Scania updates powertrain technology for its urban electric trucks

Scania has updated the electric motors and batteries fitted to its urban electric trucks, providing a wider choice of of power outputs and enhanced longevity.

The new powertrain combines the electric motor and gearbox into a single drive unit. Five power outputs are offered: 270, 300, 330, 360 and 400kW.

All Scania electric trucks are now fitted with new battery packs, assembled at Scania's new battery plant. The units are created using cells from Northvolt.

Scania says the new batteries are tested to last up to 1.5 million kilometres without degradation and should last the lifetime of the truck.

One of the main strengths of the new battery design is that it can be repeatedly charged to 100% without impacting the lifespan of the pack.

The packs also have a straight charging curve, which means the the charging speed does not reduce when the state of charge exceeds 80%.

Fredrik Allard, senior vice president and head of E-Mobility at Scania, said: “We believe that charging will be less problematic when people learn more about how batteries work. When we analyse operational patterns, it’s evident that the vast majority have the range they need.

“The fact that some customers remain cautious and limit themselves to ordering a couple of trucks for their fleets is fully understandable since they want to gain experience first. But with our growing portfolio and an expanding infrastructure, Scania’s 2030 target of 50% of all trucks sold in Europe will be battery electric is within reach.”

The new powertains are available on Scania's L, P and G Series urban trucks.