Big Mercedes-Benz tractor unit for Viktor Baumann

The specially developed heavy duty tractor unit for Viktor Baumann to haul 1,000-plus tonne loads. Photo: Mercedes-Benz

Specialist heavy transport company Viktor Baumann has added a new heavy haul tractor unit to its transport fleet in Germany.

The new Mercedes-Benz Arocs is specially converted for heavy duty transport and will be able to pull more than 1,000 tonnes. It is a new 625 hp SLT 4463 AS 8x6 converted by Paul Nutzfahrzeuge in Bavaria.

Coupled with other trucks the new one will be able to handle especially large loads in a gross combination weight significantly above 1,000 tonnes, the manufacturer said. Typical loads will be related to the energy industry, for example, transformers and heat exchangers.

It is the only all wheel drive Arocs with a wide cab, the manufacturer said. The retrofitted BigSpace cab is 2.5 metres wide instead of standard 2.3 metres to accommodate two operators on long trips. In addition to this work from Paul, there was input from RKG Truck Service, the Mercedes-Benz Wörth plant and the Mercedes-Benz Molsheim conversion plant, also in Germany.

Commenting on the latest delivery Ronald Ott, head of sales Mercedes-Benz Trucks and Fuso Germany, said, “Today we are handing over a vehicle that sets new standards in heavy duty transport after several months of conversion. Thanks to the excellent co-operation of all partners involved, we are confident that this heavy duty truck will convince on every lane metre and offer a very comfortable workplace for the driver.”

Rear coupling on Viktor Baumann’s new 8x6 Mercedes-Benz Arocs. Photo: Mercedes-Benz

Heavy duty special

The new tractor is designed to be the one attached to the front of the trailer or modular transporter. From the factory it already had a reinforced chassis and suitable drivetrain.

The Molsheim factory added the leading axle (for a total of four), the heavy duty front (Rockinger 56e) and rear couplings and the heavy duty slider under ther ballast box. At the rear goes a 1,000 tonne Rockinger RO58E coupling. Paul also added a ballast platform from Greiner to increase weight and therefore traction.

The conversion took around four months and included fitment of around 9,500 parts.

Front coupling on Viktor Baumann’s new 8x6 Mercedes-Benz Arocs. Photo: Mercedes-Benz