In an extraordinary move to spotlight e-mobility, road safety, and the crucial role of truck drivers, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is setting its sights on a bold new challenge. The brand plans to reclaim the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for “the longest distance driving in reverse in an articulated truck (individual)” — this time with its all-electric flagship, the eActros 600. The goal? To drive backwards for more than 100 kilometers, eclipsing the current 2020 record of around 89 kilometers, which was achieved with a diesel truck in the United States.
The record-breaking attempt is scheduled for June 4th at the Motorsport Arena Oschersleben in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. The mission doesn’t end there — once the closed-track record is set, Mercedes-Benz Trucks plans to take the eActros 600 an additional 30 kilometers in reverse on public roads, finishing triumphantly at the new Daimler Truck Global Parts Center in Halberstadt.
At the wheel will be Marco Hellgrewe, a 50-year-old officer in the German Armed Forces and a passionate truck enthusiast. Hellgrewe isn’t new to the spotlight — he first set the reverse driving record back in 2008 by covering 64 kilometers in a diesel truck. Now, he’s returning to push the limits once again, but this time behind the controls of a groundbreaking electric machine.
“As a passionate truck driver, it’s an honor for me to attempt this record again,” says Hellgrewe. “Technology has evolved immensely since my last drive, and no one has yet achieved this with an electric truck. The eActros 600 represents the future of long-haul e-mobility. Reversing for hours will be a challenge, but the test drives have been promising. It’s a lot of fun — and surprisingly smooth with the eActros 600. I’m deeply grateful to Mercedes-Benz Trucks for their support.”
Rainer Müller-Finkeldei, Head of Product Engineering at Mercedes-Benz Trucks, praises the spirit behind the initiative. “Marco’s idea embodies the pioneering attitude that drives our transformation. This event not only highlights the capabilities of the eActros 600 but also draws attention to vital societal topics: the need for e-mobility, enhanced road safety, and greater recognition of professional drivers.”
Müller-Finkeldei continues: “Our eActros 600 shows that the right electric trucks are ready for the market. However, broader support for charging infrastructure and purchase incentives is needed. Our safety systems often exceed legal requirements, and raising public awareness of professional drivers’ skills is more critical than ever, especially given the growing driver shortage.”
Driving for a Greater Cause
The event isn’t just about setting records — it’s about making a positive social impact. Mercedes-Benz Trucks has partnered with two organizations: Blicki e.V., which teaches children about road safety, and PROFI – Pro Fahrer-Image e.V., an association that promotes the value of the truck driving profession. Both groups’ logos will be proudly displayed on the record-setting eActros 600.
During the event, Blicki will hold traffic safety workshops for schoolchildren in Halberstadt, and Mercedes-Benz Trucks will provide financial support to both associations. Prof. Dr. Dirk Engelhardt, Chairman of PROFI, comments: “We are proud to support this project. It highlights the essential contribution of professional drivers and showcases how innovation can shape the future of transport.” Dirk Hendler, Managing Director of Blicki, adds: “This project is a fantastic opportunity to promote road safety among children and families.”
The Journey to Halberstadt
The first phase of the challenge will take place on the Motorsport Arena Oschersleben’s winding track — a location demanding precise maneuvering through 14 tight bends, yet offering a safer, controlled environment for such an ambitious feat. Following a mandatory rest break, Hellgrewe will reverse another 30 kilometers on public roads, under police escort, at speeds between 10 and 20 km/h, before arriving at Halberstadt’s new Daimler Truck Global Parts Center.
Meet the Star: The eActros 600
The eActros 600, unveiled at the end of 2024, has already proven its reliability with a 15,000-kilometer “European Testing Tour” and a 6,500-kilometer “Winter Testing Tour” through Northern Europe. Recognized as the “International Truck of the Year 2025,” it’s a showcase of the brand’s commitment to future-ready transport solutions.
Powered by three battery packs totaling 621 kWh using long-lasting LFP technology, the eActros 600 delivers a range of around 500 kilometers without intermediate charging — a figure that can be significantly extended with efficient driving. Daily ranges of over 1,000 kilometers are achievable with brief, strategic charging stops during statutory driver breaks. Designed for heavy-duty operations, it can handle a gross combination mass of up to 44 tons, with a standard payload around 22 tons within the EU.
Pioneering Safety and Infrastructure
Mercedes-Benz Trucks continues to lead the way in safety. Advanced features like Active Brake Assist 6, Active Sideguard Assist 2, and MirrorCam technology ensure maximum protection for drivers and other road users alike. Particularly relevant for the record attempt, MirrorCam enhances visibility while reversing and assists in navigating tight spaces — a crucial advantage for Hellgrewe’s challenge.
The brand is also working to accelerate the expansion of electric truck infrastructure. Through initiatives like TruckCharge and partnerships like Milence (a joint venture with TRATON and Volvo Group), Daimler Truck is committed to establishing more than 3,000 fast-charging points across Europe by 2030, addressing the pressing need for better charging networks for heavy-duty vehicles.
A Record with a Purpose
This record attempt is much more than a headline-grabbing stunt. It’s a powerful statement about the future of transport, the necessity of sustainable innovation, and the everyday heroism of professional drivers. As Mercedes-Benz Trucks and Marco Hellgrewe prepare to take on the challenge, the journey to Halberstadt promises to be one for the history books — and a major milestone on the road to a cleaner, safer future.
