Episode 4

Dr. Rainer Müller-Finkeldei shares exciting insights into the ongoing development of the battery-electric portfolio surrounding the eActros 600, the significance of new vehicle configurations like the eActros 600 Lowliner, and the progress being made in megawatt charging. Furthermore, he explains why battery-electric and hydrogen-powered drives are not competing technologies for Mercedes-Benz Trucks, but rather complementary ones, and what role the NextGen H2 Truck is set to play in long-haul transport in the future.

The conversation also focuses on the future of commercial vehicle development and how innovations can be brought into customers' daily operations faster. We talk about autonomous trucks, new driver assistance systems, the further development of diesel powertrains, digital services like TruckCharge, and the crucial importance of a robust charging and hydrogen infrastructure for scaling up emission-free transport. Additionally, we learn why Mercedes-Benz Trucks is continuing to expand its global development network and which technologies will shape the next generation of the Actros.

We also take an exclusive look at the highlights Mercedes-Benz Trucks is bringing to Hanover for IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026—ranging from new electric trucks and the next generation of hydrogen-powered vehicles to innovative assistance systems and digital solutions for the future of transportation.

The IAA TRANSPORTATION Podcast is a production of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA).

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