Gas Scania ready for long-distance transport

Scania is set to roll out gas-powered buses and coaches, capable of running on natural gas, biogas, or a mix of the two, offering a sustainable long-distance transport solution. 

Gas-driven buses and coaches provide a viable solution for transport operators, facilitating sustainability without major infrastructure investments – compared with electric options. 

“The new LBG/LNG variant of the Scania Touring is an excellent option for express bus and long-distance operators that want to become more sustainable without a massive investment or negative impact on operations,” Scania Head of Product Management, People Transport Solutions, Carl-Johan Lööf said.

The new variant comes with a 13-litre gas engine that produces 410hp/2000 Nm, with a driving range of more than 1,000 kilometres with the standard tank.

“This product gives you power, torque and range equivalent to that of a diesel powered bus or coach, while actually reducing noise levels and offering lower operating costs. If you add the sustainability benefits of using biogas, it is a truly outstanding solution,” Mr Lööf said. 

Biogas has long been used in compressed form to power city- and suburban buses, but developments in the technology have enabled the gas to be cooled and transformed into energy-dense liquid – LBG/LNG – turning it into a more viable solution for heavy commercial vehicles operating over long distances.

“Biogas can play a key role in decarbonising heavy duty transport, particularly in long-distance applications,” Scania Sustainable Transport Business Manager, Jonas Strömberg said.

“The infrastructure for fuel production and tank stations continues to expand, with huge investment taking place, not least in Europe.”

Biogas is a fossil-free and renewable fuel that offers CO2 emission reductions of up to 90 percent compared to diesel, from a well-to-wheel perspective.

“These solutions are truly circular and I would say that our 13-litre gas powertrain is the most sustainable and viable option on the market for long-distance operators,” said Strömberg.

“It is better for the environment, quiet, smart, and perhaps most important, available here-and-now, allowing long-distance operators to take a huge step towards sustainable transport.”

The new gas powertrain option for the Scania Touring adds to Scania´s current gas portfolio for the long-distance segment, which includes buses and coaches built with external bodybuilder partners, such as the Scania Beulas DD LBG/LNG as well as the Scania Irizar i6S Efficient LBG/LNG.