Daimler Trucks declined the opportunity to provide a vehicle for testing. Therefore, Euro NCAP tested and rated the most recent well specified vehicle obtainable - a vehicle first registered in July 2024. The manufacturer informs us that it is not representative of the safety performance of their latest generation, which only became available later in 2024.As tested, the Actros L offers a solid 3-star safety performance. It is the tallest truck tested in this sector but with CMS available it still manages a good Safe Driving score. It provides a very good range of crash avoidance technologies but the performance of some of the functions was limited.

The Actros performs well in Safe Driving. It is a tall vehicle but its use of camera monitor systems to replace mirrors helps it achieve an acceptable direct vision score. The CMS provides an enhanced class II/IV views but it retains conventional class V/VI mirrors, lacking the enhanced corner view. The Actros scores full marks for seat belt reminders and its’ driver monitoring has a novel ‘safe stop’ feature that will automatically bring the vehicle to a controlled stop should the driver become unresponsive. A close following distance warning is provided and use of the ACC reduces the risk of front into rear collision. It also has a very good speed assist system.

Mercedes-Benz were first to market with many of the collision avoidance systems Euro NCAP have evaluated and they offer technologies in all the areas assessed. The AEB is very good at avoiding front to rear collisions with vehicles but the performance in frontal collisions with pedestrians and cyclists is no longer class leading. An emergency lane keep assist system is available but its performance was rated poorly because it permitted an excessive excursion from the lane risking collisions with other vehicles or roadside hazards. Mercedes-Benz pioneered the development of an automated braking system to protect cyclists in turning collisions, a potential game changer in a very emotive and high profile crash type. The system remains one of only two available on the market.