Scania’s new powertrain platform for buses and coaches is to feature both internal combustion and plug-in hybrid configurations. it is designed to enable significantly reduced fuel consumption and zero-emission zone compliance for long-distance operators.

The new Scania Super combustion powertrain is already being used on the company’s trucks. The plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) variant is aimed at long-distance operations. The manufacturer says the new powertrain platform, with the two distinct alternatives in the ICE and PHEV solutions, allows long-distance operators to find a solution that is ideally fitted to their particular challenges and prerequisites.

8% fuel saving

Scania says the system achieves an 8% fuel saving over the equivalent current powertrain. These cost and carbon savings are enabled by a new 13-litre engine and a new version of the Scania Opticruise gearbox. The powertrain is also prepared for the Euro VII emissions legislation. It also features a new aftertreatment system to further reduce harmful emissions.

The new engine is designed with the aim of lasting for two million kilometres. To help boost uptime, all engine filters are positioned on the ‘cold’, non-turbo side of the engine which allows for better service access and faster filter replacements.

The new powertrain’s auxiliary brakes are intended to enable safer vehicle handling.

The plug-in hybrid electric option (PHEV) runs in four different modes: electric, hybrid, charge sustain and forced charging. The electric range is advertised to run up to 80km on a single charge, while the electric power output is 290kW.

Operators can choose to use Scania Zone geofencing technology to automatically change the mode. For example, if the vehicle is used in zero-emission areas, this can be pre-programmed into Scania Zone, meaning the vehicle can automatically switch to electric power from the still very efficient hybrid mode normally used in other types of traffic.

“With these new powertrains, we will be able to provide long-distance bus and coach operators with incredibly competitive solutions” – Carl-Johan Lööf, Head of Product Management for People Transport Solutions at Scania

Carl-Johan Lööf, Head of Product Management for People Transport Solutions at Scania, said: “Our new combustion and plug-in hybrid powertrains are shining examples of Scania’s twin commitment to sustainability and profitability for bus and coach customers.

“With these new powertrains, we will be able to provide long-distance bus and coach operators with incredibly competitive solutions, regardless of their specific needs or which particular challenges they face, meeting both their current and future business needs.”