2026 IAA Hanover Commercial Vehicle Show: Daimler Truck celebrates 130 years of the truck and drives the transport industry forward

　　Leinfelden-Echterdingen/Hanover--130 years after Gottlieb Daimler invented the truck, Daimler Truck presented innovations in key areas of the transport business at the 2026 IAA Transportation. With battery-electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, efficient diesel technology, safety assistance functions, digital solutions, services and automated driving, the company showed how it continues to drive the industry forward and provides comprehensive support in customers' daily operations.

　　Karin Rådström, CEO of Daimler Truck, said: "130 years ago, Gottlieb Daimler invented the truck. Since then, we have shaped the transport industry through innovation and an unwavering focus on customers. Our goal is to build the best truck and bus company. At IAA Transportation, we are showing how we translate this goal into action. We bring innovative products, technologies and services that help our customers succeed."。

　　Achim Puchert, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks, said: "Our customers face the simultaneous challenge of balancing profitability, safety and the transition to CO2-free transport. Our job is to provide them with the right solutions to achieve this. At IAA Transportation, we are showing how Mercedes-Benz Trucks turns this goal into reality, for example through our new-generation Powerliner powertrain, new safety assistance systems and the Mercedes-Benz eActros Lowliner for high-volume transport. Because innovation alone is not what matters most. What really matters are technologies and solutions that prove themselves in daily operations and deliver tangible value for our customers."。

　　Daimler Truck's progress in zero-emission trucks is particularly evident. Mercedes-Benz Trucks remains the clear market leader in Europe, with a market share of around 38% among local heavy- and medium-duty CO2-free trucks in the first half of 2026. The company's electric flagship, the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600, which in its most energy-efficient configuration has a range of up to 560 km (1) at a gross combination weight of 40 tonnes, has already covered more than 160 million kilometers for customers and has been in operation since its market launch at the end of 2024. Meanwhile, the hydrogen-powered GenH2 truck has completed almost 600,000 kilometers of customer trials.

　　Daimler Truck information: CO2-free transport is now viable in many long-haul applications. With the premiere of the new Mercedes-Benz eActros Lowliner at IAA Transportation, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is expanding its battery-electric portfolio, another important application for high-volume transport. At the same time, content creator and professional truck driver Tobias Wagner, known as "Elektrotrucker," is launching at IAA Transportation what may be the most ambitious real-world trial of an electric long-haul truck to date: he plans to drive an eActros 600 around 45,000 kilometers through around 30 countries.

　　Daimler Truck is also taking the next step toward series production of hydrogen-based transport. After extensive customer testing, the company is preparing to launch the NextGenH2 truck, which will make its public premiere at IAA Transportation. The first vehicles from this small series of 100 trucks are planned to enter customer operation by the end of this year. Customer interest is strong: despite still-limited refueling infrastructure, nearly half of the small series has already been allocated to customers. By the end of the decade, Daimler Truck will invest a three-digit million-euro amount in hydrogen-powered trucks.

　　At the same time, Daimler Truck is working with leading industrial and energy companies to advance the development of a robust and economically viable hydrogen ecosystem. The companies plan to announce more information on Tuesday, September 15, at IAA Transportation.

　　All these advances show that CO2-free road freight has become a technological reality. Battery-electric trucks can already be deployed reliably and economically in a growing number of customer applications. However, the expansion of Europe's charging infrastructure and insufficient energy supply—especially at competitive prices—still severely limit adoption at scale. As a result, customer demand has not developed at the speed required by current regulations. This is making the gap between ambitious policy goals and actual market conditions increasingly wide. In short: regulation and reality are out of sync.

　　The internal combustion engine therefore remains important for many customers. At IAA Transportation, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is presenting its new powertrain. The interaction between engine, transmission and axles improves efficiency, performance and operating costs.

　　In addition, the company is expanding its portfolio in the area of active safety with new assistance systems. Active Cross Traffic Assist and Active Side Guard Assist 3 support drivers in particularly critical traffic situations and set new standards for safety in heavy commercial vehicle transport.

