New Mercedes-Benz Atego’s technology, performance raise benchmark in Nigeria’s truck business

New Mercedes-Benz Atego’s technology, performance raise benchmark in Nigeria’s truck business

 

Weststar Associates Limited, authorised general distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Nigeria, has raised the bar in the country’s medium-duty truck market with the introduction of the new Mercedes-Benz Atego 1726, combining stronger performance, enhanced braking technology and greater versatility to meet the increasingly demanding needs of Nigerian businesses.

The new Atego 1726, which replaces the widely acclaimed Atego 1725, represents a significant evolution of the model, bringing together improved engineering, enhanced drivetrain technology and greater operational efficiency for transport and logistics operators.

The latest addition to Weststar’s commercial vehicle portfolio has been designed for businesses where reliability, vehicle uptime and total cost of ownership are critical to profitability.

Powered by the proven OM 926 six-cylinder, 7.2-litre diesel engine, the Atego 1726 delivers 256 horsepower and 900Nm of torque, giving operators the power required for demanding cargo operations while maintaining smooth performance under varying road and load conditions.

A major technology highlight is the optional Mercedes-Benz High-Performance Engine Brake, a three-stage braking system capable of delivering up to 300kW of braking power.

 

The system provides enhanced vehicle control, particularly on difficult terrain and during heavy-load operations, while reducing reliance on the service brakes. This can help minimise brake wear and lower maintenance costs over the truck’s operating life.

Beyond its powertrain, the Atego 1726 offers a highly adaptable chassis platform that allows operators to configure the truck for a wide range of commercial applications.

Its chassis-cab design makes it suitable for distribution and FMCG logistics, beverage transportation, refrigerated haulage, municipal and waste management services, construction, oil and gas logistics, general haulage, crane operations and specialised tipper applications.

With a Gross Vehicle Weight of 17.1 tonnes, the Atego 1726 is built to carry substantial payloads while maintaining stability, handling and ride comfort.

 

Its suspension system, featuring proven parabolic springs on both the front and rear axles, further reinforces its suitability for the demanding operating conditions often encountered on Nigerian roads.

The truck also places emphasis on driver comfort, with customers able to choose from Classic, Comfort and Standard cockpit configurations. The options provide businesses with flexibility while giving drivers an ergonomic working environment suited to extended hours behind the wheel.

Speaking on the introduction, Head of Commercial Vehicles at Weststar Associates Limited, Umoh Ekanem, said the new Atego 1726 reflected the company’s commitment to providing Nigerian businesses with reliable and efficient commercial vehicles.

“The introduction of the new Mercedes-Benz Atego 1726 demonstrates our continued commitment to providing Nigerian businesses with commercial vehicles that deliver outstanding reliability, efficiency and performance,” Ekanem said.

“Our customers operate in demanding environments where every delivery and every hour of uptime matters. The Atego has long been recognised as a dependable workhorse, and this latest model builds on that legacy by offering improved technology, greater versatility and enhanced productivity.

“We are confident it will continue to support businesses across multiple sectors while delivering the premium quality and durability that customers expect from Mercedes-Benz.”

The Atego has established a global reputation as one of Mercedes-Benz’s most versatile medium-duty trucks, offering a balance of strength, efficiency and flexibility across diverse transport applications.

The Atego 1726 builds on that reputation by providing fleet operators with a vehicle capable of adapting to changing business needs while helping to improve productivity and control lifetime operating costs.

Weststar has also backed the new truck with after-sales support through its nationwide network, providing access to genuine spare parts, technical expertise and fleet support throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.

The Atego 1726 is now available through Weststar Associates and its authorised commercial vehicle dealership network nationwide.

Customers can contact Weststar’s Commercial Vehicles team or visit an authorised dealership for product specifications, pricing and fleet consultation.