The future starts here

As a genuine special-purpose vehicle for municipal services, collection operations and short-radius distribution, the Econic comes with all the qualities you are looking for, whether in the waste-disposal sector or as a fire services vehicle, a tanker, a removals truck or a milk collection vehicle.

Cab

Large and comfortable, but with a friendly face – the driver's cab of the Econic. The lightweight Alu-Space cage of the Econic is available in two variants. In the standard high cab, for example, there is enough headroom to change into and out of working clothes while standing up.

Natural gas engine

First, and most importantly: the Econic with a natural gas engine is well prepared for the future - it meets the stringent EEV (Enhanced environmentally friendly vehicle) emissions standard and already betters the planned EURO 5 emissions standard now. After all, scarcely more than hot air leaves the exhaust pipe.
That’s down to its sophisticated electronic engine management system, the integral two-way catalytic converter and the natural combustion properties of natural gas. Added to this is the extremely smooth operation and more uniform combustion, which means that the natural gas Econic’s noise emission levels are up to 50% lower than those of a diesel engine with noise encapsulation. Accordingly the chassis of the natural gas Econic also meets the conditions required to obtain the German "Blue Environmental Angel" quality award.

Full air suspension

Whether a fixed or demountable body is fitted, the Econic’s air suspension gives you every possible advantage. The spring bellows, positioned well to the outside, plus the innovative stabiliser link mean that the Econic is a vehicle which retains good handling characteristics, even with a full load – something which also has a positive effect on the driver’s alertness. The standard electronic selflevelling system automatically adjusts the bellows pressure to different vehicle loads, which means that the vehicle suspension always operates in the optimum range and the frame always remains at the same height. The self-levelling suspension allows the ground clearance or angle of approach/departure to be adjusted individually to suit the application, and weather conditions, too. A lifting/lowering system is also available for all vehicle variants, with which the Econic can be lifted up to 200 mm or lowered by up to 60 mm at the front as well as the rear axis, depending on the variant.

Low frame concept

The Econic’s low-frame concept has significant advantages: the two-part design, with the lower front section exhibiting a pronounced offset, means that the frame allows a particularly low cab access height. The rear section of the frame ensures the greatest possible flexibility: this makes for more compact loading with shorter wheelbases and the same load volume. Or low bodies with the same payload and improved handling. This frame concept, after all, means that the Econic has a lower centre of gravity and therefore outstanding roadholding.

Automatic transmission

A highly efficient power transfer in constant stop-and-go operations is provided by a key-operated Allison automatic transmission with either five or six speeds.

Thanks to features such as

- non wearing torque converter,
- five close forward gear ratios with Overdrive,
- push-button operation,

both transmission variants provide an excellent and reliable low-maintenance basis.

Bodybuilding

The Econic’s frame is weightoptimised yet extremely robust. Because no components protrude above the upper edge of the frame, it is suitable for every type of body. The 50-mm hole pattern allows individual, cost-effective body solutions – without the need for additional drilling. Which means that the cataphoretic dip priming – the best corrosion protection currently available – remains undamaged.

Mid steer & rear steer

With the optional electronically/hydraulically steered mid steer or rear steer, active steering of the wheels ensures a minimal turning circle, and the ease of steering simplifies handling when at a standstill, making it easier to manoeuvre in the tightest of spots. On slippery surfaces the burden can be taken off these axles pneumatically, increasing the traction of the drive axle and making it easier to move off. These axles not only improve manoeuvrability but also increase the Econic’s payload. Like all axles in the Econic, the mid steer or rear steer features disc brakes and air suspension as standard.

Bluetec

The Econic is now powered by diesel engines which meet the EU's Euro 5 exhaust emission standards and are based on innovative BlueTec® diesel technology. Both exhaust emissions and fuel consumption are reduced thanks to SCR technology and an optimised combustion process. BlueTec® SCR diesel technology means extremely economical driving and exemption from driving bans in many countries.

Environment

Systematic environmental protection
The Wörth plant, where the Econic is manufactured, operates an environment management system, which is regularly scrutinised by independent environmental auditors and complies with all the requirements of the EMAS and ISO 14001 environment standards.

Recycling begins in the mind
That is why when it comes to the design and planning of a commercial vehicle, we immediately think of recycling too. The use of high-quality, easily recyclable materials, such as aluminium or SMC duroplastics, is just as important as the labelling of the installed parts – the only way to ensure segregated recycling and optimum reusability.