　　In addition to new vehicles and safety technology, Daimler Truck is continuously driving the digitalization of trucks. With the new Fleetboard product world, My TruckPoint Store and expanded connectivity services, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is building an integrated digital ecosystem for transparent, predictable and efficient fleet operations.

　　Another focus of the digitalization strategy is the development of autonomous transport solutions with subsidiary Torc. The current focus is on long-haul transport in the United States, where automated driving has the potential to significantly increase productivity, safety and economics. The first driverless operations on public roads are planned for this year. After continued testing, commercial deployment is expected to begin as early as 2027, with expansion planned from 2028.

　　At IAA Transportation, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is presenting the "130 Years Truck Edition" to commemorate Gottlieb Daimler's invention of the first truck in 1896. This special edition is based on the ProCabin, is limited to 400 units and is the brand's first edition model offered with both diesel and battery-electric powertrains. Around 30 special equipment features, including historic design elements, a "historic sketch" paint finish and a premium interior, combine the brand's tradition with the requirements of long-haul transport.

　　Mercedes-Benz Trucks' presentation in Hall 19/20 is the central starting point for IAA Transportation's extensive experience program. Accompanied and customer test drives of selected Mercedes-Benz Trucks vehicles will start here. The test route passes through the exhibition grounds and partly on public roads, allowing visitors to experience the vehicles under real operating conditions.

　　Together with Milence, the joint venture of Daimler Truck, Volvo Group and TRATON GROUP, Daimler Truck is participating in the Megawatt Charging System (MCS) presented in Hall 14/15, a high-performance charging solution for electric trucks. The charging process is demonstrated live once a day at 10:00 a.m.

　　Another highlight is the Mercedes-Benz Trucks show held daily from Tuesday to Friday. In this dynamic vehicle demonstration, Mercedes-Benz Trucks experts present selected commercial vehicles in operation, from historic classics to the latest models with different drive technologies. The show combines fascinating insights into 130 years of commercial vehicle history with a look at the future of transport.

New addition to the electric truck portfolio: eActros Lowliner.

　　Mercedes-Benz Trucks is showing the new eActros Lowliner to a broad audience for the first time. The vehicle meets the growing demand for CO2-free transport solutions in the high-volume long-haul logistics segment. The new model will be available to order in the EU30 market and other international markets starting in the third quarter of 2026. Series production will begin at the Mercedes-Benz Wörth plant in the second quarter of 2027.

　　Achim Puchert: "With the eActros Lowliner, we are bringing the proven and powerful battery and drive technology of the eActros 600 into another important transport segment. The combination of the classic Lowliner vehicle concept with our battery-electric technology approach enables our customers to carry out high-volume transport tasks economically and locally CO2-free in the future. In doing so, we are continuously expanding our electric truck portfolio in line with customer requirements and further advancing the electrification of long-haul transport."。

　　The eActros Lowliner is a 4x2 tractor with a wheelbase of 4,000 mm and a cab width of 2.50 m. It offers fifth-wheel height and ground clearance comparable to those of a diesel truck. This allows large trailers to comply with the legally permitted overall vehicle height while offering a maximum interior height of up to three meters for volume-intensive transport. The low fifth-wheel height is achieved through optimized integration of the battery packs.

　　Technical highlights of the eActros Lowliner include the proven electric drive axle, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology and an 800-volt electrical architecture. Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2 and comprehensive safety assistance systems (2) complement these systems.

　　The eActros Lowliner can be equipped with two or three LFP battery packs, each with an installed capacity of 207 kWh (3). The eActros 600 Lowliner has a range of around 500 km (4) when fully loaded.

　　The eActros 400 Lowliner with two battery packs is lighter and therefore offers higher payload capacity than the eActros 600 Lowliner with three battery packs. Thanks to the reduced weight, maximum payload increases to around 24 tonnes, while the eActros 600 Lowliner has a maximum payload of around 21 tonnes.

　　Like all eActros variants, the eActros Lowliner can be charged at up to 400 kW via the standard CCS2 charging socket on the left side of the vehicle. With two battery packs, charging from 10% to 80% takes around 46 minutes (5); with three battery packs, charging takes around 70 minutes (5). In addition to CCS charging, the eActros Lowliner models with two and three battery packs will in future also support charging via the Megawatt Charging System (MCS). This feature will be introduced in the second half of 2027, with charging times of less than 30 minutes (6).

