Mercedes-Benz Atego: The Star of Distribution Haulage Turns 25

The Mercedes-Benz Atego is a versatile and reliable truck that has been serving the needs of distribution haulage for 25 years. Launched in 1998, the Atego has won several awards and accolades, including the International Truck of the Year in 1999 and 2011. It has also been a pioneer of electric mobility with the Atego BlueTEC Hybrid 1222L model, which won the German Sustainability Award in 2010.

Atego: A Truck for Every Task

The Mercedes-Benz Atego was designed to meet the diverse requirements of the light to medium-duty truck segment, covering the gross vehicle weight range of 6.5 to 15 tonnes. The Atego offered a total of 25 basic types, six power output categories, and four cab variants at the time of its launch. Customers could choose between four-cylinder and six-cylinder diesel engines, generating 90 to 205 kW (122 to 279 hp) and a torque of 470 to 1,300 Nm. The Atego also featured a new frame concept, which enabled easy access and cross-cab access for the drivers, who had to get in and out of the vehicle up to 30 times a day.

The Atego set a new benchmark for profitability, with extended maintenance intervals and major assemblies’ mileage of 600,000 km. The Atego also offered a high level of comfort and convenience, with a redesigned cockpit, a new climate control system, and an optional Telligent automated gearshift system. The Atego was also linked to the Fleetboard telematics system, which provided data and services for efficient fleet management.

Atego: A Truck for Every Era

The Atego has undergone several updates and improvements over the years, adapting to the changing needs and challenges of the distribution haulage sector. In 2004, a new model was introduced, with a new front section, new headlamps, new exterior mirrors, and new interior design. The Atego also received a new nine-speed transmission, replacing the previous twelve-speed transmission. A new 12-ton payload-optimized model was also launched, with a low chassis, 17.5-inch tires, and a new 160 kW (218 hp) four-cylinder engine.

In 2006, the Atego dump truck versions were fitted with high-performance disc brake technology on all axles, enhancing the safety and performance of the vehicle. In 2010, the Atego received a facelift with new radiator grille, new bumper, new LED daytime running lights and new instrument cluster. The Atego also introduced new safety assistance systems, such as the Lane Keeping Assist and the Stability Control Assist. The Atego also became more fuel-efficient with the BlueEFFICIENCY Power technology, which reduced fuel consumption by up to 5%.

In 2013, a new model was launched, with a new cab design, new engines, new transmissions and new chassis. The Atego also offered new features, such as the multifunction steering wheel, the rain/light sensor, the Active Brake Assist 3 and the Eco Support. The Atego also became more versatile, with a wider range of wheelbases, axle ratios, suspension variants and body mounting options. The Atego also won the International Truck of the Year award for the second time, demonstrating its excellence and innovation.

Atego: A Truck for the Future

The Mercedes-Benz Atego is not only a truck for the present but also a truck for the future. The Atego has been a leader in electric mobility with the Atego BlueTEC Hybrid 1222L model, which was launched in 2010. The Atego BlueTEC Hybrid 1222L combines a four-cylinder diesel engine with an electric motor, which can be used for driving or braking. The Atego BlueTEC Hybrid 1222L reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 15%, as well as noise emissions. The Atego BlueTEC Hybrid 1222L was the first hybrid truck to win the German Sustainability Award for environmental and social benefits.

The Atego is also ready for digital transformation with the Mercedes-Benz Truck App Portal launched in 2018. The Mercedes-Benz Truck App Portal allows customers to download and use apps that enhance the functionality and efficiency of the Atego. The apps include navigation, fleet management, driver training, entertainment, and more. The Mercedes-Benz Truck App Portal also enables customers to integrate their own apps and services, creating a customized and connected experience.

The Mercedes-Benz Atego truck has been serving the distribution haulage sector for 25 years, with versatility, reliability, profitability, comfort, safety, and innovation. The Atego is a truck that has been evolving with the times, with new models, new features, new technologies, and new solutions. The Atego is a truck that is prepared for the future with electric mobility, digital connectivity, and sustainability. The Atego is a truck that is a star among distribution haulage trucks. @via Mercedes-Benz.