Europe’s Only Stud Farm Running Its Own Electric Truck

Menhammar is much more than its stud farm, home to more than 200 horses. The estate also includes forestry, farming and wildlife management across more than 750 hectares overlooking Lake Mälaren. Here, sustainability is not a policy on paper – it is built into everyday operations.

“We don’t just talk about sustainable development – we’re part of it,” says Ulf Segerström, Operations Manager at Menhammar Farm.

“Our fields are cultivated without pesticides, so it only makes sense that our machinery, transport and the farm’s entire energy system should also be fossil-free. It’s not just logical – it’s essential.”

For many years the farm has operated its own hooklift truck. When it came time to replace the previous vehicle, the decision was made to switch to electric The choice was the Mercedes-Benz eActros.

“Mercedes-Benz offers several features that really suited our operation. The e-axle means there’s no conventional propshaft, giving better ground clearance, and the electric PTO is ideal for running the hooklift system.”

The truck is used every day for manure handling, transporting a 10.000 litre water tank and waste management. Much of its work takes place in confined areas between farm buildings, woodland and trees.

“We use it to water roads and training tracks, and our high-capacity pumps can fill the tank with lake water in no time. The truck is also available as a resource for the local fire and rescue service.”

“We operate our own waste-sorting system and transport pre-sorted containers directly to recycling facilities.”

“With an electric truck everything is simple, quiet and smooth – and you don’t even have to charge it every day,” says Roland Davidsson, one of the eActros drivers.

The truck is charged overnight and ready for work the following morning. No special routines and no complicated logistics. For operators accustomed to filling a diesel truck once a week, the practical difference is minimal.

Davidsson also points to the improved working environment. There is no diesel smell in the cab, no exhaust fumes around the horses, and no hot engine running while loading outside the stables.

“For those of us who spend the entire working day in and around the vehicle, it’s a noticeable improvement.”

He also admits that the mirrorcam system took some getting used to.

“At first it felt unfamiliar, but now I wouldn’t want to go back. You no longer have to worry about knocking mirrors off on branches, and you only have one screen on each side to look at instead of several different mirrors.”

At Menhammar, most driving consists of short trips around the estate – a kind of operation where electric trucks excel. A diesel engine rarely reaches optimal operating temperature under these conditions, while an electric truck is unaffected. Another advantage is instant cab heating, even on cold winter mornings.

“It’s the perfect truck for us in every respect – not only from an environmental perspective, but also economically,” says Ulf Segerström.

“Service requirements are minimal, road tax is low and energy costs are barely noticeable. It’s a win-win across the board.”