Scania Australia has started the delivery of the first of 55 new Scania 440 hp SCR prime movers to Linfox, which will be split between the company’s Victorian and New South Wales operations.
The deal is the biggest Scania has concluded with the logistics leader for many years.
“We are very pleased to be delivering such a significant order of fuel-efficient and safe vehicles to Linfox for use with some of their very high profile clients,” says Roger McCarthy, Scania Australia’s Managing Director.
“We signed the order late last year, and the factory was able to paint the trucks in the iconic Linfox red and yellow as part of the production process.
“The vehicles will be maintained by Scania workshops on a scheduled servicing and repair programme that offers Linfox a known cost-per-km for the duration of the contract. This is an example of how the Scania Total Transport Solution concept works to provide efficient whole-of-life running costs for Linfox.”
Scania was successful in winning the Linfox business for a variety of reasons, according to Scania National Fleet Sales Manager, Steven Alberse.
“Good fuel economy and low cab entry played key roles, plus the cab-over configuration for easy access to tight loading docks,” he says.
In keeping with the Scania philosophy of providing a Total Transport Solution, Scania has deployed its Master Driver Trainers to train the Linfox driver trainers regarding the full range of Scania driver support functions inside the cabs.
“The vehicles are equipped with the new Scania Fully Automated Opticruise gear-changing system, as well as the Scania Retarder, and Scania Driver Support, all of which enable the driver to reduce consumption and emissions, while at the same time maintaining safe and efficient work practices.”
Linfox President Fleet and Procurement Ray Gamble says, “Linfox is pleased to add Scania’s new prime movers to our growing fleet of more than 5,000 vehicles.”
“The Euro5 vehicles adhere to Linfox’s on-going commitment to the safety of our drivers and the sustainability and reliability of our operations,” he says.
The Scania P 440 SCR engine is the most powerful six-cylinder engine available under the P-series cab, and offers 440 hp (324 kW) and 2,300 Nm of torque between 1,000 and 1,300 rpm.
The 6×4 configuration prime movers use the fully automated Scania Opticruise, which makes them easy to drive and reduces driver fatigue. The vehicles are fitted with ABS and traction control and are compatible with trailer Electronic Braking Systems, enhancing safety and control.
The all-steel cabs are impact-tested to ensure they exceed European and Swedish safety standards in order to be able to offer the best possible occupant protection.