Plant report: how an Actros becomes an Edition 2

One instrument panel after the other hangs over the production line. Here in the Mercedes‑Benz Wörth plant, the production-line employees know exactly what to do when. Step‑by‑step they work through the equipment in the cockpit with the help of a list. The instrument panel which is up next looks visibly different to the others – for a start, it’s covered with a beige-coloured cover. And what’s underneath is reminiscent of the S‑Class. Mercedes‑Benz Trucks has covered it with black nappa leather. Various interior parts come in a carbon-fibre look. And it’s already clear that in the next few hours, a special truck will be born on this production line.

The Actros Edition 2 special model is limited to 400 units and has everything it needs to be the truck flagship over the coming years.

Here everything is done by hand.

The row of cabs in the cab interior fittings section provides for a colourful assembly line. In this production stage too, one of the cabs in particular stands out. A special decal with the so-called “star pattern” between the B and C pillar is visible.

Everything that is carried out on this assembly line is done by hand. If this weren’t the case, it would not be possible to handle the sheer quantity of possible equipment options and work steps. On the Edition 2 for example, the nappa leather instrument panel is now being fitted. It is only one of many features in the Edition interior. The truck will be equipped with such appointments as a high-quality leather steering wheel, leather door handles with topstitching and a roof hatch equipped with ambient lighting.

It takes around six hours for all of the equipment to be installed in the truck’s cab. Then the cab – shown here with magno cerussite grey paint – is fitted to the chassis, where it thrones above an extremely powerful 12.8‑litre six-cylinder engine with an output of 390 kW. 

No matter whether its the decals on the side trim, the wiring for the four additional headlamps in the special Edition sun visor or the stainless steel axle caps and the aluminium steps in the side panelling – small teams work on the individual features, one after another. Standard components are removed and luxury parts installed in their place. “The plastic steps up to the cab, for example, get replaced with stainless steel steps.” Plus numerous other visual details are added on both the inside and outside, including the “Edition 2” logo or the illuminated emblem in the entrance.

Dominic Rutgers finds the Edition 2 “star pattern” decals the ultimate highlight among all of the equipment. “I am proud to be involved,” he says as he touches the small stars. “I’m particularly looking forward to seeing one of these vehicles out on the road.”

Photos: Henrik Morlock
Video: Martin Schneider-Lau