Electric Mercedes Truck Embarks on 28,000-Mile Global Circumnavigation

An electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 truck, retrofitted with a living module to serve as a motorhome, is preparing for an ambitious 28,000-mile circumnavigation of the globe. Professional truck driver and content creator Tobias Wagner, known as Elektrotrucker, plans to complete the journey through more than 30 countries in approximately one year, with a target of no more than 80 charging stops.

This expedition marks a significant test for battery-electric truck technology, aiming to be the first known global circumnavigation solely on battery power. A key challenge will be achieving a target range of 621 miles on a single charge, a figure substantially exceeding the truck's typical range for freight transport.

From Freight Truck to Rolling Home

The converted vehicle is based on the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600, designed for long-haul freight and equipped with three lithium iron phosphate battery packs totaling 621 kWh. Under standard, fully loaded freight conditions, Mercedes-Benz estimates the truck's range at about 310 miles. However, Wagner's setup features a custom living module instead of a heavy trailer, and modifications like single rear tires and expedition equipment aim to reduce weight and rolling resistance.

The finished expedition vehicle weighs approximately 34,170 pounds and is powered by Mercedes' electric axle and a four-speed transmission. The eActros 600 delivers continuous power of about 536 horsepower, with peak output reaching roughly 805 horsepower.

The 621-Mile Range Target and Charging Strategy

The ambitious 621-mile range target for the expedition vehicle is based on the lighter weight of the setup and potential hypermiling techniques. Achieving this would double the truck's standard projected range.

The route will cover approximately 28,000 miles with a goal of limiting charging stops to 80. This averages to about 350 miles between charges, though actual distances will vary significantly. The expedition will traverse regions where high-powered truck charging infrastructure is less developed, including Central and East Asia, Australia, the United States, and Latin America.

To facilitate charging worldwide, the eActros 600 supports fast charging up to 400 kW, capable of charging the battery from 10% to 80% in about 70 minutes. Mercedes-Benz has also demonstrated Megawatt Charging System technology for even faster charging. The truck is equipped with charging connections on both sides and adapters for various international charging standards. Additionally, Wagner carries his own Alpitronic DC charging station, allowing charging from AC connections at up to 43 kW as a backup.

All-Electric Living Module and Support Vehicle

The rear of the truck houses a 13-foot expedition module by Bliss Mobil, featuring a U-shaped dining area, kitchen, bathroom, and a retractable bed. The living quarters are self-sufficient, powered by a separate 400-Ah lithium battery supported by 1,000 watts of solar power. This system runs appliances like an induction cooktop and refrigerator without relying on diesel or propane.

For areas inaccessible to the large truck, a Honda WN7 electric motorcycle is carried on the back. This motorcycle, with its 9.3-kWh battery and 67 horsepower, offers an alternative for exploring remote locations.

Cost and Implications

The specialized, one-off expedition build is estimated to cost approximately $796,600, excluding the electric motorcycle. While not a production vehicle for consumers, the journey's outcome could provide valuable insights into the capabilities and limitations of long-range electric vehicle travel, particularly concerning range, charging infrastructure, and battery performance under diverse real-world conditions.

The expedition is scheduled to depart from IAA Transportation 2026 in Hanover, Germany, on September 20. The results of this extensive trip could significantly inform the future development and adoption of electric transportation globally.