Scania has launched its first series production range of electric trucks, consisting of full-electric (right) and a plug-in hybrid (left).
Offered in both L- and P-series rigid guises, Scania’s e-trucks are aimed squarely at urban applications. The full-electric trucks are driven by a 230kW motor, which is the equivalent of 310hp (2,200Nm). They are offered with a choice of 165kWh or 300kWh battery packs, depending on the operator’s requirements. One battery is located in the former engine tunnel, while the remaining four (165kWh) or eight (300kWh) batteries are placed along the chassis rails.
Range is dependent on a number of factors, including application, weight and topography, but Scania says in 300kWh format, a distance of up to 250km can be achieved on a single charge. With five batteries, the range is reduced to a maximum of 130km. It takes 55 minutes to charge the five-battery truck from zero to 80% capacity, while the eight-battery vehicle requires a further 45 minutes. In addition, the batteries are continuously charged on the road through regenerative braking energy.
Scania’s plug-in hybrid trucks, combine a regular 9-litre combustion engine (280hp–360hp) with an electric driveline. They utilise a 115kW electric motor, powered by three batteries with a combined capacity of 95kWh. The charging time from zero to 80% is approximately 35 minutes, and additionally they are charged on the move via regenerative braking. They can travel up to 60km in full electric mode, allowing the driver to switch from diesel to electric mode when entering an urban environment.
“Incorporating hybrid trucks into hauliers’ fleets is doubtless the simplest way of gaining experience of operating electric vehicles,” said Scania GB’s UK sales director Vincente Connolly. “Acting as a bridge between the different technologies, hybrids enable operators to gradually expand their fleets to include a greater proportion of electric vehicles. As clean air zones become more prevalent, they will also open up opportunities for operators based around cities looking to travel in for work.”
Scania’s president and CEO Henrik Henriksson, said a succession of further launches in other sectors will follow on an annual basis. “Of particular significance is that in a few years’ time we will also introduce long-distance electric trucks adapted for fast-charging during drivers’ compulsory 45-minute rest periods," he confirmed.
