Capital Equipment News August 2019

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Scania has improved the direct visibility in the new cab, making the driver feel in control.

while reducing road spray and internal wind noise. For a final, but optional aerodynamic touch, side and roof air deflectors may also be attached to the cab. The new generation trucks come with improved roof and side air deflectors, as well as an improved cab front design that reduces air drag.

Extra Tough Despite the tough nature of the construction sector, the XT range,

especially the G460 XT model, has been well-received in the construction segment. To give an idea, the model has done well in Gauteng, while it has accounted to close to 15% of the sales of the NTG thus far in the Cape Town region. “The Scania XT is offered for the entire range of cab and engine specifications, from the smallest P-series cab to the spacious S-series cab. Customers can select engines with power outputs ranging from 280 to 730 hp,” explains Steenkamp. It comes with a series of new features and improvements. For instance, the lowered dashboard, improved driver position and maximised windows, making visibility even better. Another improvement is the new engine range, which combined with the aerodynamic design, delivers a decrease in fuel consumption. There is a big emphasis on safety on the new XT range with a host of features that speak directly to this important parameter. For example, by moving the driver’s position forward and sideways, lowering the instrument panel and redesigning the A-pillars, Scania has improved the direct visibility in the new cab, making the driver feel in control. Meanwhile, the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) reduces the risk of skidding and tipping over, as well as the effects of understeering and oversteering. Said to be the first in the industry, the side curtain airbag will protect the driver in case of a roll-over accident. Together with the steering wheel airbag, the overall driver safety is on point. b

One of the new vehicles recently delivered in Namibia.

A fleet of Scania new generation trucks recently delivered to a customer.

the drivers to find the perfect driving position,” says Peter Webster, GM Mozambique. The driving position in a Scania cab is designed to suit different sizes of drivers. A wide range of adjustments gives maximum scope for drivers to find exactly the right position for a comfortable, relaxed posture. With a firm grip on the wheel, every principal control is within fingertip reach. The steering column position is also adjustable. Visibility around the vehicle requires no more than small movements of the head if not a mere flick of the eyes. The distinctive curved Scania dashboard

is available in two lengths, according to the amount of equipment you want in your truck. Everything fits perfectly, and is placed with extreme care. Wind-tunnel testing is used to refine every surface, every curve and every piece of exterior equipment for optimal aerodynamic performance. The overall shape of the cab is also designed this way. A gradually tapered front end gives the cab a wedge-shaped profile that significantly reduces drag. Another key factor in airflow optimisation is the cab’s ability to cope with cross- winds. The large radius curves around the entirety of the cab help to achieve this

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