Scania’s recently-launched hybrid distribution truck has been awarded Green Truck Future Innovation 2016, by German trade magazine Verkehrsrundschau.

The hybrid solution allows an 18-tonne distribution truck to operate solely on electric power for up to 1.2 miles. The electric motor is combined with Scania’s 9-litre Euro 6 engine, which can be operated on 100 percent biodiesel, such as FAME or HVO. With this latter fuel, CO2 can be reduced by as much as 92 percent.

Electric operations are primarily intended for situations such as city distribution at night in noise sensitive areas or driving through warehouses and underground car parks where exhaust fumes must be avoided. In the electric mode, the sound level is below 72 db.

This modular powertrain has an electric motor that delivers 174 bhp and 1,050 nm of torque. It sits between the engine and a special version of Scania’s automatic transmission. Usable battery capacity is up to 1.2 kWh, a moderate energy usage based on a balance between the battery’s lifetime and driving range.

Due to the additional batteries and electrics, there is a weight penalty of almost 800kg and the hybrid demands an extra £37,000 on the list price. Scania is expected to release the hybrid in the UK later this year.

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