Natural-gas drive system
The Econic NGT (Natural Gas Technology) meets the stringent EEV (Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicle) emissions standards, and therefore makes an active contribution to environmental protection. In addition, the great smoothness and quieter combustion of the natural gas Econic reduce noise emissions by up to 50%.

Comfort

The Econic cab was specially developed for municipal services, collection operations and short-radius distribution. The Econic’s lightweight aluminium space cage structure is available in two variants. In the tall cab there is ample space to change work clothes and to move across the cab. For fire-fighting vehicles or removals trucks the lower version creates space for a body structure which protrudes over the top of the cab. Thanks to the low-floor concept, with low access, a level cab floor and a low frame, effective, safe and energy-saving working practices in the Econic begin the moment you get in. That goes for the driver and for the team of up to three passengers, who enter via a wide-opening folding door. Standard features, such as an ergonomic driver’s suspension seat and a steering wheel which is adjustable for height and reach, ensure ideal driving and working conditions. All control elements are positioned within easy reach of the driver. In addition to the generously- proportioned panoramic windows, an instrument panel, which dips slightly towards the co-driver’s side, and a fully glazed folding door ensure even greater visibility, enhancing safety. Numerous shelves and stowage compartments, plus the preinstallation for communication units or a reversing camera, produce a professional working environment.

Quality

The highest quality for the highest demands: that’s what Atego stands for. In many ways:

The Atego sets high environmental standards by falling well below current particulate emission limit values, it sets standards concerning particulate matter, CO2 and NOx emissions and is a firm candidate for the green fine particle badge.

The Atego offers the greatest range of safety systems, such as for instance the Brake Assist system, the integrated Hillholder of the optional Telligent® brake system, and the new, further-developed disc brakes, which are not only safer, but also significantly more robust.

With its special quality, the Atego contributes quite decisively to the driver’s workplace comfort. Seating comfort, the ergonomically ordered controls, the clarity of the displays with on-board check system, the large stowage compartments, the pleasant heating, among other things, all deserve special mention here....

At the same time, the Atego’s high quality extends to, among other things, the engine, the ease of gearshifting and its handling characteristics, thus having a positive influence on the low lifecycle costs.

Economy

The Econic is first and foremost a Mercedes-Benz. So naturally it has convincingly powerful performance combined with low consumption, long maintenance intervals and great longevity.
Whether it is fitted with a fixed body or with different demountable systems such as a hooktype lift or demountable platform, you can be sure that the Econic is an economical vehicle. The combination of full air suspension and a low frame provides an ideal basis for almost every application and every body structure you could wish for.

Services

Branch-specific with no limits
Service also plays a crucial role when it comes to the operational reliability and availability of the vehicle. With our network of workshops, 24-hour service, the MercedesService Card and, for example, CharterWay Mercedes-Benz delivers optimum after-care, ensuring that you remain mobile. We also offer you another key advantage: CTT – Mercedes-Benz Custom Tailored Trucks – allows you to purchase, direct from the manufacturer, an Econic which is individually tailor-made to suit its particular field of application and your particular requirements.

Cab

Large, comfortable and at the same time open in design – that is the Econic cab. The Econic’s lightweight aluminium space cage structure is available in two variants. In the tall cab there is ample space to change work clothes and to move across the cab.

Exterior

The Axor cab extends the vehicle's concept of flexibility. Choose between two spacious L-cabs for long-distance The standard full air suspension and the low frame, which forms the perfect base for a variety of bodies, offer ideal conditions for fitting the Econic with different demountable systems. This is becoming increasingly important where costeffective deployment in sectors such as waste-disposal is concerned.
When used as a fire-fighting vehicle, the advantages of the low-slung frame come to the fore, particularly when faced with low thoroughfares. And the Econic’s small turning circle makes child’s play of manoeuvring in narrow, twisting streets or cramped courtyards. Optional mid steer or rear steer also increase manoeuvrability

Interior

Thanks to the low-floor concept, with low access, a level cab floor and a low frame, effective, safe and energy-saving working practices in the Econic begin the moment you get in. That goes for the driver and for the team of up to three passengers, who enter via a wide-opening folding door. Standard features, such as an ergonomic driver’s suspension seat and a steering wheel which is adjustable for height and reach, ensure ideal driving and working conditions. All control elements are positioned within easy reach of the driver. In addition to the generously- proportioned panoramic windows, an instrument panel, which dips slightly towards the co-driver’s side, and a fully glazed folding door ensure even greater visibility, enhancing safety. Numerous shelves and stowage compartments, plus the preinstallation for communication units or a reversing camera, produce a professional working environment. And the powerful heating and ventilation system and the airconditioning ensure the perfect working climate on board the Econic, whatever the weather.

