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New Scania leads vehicle launches for 2004
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Thinking of buying a new truck? Here's our guide to what's just around the corner for the next 12 months or so.
THE ARRIVAL OF the new Scania tractor unit this spring looks set to kick off a flurry of new truck and van launches over the next couple of years as the manufacturers unveil engine and cab updates ahead of the Euro-4 emissions legislation — mandatory on new vehicle types from October 2005.
Scania will take the wraps off its new unit in the next couple of months, with the major changes expected to include a wholesalerevision of the cab interior as well as revised engines and a new transmission. CM understands that the top bunk will return to the rear cab wall in Topline versions, while the dash and fascia will get an overhaul aimed at improving driver living space and comfort. From the outside, we understand the new truck will receive a decent makeover with new panels and possibly a raised cab to give a flat floor.
Scania has, like MAN, (CM 12 February) decided against introducing selective catalytic reduction (SCR) on its engines for Euro-4. preferring instead the cheaper exhaust gas recirculation on its volume seller the 12-litre engine, in order to keep emissions down. We expect to see this new technology make its Scania debut, alongside the existing engines in the new truck, along with an allnew semi-automated transmission to replace the Opticruise gearbox.
While Scania will steal all the headlines in the second quarter of the year, the other truck builders will certainly come out fighting, with new models ahead of the Hanover show this September.
For instance, Mercedes will unveil new versions of its Atego and Axor range. The German truck maker is playing its cards close to its chest, but CM understands the revised Axor will have interior improvements derived from the latest Actros, further emphasising Mere's commitment to raising driver comfort in its fleet tractor.
Furthermore, the increasing use of ever-higher fuel injection pressures looks likely to drive the maximum power rating for the Axorss 12-litre straight-six machine beyond its current 430hp limit, possibly to a top rating of 470hp. At the light end, Atego will be slimmed down significantly, as well as receiving an interior update.
MAN launched its new 10.5-litre D20 engine two weeks ago, and will arrive in Hanover this September with the bigger 12.8-litre version capable of offering power in excess of 530hp. The company had been expected to launch its replacement for the L and M2000 at Hanover in September, but a company decision to delay the project for six months means this vehicle will now be launched in spring 2005.
It's been a very busy period for Iveco over the past four years with new versions of Daily, Cargo and Stralis hitting the streets. This leaves j ust the EuroTrakker,which looks set for launch in the second half of the year. Set to use the same cab as the Stralis,the EuroTrakker will also benefit from weight reduction in order to make it more attractive to the UK buyer.
Renault and Volvo have been working on a new engine line-up, as has Daf, although we understand that these new power units, which are all set to be equipped with SCR emissions reducing technology, will not be unveiled until early in 2005.