Mercedes-Benz Atego 918

Powertrain and Drivetrain Features

The Mercedes-Benz Atego 918 (post-2013) is powered by the OM 934 5.1L four-cylinder engine, producing 130 kW (177 hp) and 750 Nm of torque. This unit uses a high-pressure common rail injection system and integrated single-box aftertreatment, including SCR and DPF. The engine is electronically linked to the standard Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated gearbox, enabling fuel-saving features like EcoRoll and precise RPM-band management. Pre-2013 Euro 5 variants used the OM 904 LA 4.25L unit (Unit-Pump injection) with 675 Nm, paired with either manual or optional automated transmissions.

Chassis, Suspension, and Axle Configurations

The Atego 918 chassis employs a high-strength steel frame with continuous 50 mm hole spacing, facilitating specialist body mounting. Standard axle setup is 4x2, with 4x4 variants (permanent or engageable) offered for demanding terrain. Suspension options include full parabolic leaf (ideal for tippers), steel-air combination (front leaf, rear air for distribution bodies), and full rear air for enhanced ride comfort. Wheelbases range from 3020 mm to 4820 mm, supporting compact tippers through to long box or curtainsider bodies. Chassis cab kerb weight varies from 3,900 kg to 4,700 kg, leaving a typical payload of 4,800–5,600 kg at 9.5 t GVW. Many 918s are de-rated to 7.49 t for licensing flexibility without altering technical robustness.

Cabin, Technology, and Safety

ClassicSpace S-Cab (short) and L-Cab (long) cabs are supplied, with Standard or Comfort cockpit configurations to suit urban or regional tasks. Features include a low single-step entry, air-suspended driver’s seat (optionally climatised), multifunction steering wheel, and infotainment with USB/Bluetooth. From 2013, ESP is standard; from 2024, ABA 6 and ASGA 2 provide advanced active braking and turn assist using radar/camera fusion. EBS, ABS, and ASR are standard, with available Lane Keeping Assist and multi-stage engine braking (up to 235 kW) supporting demanding routes. Telematics-based Mercedes-Benz Uptime is included for predictive maintenance and extended service intervals.

Configurability and Specialist Applications

Atego 918’s modular platform and widespread bodybuilder support enable a broad range of uses, from logistics (box, curtainsider, reefer) to tippers, cranes, skip loaders, and municipal vehicles. The standard 50 mm pre-drilled frame and robust chassis underpin its popularity for custom and specialist applications, reinforcing its reputation for durability, configurability, and premium operational performance in the 7.5–9.5 t medium-duty segment.