Mercedes is launching the third generation of its OM 471 heavy-duty commercial vehicle engine. The up to 530 hp six-cylinder is up to four percent more economical.
Four percent less consumption doesn't sound like an earth-shattering sensation. Even drivers who meticulously document consumption will hardly celebrate such savings. The situation is different in the truck segment, where a lot of kilometers are covered, especially in long-distance transport. Four percent less fuel consumption over the entire operating time is already clearly noticeable.
"With the third generation of the OM 471, we consistently focused on the needs of our customers. Our goal was to reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) and lower fuel consumption. Our customers benefit as well as the environment," explains Karin Rådström, head of the Mercedes-Benz truck division. The Mercedes trucks with the new OM 471 can be ordered immediately and will then be delivered from October 2022.
Optimized combustion, new charging
The progress in efficiency of the third generation of the OM 471 results from several internal engine innovations. For example, the cylinder head, the geometry of the piston recess and the injection nozzle design have been optimized. The injection pressure increases to 250 bar. At the same time, the compression ratio of the in-line six-cylinder has increased from 18.3:1 to 20.3:1. All measures together should lead to more efficient combustion. But the optimized turbocharging should have the greatest effect. According to Mercedes, the new charger in the version with 476 hp leads to the highest consumption efficiency. There is also a new turbo for the most powerful version with 530 hp. This variant is designed for use in the heavy-duty and construction segment.
In addition to an engine oil pressure control valve that is also new, Mercedes has taken other measures to increase efficiency. The entire exhaust gas aftertreatment system has been reworked, it is now supposed to meet the strictest exhaust gas standards such as Euro VIe. A new automated transmission control called "PowerShift Advanced" ensures faster and more precise gear changes and at the same time enables smoother starting and acceleration. When changing gears, the torque interruption time is reduced by up to 40 percent.
Optionally with torque add-on
Another highlight is the extended Top Torque program, in which more power is only available when it is really needed - for example when driving onto a freeway or when overtaking. Available for engine power ratings of 450 hp and 476 hp in conjunction with the G281 gearbox, the crankshaft now rotates a powerful 200 Nm more in gears 7 to 12 in the "A Standard" program.
Like its predecessor, the new OM 471 with a displacement of 12.8 liters is used in the heavy-duty Actros, Antos and Arocs truck series for heavy-duty long-distance transport, distribution and construction work.,
Conclusion
Mercedes has revised its OM 471 commercial vehicle engine for the heavy series. With optimized combustion, reduced internal friction and a new turbocharger, together with a further optimized transmission, the consumption of the 12.8-liter in-line six-cylinder is to be reduced by up to four percent.