　　Like other vehicles in the eActros portfolio, the Lowliner uses the electric axle from the eActros 600, with two electric motors and a four-speed transmission. The motors deliver 400 kW of continuous output and 600 kW of peak output. Through predictive driving and recuperation, energy can be recovered and stored in the battery for later use.

　　The Lowliner also features Predictive Powertrain Control, a cruise control and transmission control system specifically optimized for the electric drivetrain. It automatically takes into account terrain, road layout and traffic signs to maximize efficiency.

　　The Lowliner's future ProCabin was developed specifically for efficient aerodynamics to reduce energy consumption.

"Around the world with 80 charges" using the eActros 600.

　　Professional truck driver and content creator Tobias Wagner will set off directly from IAA Transportation in his specially modified Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 to begin an extraordinary round-the-world adventure. With up to 80 charging stops, his goal is to become the first person to circumnavigate the world in an electric long-haul truck. The expedition is expected to cover around 45,000 kilometers across around 30 countries on five continents over about a year.

　　The journey will begin in Germany and take Wagner through Southeastern Europe, via the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia and Bulgaria, before reaching Turkey and Asia. From there, the plan is to continue via Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan to China. Wagner will then continue through Laos, Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia, with arrival in Singapore planned for the end of January. Before the expedition returns to Europe, further stages are planned in Australia, the United States, Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Argentina and Brazil. Along the way, Wagner will cross regions with highly developed charging infrastructure as well as regions where the conditions for purely electric road freight are not yet mature.

　　The central question of this expedition is how effectively battery-electric long-haul transport operates under real-world conditions. The journey aims to demonstrate the capabilities of modern electric trucks on long routes, gather practical experience in various operating environments and highlight where further progress is still needed in terms of infrastructure and regulatory conditions. The project is intended to provide new momentum for the transformation of road freight and the continued expansion of charging infrastructure.

　　Tobias Wagner will share his experiences with customers, drivers and the general public through regular updates from the road. The world tour is therefore intended not only to demonstrate the everyday practicality of battery-electric long-haul transport technology, but also to contribute to a broader discussion about the future of CO2-free road freight.

Customer operation of the eActros 600 in Europe exceeds 160 million kilometers.

　　With the purely electric eActros 600 long-haul truck, Mercedes-Benz Trucks has reached an important milestone: since the start of series production at the end of 2024, customer vehicles have covered more than 160 million CO2-free kilometers in Europe. The analysis is based on anonymized telematics data from the digital TruckLive service. The data shows that the eActros 600 is proving itself in real-world applications and that battery-electric long-haul transport is increasingly expanding into daily operations. Today, 50% of total daily mileage exceeds 400 kilometers, and around 20% exceeds 600 kilometers.

　　This clearly shows that customers are efficiently integrating the eActros 600 into existing logistics processes, and increasingly powerful business cases for electric long-haul transport are emerging. At the same time, the data provides valuable insights into typical operating situations, mileage patterns and charging behavior, enabling Mercedes-Benz Trucks to further align its products and digital services with customer needs.

TruckCharge: charging as an integrated end-to-end solution.

　　With TruckCharge, Daimler Truck continues to expand its electric vehicle offering and supports customers in building and operating charging infrastructure. The offering includes consulting, planning, hardware, operations and digital services, supporting the electrification of companies' fleets. Together with Mercedes-Benz Trucks' digital services, TruckCharge creates an integrated ecosystem connecting vehicles, charging infrastructure and fleet operations.

　　Through the TruckCharge network, Daimler Truck is also expanding access to charging infrastructure for electric trucks. This includes so-called semi-public charging stations operated by the company and made available to other users. In this way, the network helps to continuously increase the availability of charging stations for heavy road freight.

