Mercedes-Benz Trucks is advancing its commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles with the launch of the CB400 reworked high-voltage battery, a genuine spare part now available for the first-generation eActros 300/400 and the eEconic. This initiative marks a significant step in extending battery lifecycles and reducing CO₂ emissions across Daimler Truck’s electric commercial vehicle portfolio.
Developed at the Kompetenzzentrum für emissionsfreie Mobilität (KEM) in Mannheim, the CB400 project underscores a strong push toward resource-efficient vehicle maintenance. Used batteries are collected, disassembled, cleaned, and rebuilt to meet current series standards—ensuring like-new performance, verified safety, and full software compatibility.
Cost-Effective, Carbon-Conscious
Compared to producing brand-new units, each reworked CB400 battery helps cut CO₂e emissions by approximately one third, thanks to the reuse of high-quality components. Those batteries deemed unfit for refurbishment are recycled responsibly, and many are earmarked for future second-life applications, such as stationary energy storage systems.
“With the CB400 reworked concept, we offer our customers a cost-efficient and sustainable solution that reuses high-quality components, thereby reducing resource consumption and greenhouse gas emissions — all while maintaining consistently high quality,” says Christian Vrbek, Team Leader for Remanufacturing Zero Emission Vehicles at Daimler Truck.
Tested, Trusted, and Backed by Warranty
Each CB400 battery is thoroughly tested for function and leaks, updated with the latest software, and backed by the Mercedes-Benz Trucks parts warranty. Compatibility across various power levels ensures a seamless fit with the installed battery packs in both the eActros and eEconic models.
Bridging Past Innovation to Future Vision
Although production of the current-generation eActros 300/400 ends later this year, demand for reliable spare parts remains high. The CB400 offering ensures that fleet operators have an economically and ecologically viable solution to support vehicle uptime and performance. Simultaneously, insights from this project are already informing the development of future batteries, including the CEB500, destined for the next-gen eActros 600.
The roots of the CB400 project stretch back to a student initiative in 2021. It has since evolved into a multi-disciplinary innovation blueprint, setting new standards in commercial vehicle battery refurbishment.
The Backbone of Battery Innovation
Mannheim plays a crucial role in Daimler Truck’s electrification strategy. The Battery Technology Center (BTC), spread over 10,000 square meters, combines development and prototyping under one roof. This facility focuses on cell manufacturing knowledge, pilot-scale production, and the creation of test batteries for validation.
The broader Mercedes-Benz Mannheim plant, founded in 1908, is now a cornerstone for electric powertrain development and production. With over 4,600 employees, it supports engine and component manufacturing, training over 11,000 apprentices to date.
As Robert Braun, Head of the KEM, notes: “Every Daimler Truck vehicle with an alternative drivetrain carries a piece of KEM expertise.” With three decades of experience and a dedicated focus on alternative powertrains, the KEM is central to shaping the future of zero-emission mobility.
Source: Daimler Truck