Scania Super 13-Litre Powertrain Sets New Efficiency Benchmark

On January 22, Scania unveiled its new Super 13-litre powertrain for coaches, delivering up to 8% fuel savings compared to its previous configuration. The latest development reflects Scania’s continued focus on lowering operating costs and emissions for long-distance passenger transport operators.
The Scania Super 13-litre powertrain has been comprehensively upgraded across the engine, exhaust aftertreatment, gearbox, rear axle, and control software. Rather than relying on a single improvement, the fuel efficiency gains result from how these components interact through intelligent system integration and software optimisation.
Integrated drivetrain upgrades enhance efficiency

• A key contributor is the new transmission, which alone delivers around 1% fuel savings.

• Designed to handle higher torque while weighing less, it also enables faster gear shifts.

• These quicker shifts help keep the engine operating within its most efficient RPM range, reducing unnecessary fuel consumption during real-world driving conditions.

• Additional mechanical refinements include a new dry sump system and improved bearings.

• These changes lower internal energy losses, directly contributing to reduced fuel usage.

• Together, the drivetrain enhancements ensure smoother power delivery and more consistent efficiency across varying load and road conditions.

Rear axle optimisation and fuel management improvements

• The updated rear axle allows the engine to run at lower speeds while maintaining the same vehicle speed.

• This reduction in engine RPM further cuts fuel consumption, particularly during steady cruising on highways, which is typical for coach applications.

• The system also introduces a small secondary fuel unit connected to the main fuel tank.

• Acting as a buffer, it increases usable fuel volume and supports stable engine performance, especially when driving on slopes or uneven terrain where fuel supply consistency is critical.

Fuel optimisation unit supports reliability and service intervals

• The fuel optimisation unit (FOU) functions as a catch tank, preventing air from entering the high-pressure fuel system.

• This design improves cold start performance and contributes to longer service intervals, reducing downtime for operators.

• Durability has been a core focus, with the powertrain engineered to support annual vehicle usage of up to 300,000 km.

Following extensive validation through EU VECTO simulations and real-world driving tests, the Scania Super 13-litre powertrain is confirmed to be compatible with Euro 7 requirements and capable of operating on biofuels, aligning with evolving regulatory and sustainability expectations in the coach segment.