In March 1953 a new version of the L-series truck range was introduced with an uprated payload of 4.5 tonnes. Visually there were not many noticeable differences from the L 3500 3.5 tonne model. The new model, called the L 4500, came with larger tyres and a reinforced frame to increase the L 3500's payload by an extra tonne. The rear axle ratio was adjusted to compensate for the higher weight when fully laden.
The L 4500 was less of a new model, rather an updated and further developed version of the highly popular 3.5 tonne and 3.25 tonne variants which had already been in production for a few years at the time of the L 4500's launch.
The engine was identical to that of the smaller trucks in the range - the OM 312 4.6 litre in-line six-cylinder diesel which produced 90 horsepower. In 1956 the OM 312's power output was increased slightly to 100 horsepower.
As with the other models in the range, the 4.5 tonne series was available in many configurations, including two flatbed wheelbases, a tipper variant, an all-wheel drive variant, and an articulated tractor intended to pull a trailer.
The L 4500 became a best-seller in the class of medium duty trucks. 73,033 examples were produced during the eight year production period of 1953 - 1961, however only a year after production began the model was renamed to the L 312.