　　At the same time, Daimler Truck and its charging infrastructure joint venture Milence are driving the simplification of public charging: with seamless charging enabled by Autocharge, charging sessions and billing can in future be started automatically after a one-time setup process, without the driver needing a charging card or app. It is sufficient to connect the vehicle to the charging station; vehicle identification takes place automatically. Digital solutions such as Fleetboard Charge provide transparency on charging status, charging processes and vehicle readiness while supporting efficient charging management at depots and on the road.

NextGenH2 truck: the hydrogen highlight at IAA Transportation.

　　The Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 truck will be Daimler Truck's flagship hydrogen-powered vehicle at IAA Transportation in September. This fuel cell truck represents the next stage of development on the road to hydrogen-based long-haul transport and has been designed for future series production from the outset. The NextGenH2 truck continues to rely on liquid hydrogen and cellcentric's proven BZA150 fuel cell, which has already demonstrated its reliability and efficiency under real-world conditions in the first-generation vehicle. At the same time, the vehicle has been comprehensively technically updated with current production components already used in the battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600. These include the aerodynamically optimized ProCabin, the latest generation of the integrated electric axle, the modern Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2 based on the latest electrical/electronic architecture, and safety and assistance systems. The NextGenH2 truck uses liquid hydrogen and has a range of well over 1,000 kilometers on a single refueling, with short refueling times, making it ideal for heavy long-haul operations. Daimler Truck is also taking the next step toward series operation of hydrogen-based transport. After extensive customer testing, the company is preparing to launch the NextGenH2 truck, which will make its public premiere at IAA Transportation. A range of 000 kilometers on one refueling, short refueling times, suitable for heavy long-haul operations. Daimler Truck is also taking the next step toward series operation of hydrogen-based transport. After extensive customer testing, the company is preparing to launch the NextGenH2 truck, which will make its public premiere at IAA Transportation. A range of 000 kilometers on one refueling, short refueling times, suitable for heavy long-haul operations. Daimler Truck is also taking the next step toward series operation of hydrogen-based transport. After extensive customer testing, the company is preparing to launch the NextGenH2 truck, which will make its public premiere at IAA Transportation.

　　Starting at the end of 2026, Daimler Truck plans to deploy a small series of around 100 Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 trucks in real customer operations in Germany. The first customer is logistics service provider Dachser. Starting at the end of 2026, a liquid hydrogen fuel cell tractor will initially enter daily operation, followed by two identical vehicles by mid-2027. These fuel cell trucks will be located at Dachser's Karlsruhe logistics center and will be used primarily in long-haul transport operations, integrated into existing domestic and international logistics networks.

　　In addition to proven fuel cell technology, customers such as Dachser will also benefit from targeted enhancements designed to improve operational capability. For example, a more compact component layout and the resulting shorter wheelbase provide better compatibility with standard trailers. A new sensor system can respond to an extremely unlikely hydrogen leak, and it is now possible to spend the night in two standard beds installed in the truck cab. This improves the truck's comfort and flexible availability, particularly for long-haul drivers on multi-day missions. The NextGenH2 truck is therefore consistently designed around the requirements of daily transport operations and complements battery-electric trucks, especially in applications requiring flexibility and long ranges.

EU 2030 CO2 targets: regulation and reality must be aligned.

　　Daimler Truck is committed to decarbonizing transport and, like other companies in the European commercial vehicle industry, has put an extensive battery-electric vehicle portfolio into series production. However, market adoption is progressing too slowly to meet the European Commission's climate targets, which require a 43% reduction in CO2 emissions from new heavy-duty commercial vehicles by 2030 compared with 2019. Manufacturers therefore face potential existential fines, because most European markets still lack a comprehensive energy supply—especially at competitive prices—and the infrastructure required for these vehicles. As a result, the market share of heavy-duty electric trucks in Europe was only 2% in 2025. However, to achieve the 43% target, around 35% of new trucks registered in Europe would need to be battery-electric or hydrogen-powered by 2030.

　　For Mercedes-Benz Trucks, every percentage point of deviation from the target means a fine of around 120 million euros. If the target is missed, for example by 10 percentage points, based on 2025 performance, the Mercedes-Benz Trucks segment would no longer be profitable.

　　Daimler Truck therefore calls for an early review of the CO2 regulation, under which targets would be aligned with real-world conditions—namely the availability of infrastructure and customers' total cost of ownership.

