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Whenever the Scania name is mentioned, thoughts turn to the flagship 770 S and rightly so - it is a feat of engineering that deserves to be admired. However, while Scania is famed for its legendary V8 engines there is more to the Swedish company than this one power unit. In reality, the iconic V8 represents only a small percentage of Scania’s powerplant sales in all markets with some exceptions one being Ireland. Nevertheless, as with all manufacturers, the volume market sits within the mid 400 to mid 500 hp power band. Now to service this major segment, and the majority of its customers, Scania has launched a new engine, the DC13, as part of what is called “the most advanced powertrain in heavy transport today” and “the biggest launch since 2016”. The company has also assigned the old ‘Super’ nameplate that adorned models of the early 1970s and ‘80s to this latest platform. With the new Super platform, Scania is offering power ratings from 410 to 560 hp and fuel savings of 8%. The company aims to consolidate its position as a leader in vehicle and powertrain technology through to 2030, when
FLEETTRANSPORT | APR - MAY 22
10 | COVER
expected demand for diesel-fuelled internal combustion engines will decline. With the all-new DOHC DC13 engine Scania promises significant savings of 5% for operators engaged in long-haul work. However, the new updates are not solely related to the engine, as Scania has achieved a 3% saving with innovations to chassis, axles, and transmissions which in total realise savings of 8% over the previous model. For some time now all Scania engines can operate on Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and this continues with the new engine. In addition, the new DC13 six-cylinder double overhead camshaft (DOHC) unit will also be available in Natural gas, Biogas and two Biodiesel versions. A major new transmission offering sees two new gearboxes; the G33 and the lighter G25. Both transmissions are automated, and a manual version will no longer be available though there will be the option of a drop-down clutch pedal. With the G25, Scania has all but completely removed the synchromesh thereby achieving significant weight savings. Included in the list of innovations is Scania’s new Compression Release Brake (CRB), which it believes will all but eliminate the need for Retarders except for the heaviest loads on the hilliest topography. Following up the rear is a new lightweight axle option that will find favour with many operators even though it is only rated for 45 tonnes. Not everyone runs at max weight all the time, and currently the 46 tonne GVW
Scania’s Super(Trooper) New D13 Engine
limit in Ireland is one of the highest in Europe outside of Scandinavia and the Netherlands. More importantly, Scania is offering a total of 9 final drive ratios which extend from 4.11:1 to a very high 1.91:1 - which are specifically targeting customers who move high volume lightweight consignments, one example would be flower transport. Scania has now joined a number of other OEMs by offering a digital mirror camera system. While these systems are relatively new, one can expect them to be standard fitment going forward. The Scania model differs from other systems in that the cameras are mounted on the
