Scania has announced two new BEV trucks that reflect its forward-looking production strategy.
Both vehicles are designed to encourage customers make the switch from ICE powered trucks covering their regional operations. The new trucks come with an improved driveline, batteries and charging capability, available in R and S sleeper cabs and as a 4x2 tractor or as 6x2 or 6x4 rigid.
These new battery electric trucks are based on classic Scania principles of modu¬larity, sustainability and a total operating economy. The truck maker claims both have the potential to match or exceed what can be expected from conventional combustion engine trucks.
The trucks’ batteries have been improved, with 624 kWh packs installed, each assembled in-house at Scania. The heating and cooling system has been reworked to maintain the powertrain’s and battery pack’s optimum operating temperature but also to allow drivers greater control of the temperature in the cabin.
The vehicle’s range is dependent on several factors, including weight, configuration and topography but a 4x2 tractor with six batteries is claimed to be able to do up to 290 miles between charges, travelling at an average speed of 50mph. The charging capability has been increased up to 375 kW, which means that after an hour of charging it can add up to 180 miles of range.
The continuous power output level for the Scania 45 R and S is 410 kW, approximately 560hp. While the new triple electric machine powertrain provides enough electro-mechanical power take-off to support power hungry applications. Which means customers will be able to use these new battery electric vehicles for temperature controlled and bulk transportation.
The 4x2 tractor’s axle distance has been increased to 4,150mm (13.6ft) when specified with six batteries, allowing it to benefit from the Increased Vehicle Dimension regulation in Europe. Gross train weight for the tractor unit is up to 64 tons.
In terms of the sales experience, Scania says it will also support customers by being their single point of contact, to guarantee the approach and implementation of any solution suits their business and operations. Customers will be supported with operational factors and services too. These include charging, finance, insurance and maintenance.
Christian Levin, CEO of Scania, said: “This introduction represents a major milestone for us and for our partners. We are now increasing our range and offering new opportunities to cater for a wider selection of customers and the whole transport ecosystem. These trucks are part of the solution that the transport industry is asking for.” Scania’s new fully electric trucks are available for order now, with production commencing in Q4 2023.
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