Powerliner: a new-generation powertrain for higher efficiency and performance.

　　With Powerliner, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is presenting a new generation of conventional powertrain at IAA Transportation. The powertrain concept was developed as an integrated system consisting of engine, transmission and axles, combining further improvements in fuel efficiency with greater power, higher torque and a better driving experience. Technical innovations include a new combustion concept, optimized turbochargers, a new-generation transmission and a powertrain strategy designed for low engine speeds. The result is fuel savings of up to 4%, lower operating costs and improved traction and driving performance in daily operations.

　　In addition, the new-generation engines comprising the OM 470 and OM 471 will in future also be used in Daimler Buses vehicles. With Powerliner, Mercedes-Benz Trucks emphasizes the continued importance of modern diesel powertrains for applications where range, economic efficiency, robustness and maximum operational flexibility will remain key requirements in the future. At the same time, the new-generation powertrain helps further improve road freight efficiency by reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. It was also developed with future regulatory requirements in mind and provides the technical basis for future improvements in emissions and efficiency.

　　Powerliner is part of Daimler Truck's global heavy-duty engine platform, which is also the basis for the new Detroit Gen 6 engine series for the North American market. Through this cross-brand and cross-region technology approach, Daimler Truck leverages economies of scale and jointly develops key powertrain components for different applications worldwide. The new OM 470 and OM 471 engines will be produced at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Mannheim. Starting in April 2027, the new-generation powertrain will be used in all Mercedes-Benz Actros and Arocs.

Actros L and eActros 600 Anniversary Edition: "Tradition meets passion" for 130 years.

　　Mercedes-Benz Trucks is launching the "130 Years Truck Anniversary Edition" to mark 130 years of the truck at IAA Transportation. Under the guiding theme "Tradition meets passion," the company also pays tribute to customers and drivers who have a special connection to the brand and its vehicles.

　　The special edition transfers selected elements from the brand's history to current long-haul trucks. Historic design elements are combined with the ProCabin and an interior that unites workspace, living space and storage space.

　　For the first time, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is offering a version model available with both diesel and battery-electric powertrains. The edition is based on the Actros L and eActros 600 respectively, thus building a bridge between the 130-year history of the truck and the transformation of road freight.

　　Mercedes-Benz Trucks will offer the "130 Years Truck Edition" globally in a limited run of 400 units. Around 30 special exterior and interior equipment features make the anniversary model stand out.

New and enhanced safety assistance systems for trucks and buses.

　　With new and enhanced safety assistance systems (2), Daimler Truck is expanding the support it provides to drivers in particularly demanding traffic situations. The focus is on the new Active Cross Traffic Assist (7), which can support the driver when a risk of collision with fast-moving cross traffic or motorcycles is detected, and Active Side Guard Assist 3 (8), which completes the active support provided by the turning assist system on both sides of the vehicle and for the first time also includes a driver-side turning function supported by automatic braking (9).

　　Daimler Truck is also presenting enhanced Active Drive Assist 3 (10) for partially automated driving in all Mercedes-Benz Actros. New functions include rapid deactivation of the steering assistance function via a button on the steering wheel, storage of personal driver settings and enhanced active lane centering.

　　The portfolio is also complemented by camera-based Attention Assist 2 (11), which can detect signs of distraction, fatigue or possible microsleep and warn the driver. The new and enhanced systems have been developed for different applications in freight and passenger transport and, within their respective system limits, can support truck and bus drivers through warnings, braking interventions or assisted driving functions.

Daimler Buses modernizes its bus portfolio.

　　From 2027, Daimler Buses will equip its buses with a new-generation engine and a new transmission. The technology will be used in Setra ComfortClass, TopClass and double-decker models as well as Mercedes-Benz Travego, Tourismo and Tourrider models. Depending on the model and vehicle configuration, fuel consumption is expected to be reduced by up to 6%. The new electrical architecture will also provide the basis for additional safety and assistance systems. These include Active Side Guard Assist 3 (10) and Cross Traffic Assist (7).

