Daimler has revised its OM 471 heavy-duty engine, just four years after its launch.
The 12.8-litre, 6-cylinder global engine, which in Europe is offered in the Mercedes-Benz Actros, Axor and Antos models, is claimed to be more fuel-efficient than its predecessor. It is also 20kg lighter, offers more low-rev torque and has a new top power rating of 530hp (2,600Nm).
A key component of this second generation engine is an overhauled X-Pulse injection system, which features an improved pressure capacity (up to 2,700 bar) and an eight-hole nozzle (previously seven), increasing flow rate by 10%.
The old Borg Warner asymmetric turbocharger has been replaced by a new Daimler-designed and built version.
The EGR flap has been positioned further forwards in the exhaust manifold, resulting in a lower EGR rate and improved fuel economy. The downside to this is a slight increase in AdBlue consumption.
Capitalising on the engine’s new characteristics, Daimler is offering a longer final drive ratio of 2.53 as standard, compared with the previous 2.611. This, it said, helps achieve fuel economy improvements of up to 3%.
The new engine can be ordered as of this month, with first deliveries expected in October. Mercedes said it will charge an additional €2,450, but justifies this price hike with potential fuel economy improvements.
It estimated that the average European haulier (covering 130,000km per annum) will use 1,100 litres less fuel each year, equating to a €5,000 saving over four years.
A spokesman said: “Half of the saving goes to the customer and half goes to us for future developments.”
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