating a transport business,” he says.

Mercedes-Benz is also committed to making sure the New Zealand Actros range is right for local customers by working with customers to determine the ideal model specification for the unique conditions of New Zealand.

MirrorCam can help deliver a fuel efficiency saving, thanks to the reduced drag of the small camera pods that replace the regular mirrors. The increased range of vision that can be displayed on the two screens in the cabin, and the lack of a physical mirror blocking some of the view is also set to deliver a big improvement for drivers and deliver greater safety. 

The reduced size of the camera wing compared with a wing mirror is also likely to reduce the chance of damage. However, in the event it is damaged, Mercedes-Benz expects the cost of replacing the camera assembly will be in line with, or less than, replacing a traditional mirror assembly.

Mercedes-Benz has further improved driver operation of a range of systems with new touch control buttons added to the steering wheel, which allow drivers to change what information is displayed on the two large screens.