Transmission

A highly efficient power transfer in constant stop-and-go operations is provided by a key-operated Allison automatic transmission with either five or six speeds.

Thanks to features such as

- non wearing torque converter,
- five close forward gear ratios with Overdrive,
- push-button operation,

both transmission variants provide an excellent and reliable low-maintenance basis.

Axles

The Econic is fitted as standard with the tried and tested HL7 driven axle. The HL7 is characterised by its robust, reliable design and long service intervals. The geometric positioning of the axle’s assemblies ensures optimum ground clearance, particularly with low frame heights, allowing maximum body capacity at the same time. And the standard differential lock and ASR (available as an option) ensure optimum traction, even under difficult conditions. For special traction requirements, a 6x4 chassis variant is available with two driven rear axles (HD7/HL7).

Brakes

The Econic’s environment-friendly engines: reduced noise, reduced consumption, reduced emissions – but packed with ideas
Diesel or gas? Even with the Econic’s environment-friendly engines, you have a choice. Whichever you opt for, the Econic engines are precisely configured for the typical stresses which a special-purpose vehicle faces on a daily basis, including long-term operation in stop/go traffic and the frequent use of a PTO.

Low-Frame

The Econic low frame is ideal for body builders. All attachments are located below the frame’s top edge. This ensures planning freedom without fighting for space. A hole pattern at 50mm intervals along the frame’s longitudinal members enables customized and economical body solutions with fast and cost-effective fitting. In normal operating conditions there's no need for a subframe on Econic. The rear cross member is bolted and easy to remove and re-fit, with wiring looms having a built-in extension capability. Wheelbase and chassis alterations can therefore be easily carried out.

The Programmable Special Module (PSM)

The Programmable Special Module (PSM) will impress your body builder. The controller, pre-installed as standard, lets body builders influence the Econic – for example, control engine speed – even with "non CAN capable" body electronics. The PSM converts your instructions, then routes them to the CAN bus of the Econic. Leaving nothing that can’t be done. And nothing you can’t collect or distribute operating the Econic.

The Econic cab comes pre-wired for subsequent fitment of roof beacons, body lights and CCTV equipment.

Suspension

The Econic comes as standard with air suspension all round. This enables individual settings of entrance level, frame height and ground clearance. Giving you the optimum basis for a wide variety of fixed and swap bodies. The standard-fitted electronic level adjustment automatically adapts the air suspension pressure to varying load conditions.

Steering

Tight-access driving, high-precision manoeuvres: all part and parcel of day-to-day waste disposal work. Child’s play for the Econic with its precise, single circuit variable ratio, power steering system. The easy-to-handle steering wheel is adjustable for height (66mm) and inclination (about 13 degrees). A variable steering ratio provides normal steering effort in the straight ahead position with reducing effort as steering lock is increased.

Brakes

The Econic is fitted as standard with 10 Bar fully floating 2-piston brake calipers and internally ventilated disc brakes.

Other features:

- a park brake
- automatic brake adjustment
- brake lining wear display
- and, of course, ABS

One thing’s for sure: this brake set-up keeps you in control at all times, even if others around you start losing their grip.

Municipal and waste disposal vehicle

The Econic is the specialist for municipal waste disposal, perfecting the collection, transport and turn around of waste products. Whether as a rear, side or front loader, the Econic is the ideal vehicle for the disposal sector.
The low seating position, convenient access/exit and outstanding manoeuvrability of the Econic are just a few of the advantages which ease the workload of its crew.

Fire Service

Econic emergency vehicles fight fires, protect and save lives on a daily basis in the fire services. Their technical concept makes them the ideal vehicles for the emergency services.
The low cab facilitates the installation of a turntable ladder, for example.
A short wheelbase combined with a hydraulically steered trailing axle provides the level of manoeuvrability that is essential for a speedy response in e.g. the narrow confines of historic town areas. Outstanding visibility allows absolutely precise manoeuvring, while the comfort of the Econic has a positive effect on the crew.

Tanker

The Econic is particularly deeply impressive where height can be a problem, for example in airports. Thanks to its low cab, the Econic has proved outstanding as a refuelling vehicle in airport ground service.