Merc reveals new special-build Actros L Edition 3

Mercedes-Benz has just released a new limited-edition version of its Actros L.

The Actros L Edition 3 made its first UK appearance at the recent Road Transport Expo event at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire.

Taking delivery of one of these exclusive vehicles will not be easy, as only 400 are being built worldwide – and of those, it’s expected no more than 20 UK-specification right-hand drive models will make it to these shores.

Merc said the Actros L Edition 3 packs an “exhaustive” standard specification which includes many items usually only available as optional extras, grouped together under the Driving, Comfort, Media and Stowage Packages. Highlights include:

• Cab exterior painted in exclusive White Aluminium Metallic, with unique stripe design fading to Metallic Steel Grey
• Sun visor with special EDITION 3 lettering and twin auxiliary LED headlamps
• Illuminated Mercedes-Benz star grille badge in dark chrome
• A suite of EDITION 3 badges and additional stainless-steel trims

The cab interior is special too. The Comfort suspended driver’s seat, steering wheel, door handles and instrument panel are all swathed in fine nappa leather with contrast stitching, while the PremiumComfort mattress ensures a restful night’s sleep.

Other highlights include a slide-and-tilt glass sunroof, and extensive ambient LED lighting.

Safety and Sight Packages add further enhancements: Multimedia Cockpit, interactive, Proximity Control Assist and Roll Control Assist (for rigids) or Stability Control Assist (for artics), and LED headlights with cleaning system, automatic dipped/main beam and cornering function all feature.

Actros L Edition 3 will be available as a tractor unit or rigid chassis, with a choice of either BigSpace or GigaSpace cab.

Engines range from 421 bhp to the 15.6-litre, 625 bhp range-topper – all of which drive through new and improved PowerShift Advanced automated transmissions.

Merc said it expects most vehicles ordered will be at the upper end of this power spectrum.

UK special build

One lucky British operator, though, is in for an extra treat. Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK has teamed up with automotive enhancement specialist Kuda Automotive to add some more very special touches to a vehicle that will be sold on the home market.

This truck boasts a 21.5-inch LUXMOV flatscreen smart TV, an 800W TruckChef microwave oven, and three CabStore lockers giving an additional 500 litres of storage space.

Across the chassis, a large TreadSafe platform provides a level and safe working area behind the cab, while special sideskirts for 6×2 models add improved aerodynamics and a smooth, smart appearance.

“The Road Transport Expo was a fantastic event for us, with a number of very significant product launches – including the debut of the Actros L Edition 3,” said David Simm, Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK product manager.

“This vehicle is a driver’s dream and, thanks to our collaboration with Kuda Automotive, one extra special unit is decked out with bespoke enhancements to suit UK requirements.”

Kuda Automotive commercial director, Tim Vincent, added: “We worked together very closely with Mercedes-Benz Trucks on this project and we’re delighted with the results. The features we’ve added, such as the CabStore lockers and LUXMOV TV, are very much focused on the UK market.”