From the outside, it’s hard to tell this isn’t a standard diesel-powered Scania R460. Only the extended wheelbase visible in the side profile hints at something different beneath the surface.
The CNG tanks are cleverly integrated. Four smaller tanks are hidden behind the side skirts, while two larger ones are mounted at the rear of the cab, partially concealed by the side fairings.
SUBSCRIBE to the PowerTorque newsletter
These cab-mounted tanks, like the others, are designed and installed by Scania and are positioned exclusively on the lower section of the cab’s rear wall. Scania currently has no plans to extend the truck’s range by adding an extra tank.
What’s hidden from view is the updated driveline. It includes a re-engineered 12.7-litre spark-ignition engine built specifically for methane, delivering 460hp — a significant step up from the previous 410hp and one likely to appeal to drivers.
For the first time, Scania has paired this gas engine with key elements of its Super diesel driveline. This includes the latest G25 Opticruise 12-speed gearbox and a new rear axle. Scania claims this pairing boosts fuel efficiency by 5 per cent, enhances performance, and retains the same service intervals.
ON THE ROAD
The new R460 gas truck is equipped with Scania’s latest Smart Dash digital dashboard. Launched earlier this year to meet the EU General Safety Regulations, it features a configurable Driver Display directly in front of the driver, as well as a touchscreen Centre Information Display located to the left.
The Driver Display can be tailored to individual preferences and offers clear, easy-to-read information. On the other hand, the Centre Information Display, which is compatible with Apple CarPlay, simplifies operations by removing the need for intricate menu navigation for straightforward tasks.
While touchscreen interfaces are not to everyone’s liking, Scania has kept physical buttons for essential functions, ensuring ease of use is not sacrificed.
That said, Scania acknowledges that the Smart Dash isn’t without teething issues. For instance, as I made my way onto the motorway, the system erroneously displayed a 70mph (113km/h) speed limit sign. This is the maximum speed for cars on the UK motorway network, while trucks are limited to 90km/h.
Lately, it seems like almost every vehicle I drive is battery-powered, but the Scania R460 CNG surprises with a similarly quiet experience, particularly at a steady 90km/h. It’s an almost unnerving quiet, especially when you’d expect the typical sounds of a combustion engine straining against an incline.
However, there’s no noticeable change in pitch or effort — just smooth, silent acceleration. A quick check of the dashboard reassures me the truck is maintaining its speed effortlessly.
This seamless performance persists throughout the journey. There are no inclines steep enough to push the truck’s limits. Only when I accidentally engage adaptive cruise control and get caught behind slower traffic does the vehicle lose any speed.
On the downhill stretches, the truck’s performance remains consistent. Setting the overrun speed to 95km/h, it holds that speed perfectly without any deviation.
Spark-ignition engines, unlike diesel ones, rely on retarders for braking rather than engine brakes. In this case, the retarder operates smoothly and efficiently, providing strong, controlled deceleration.
.JPG)
.jpg)
.png){kind=small}
.png){kind=small}