　　Till Oberwörder, CEO of Daimler Buses, said: "With the new-generation engines and enhanced safety assistance systems (2), Daimler Truck underscores its innovative strength. Our buses also benefit from these developments. This shows how we leverage synergies across the Group to quickly introduce new technologies into different vehicle segments, thereby benefiting our customers."。

　　In addition, Daimler Buses is redesigning the driver's workplace in its buses. The completely new "Multimedia Cockpit Interactive" is intended to reduce the driver's workload in daily work. The main display and touchscreen bring together trip data, fuel consumption and other vehicle data. Selected functions can also be controlled by voice commands. New digital services expand the system's range of functions, including the latest traffic information, automatic map updates and connected traffic warnings. Ergonomic controls as well as compartments and storage spaces further improve the driver's workspace.

Digital services: expanding the integrated digital ecosystem.

　　Mercedes-Benz Trucks is continuously expanding its digital offerings and connecting vehicles, fleet management, connectivity, vehicle data and services more closely. With the new Fleetboard portfolio, customers gain solutions for vehicle and fleet transparency, data analysis, compliance, charging management and proactive vehicle diagnostics. This enables Mercedes-Benz Trucks to support transport companies in using vehicles efficiently, simplifying operational processes and increasing vehicle availability.

　　The new My TruckPoint Store complements this offering; digital services will in future be available for online booking and management through the store. At the same time, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is continuing to develop its TruckLive connectivity product and expanding the support it provides to drivers and fleet operators through additional digital functions.

　　The digital ecosystem begins with the vehicle itself and can then be expanded according to individual needs. In this way, Mercedes-Benz Trucks connects vehicles, fleet management, connectivity, data provision and proactive services throughout the vehicle lifecycle.

Daimler Truck Financial Services: integrated service solutions for the transition to CO2-free transport.

　　At IAA Transportation 2026, Daimler Truck Financial Services (DTFS) is presenting its integrated service ecosystem as a core component of Daimler Truck's service strategy. DTFS is evolving from a pure financial services provider into a full-service provider that integrates vehicles, infrastructure, digital services and financing into integrated solutions from a single source.

　　The portfolio includes flexible financing and leasing options, insurance, service bundles and innovative products such as Daimler Truck Payment for digital payment processes. Mercedes-Benz CharterWay positions Daimler Truck Financial Services as a flexible, comprehensive transport solutions provider. A rental fleet of around 200 Mercedes-Benz eActros trucks already makes it easier for customers to enter electric mobility and reduce risk, while the expansion of rental operations to Italy and Spain enables flexible access to vehicles and services in additional markets.

　　DTFS is also integrated into My TruckPoint for the first time, enabling fleet managers to centrally manage vehicle data, financing and service contracts and digital services such as Fleetboard through a single portal.

　　Stephan Unger, CEO of Daimler Truck Financial Services, said: "Customers want solutions that work in daily operations. That is why we integrate vehicles, charging, financing, services, payment and flexible use to reduce complexity and make decisions more predictable, from the initial quote to ongoing operations."。

Daimler Truck Defense: a global force for defense mobility.

　　With the launch of the new global brand Daimler Truck Defense, Daimler Truck is consolidating its global defense activities and continuously aligning the business for global growth. Over the coming years, the company will invest a three-digit million-euro amount in expanding its development, production, sales and service capabilities, with the goal of achieving defense business revenue of 1 billion euros by 2028.

　　Daimler Truck Defense brings together the strength of the Group's global technology, production and service network in one place. Customers gain access to a broad portfolio of military mobility and logistics solutions, as well as the industrial capabilities and resilient supply chains of one of the world's leading commercial vehicle manufacturers. The strategy envisages gradually expanding the range beyond Mercedes-Benz special trucks and making other Daimler Truck vehicle portfolios and brands available for military applications.

　　Through the close combination of civilian series production and military expertise, Daimler Truck Defense can fulfill orders quickly, at high quality and in large volumes. With a global service and support network of around 3,000 workshops in more than 150 countries, the company can provide armed forces around the world with high-performance mobility solutions and comprehensive assistance throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle. At the same time, the company is increasingly focusing on partnerships with system integrators, bodybuilders and technology companies.