On September 10, 2025, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) released the 399th batch of the Announcement of Road Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and Products (hereinafter referred to as the “Announcement”). In this batch of the Announcement, the highly anticipated domestic version of the “King of the Highway” – Scania trucks – made its official debut. This marks the latest development of domestic Scania trucks following the commissioning of its factory and the roll-off of the first prototype vehicle.
In this batch of the Announcement, Scania applied for 7 new models in total, including 3 semi-trailer tractors, 3 special operation vehicle chassis, and 1 truck chassis. From the product lineup, we can see that domestic Scania has launched corresponding solutions for traditional advantageous markets of imported trucks, such as fire trucks and high-end road freight vehicles. So, what are the differences between domestic Scania trucks and their global versions? This article will take you through a detailed look.
Let’s start with the semi-trailer tractors, which are of the greatest concern to truck drivers. In this batch of the Announcement, Scania applied for 3 semi-trailer tractor models, namely SAS4180GAN001, SAS4260GCN001, and SAS4261GGN001. Among them, the first two models correspond to the R-series trucks in Scania’s current global product lineup, offering two drive configurations: 4×2 and 6×4, with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 18 tons and 26 tons respectively – these weights correspond to the “180” and “260” segments in the model numbers. The domestic Scania R-series has removed the roof spotlights, but the waist spotlights below the front windshield have been retained. Apart from this, there is no difference in appearance between the domestic version and the global version.
Like their overseas counterparts, these two domestic Scania R-series models are equipped with the Super powertrain, including the new-generation 13-liter engine, transmission, and axle. The engine models include DC 13 211/220/219, with corresponding power outputs of 339kW (460 hp), 369kW (500 hp), and 413kW (560 hp). In terms of horsepower, these three engines correspond to Scania’s global DC 13 175/174/173 engines, delivering torques of 2,500 N·m, 2,650 N·m, and 2,800 N·m respectively.
The DC 13 17X series is one of the most advanced inline-six truck engines in Scania and even globally. It adopts an integrated cylinder head and double overhead camshaft structure, built on the Traton Group’s CBE1 universal engine platform, and features low fuel consumption and high torque. Although their model names have been changed for the domestic market, it is believed that their basic performance remains consistent. In addition to the engine, the new-generation OptiCruse transmission and R756 high-efficiency axle are also likely to be standard on these two domestic R-series models. The former eliminates reverse gears and uses a planetary gear mechanism to achieve reverse functionality, offering advantages such as low noise, high transmission efficiency, and a compact housing. The latter further optimizes transmission efficiency and maintenance intervals, and can provide ultra-small speed ratios to meet the needs of efficient transportation.
From the optional configuration photos released in the Announcement, we can see that these two domestic Scania R-series models support the selection of various side decals. Both Scania’s classic Griffin emblem and the iconic Super emblem of the new-era Scania can further enhance the vehicle’s recognition. The cab side windows also come in two configurations: clear windows and blind windows, to meet different needs.
Details such as side skirts, workbench pedals, air horns, and Super logos are all optional on the domestic Scania R-series.
From the images, we can also see that one of the distinctive configurations of Scania Super models – the FOU (Fuel Optimization Unit) – is not missing from the domestic R-series. It includes components such as an additional fuel filter and a small fuel tank, which can pressurize the interior of the main fuel tank to help pump out fuel from the bottom, thereby improving fuel utilization and preventing fuel deterioration due to long-term storage at the tank bottom. The additional filter provides secondary filtration of fuel to ensure clean fuel supply, which helps enhance power and extend engine life.
In addition to the two “authentic” domestic Scania R-series models, Scania also brought another surprise: a new model with a revised front face and modified lines on the cab side panels. Although its framework still bears the Scania hallmark, both the new front grille and new headlights bring a fresh look. In particular, the “Next Era” logo and the Chinese Scania emblem are quite striking.
In terms of configuration, this model may be an exclusive version tailored for the Chinese market – clues can be found in details such as the cab side lines and chassis accessory layout. A sticker with the “National VI” (China’s National Emission Standard VI) logo is also designed on the lower part of the door, which is quite distinctive. According to the application information, this special model is equipped with engines of models TD13 02 and TD13 01, with corresponding power outputs of 339kW (460 hp) and 369kW (500 hp). Their displacement and horsepower correspond to the domestic Scania DC 13 221/220, but the model names have changed. Why? A possible reason is that although the hardware of these two engines is the same, their software tuning has been adjusted, hence the name change. What does the “T” in the name stand for? It may refer to Traton. After all, Scania is a member of the Traton Group, and the Scania Rugao Factory will be integrated into the Traton Group’s global production network. Therefore, the TD 13 engine may be used not only in Scania trucks but also in other truck brands under the Traton Group. MAN and Navistar will definitely not use it, so it may be for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
Both the front and rear axles are painted with the “Next Era” logo, emphasizing its “new era” identity once again.
The exclusive model adopts an LED headlight design, which indeed looks bright and expressive.
In addition to the domestic version, Scania Sweden is also testing this new front face, which may be launched on global models in the future.
As for various optional configurations, we can also gain some insights. This domestic exclusive model offers the option of a dual-chamber fuel tank, adapting to the usage needs in high-cold regions of northern China. The FOU (Fuel Optimization Unit) of the Super series has been removed, and there are slight differences in the exhaust aftertreatment system and side skirt design compared with the domestic Super series R-model. The author speculates that this exclusive model may be positioned slightly lower, forming a “high-low matching” product portfolio with the domestic Super series R-model.
This domestic exclusive model supports the option of a surround-view system (i.e., a 360-degree camera system), which is a first for Scania globally.
In addition to the three tractors, Scania also applied for the SAS1260GCN001 truck chassis in this batch of the Announcement – this is the chassis version of the domestic Super series R-series model. It belongs to Scania’s high-end chassis products, adopting a 6×4 drive configuration with a GVW of 26 tons and an engine horsepower of 460 hp (DC 13 221), and can be used in high-value fields such as hazardous chemical transportation.
At the same time, Scania also applied for three special operation vehicle chassis products in this batch of the Announcement, which belong to Scania’s P-series models. From the paint finish, it can be seen that these models are specifically designed for the fire-fighting market, with drive configurations of 4×2, 6×4, and 8×4 respectively, covering different tonnages and vehicle lengths. They can be modified into urban main battle fire trucks, water tank fire trucks, aerial ladder trucks, and other fire-fighting vehicles. With localized production, Scania can better meet the needs of domestic fire truck body manufacturers and work together to provide better products for the fire-fighting industry – and this is precisely a traditional advantageous field for imported truck brands.
From the models applied for in this batch of the Announcement, we can see that Scania has launched a complete and sincere solution tailored to the needs of the Chinese market. Whether it is the exclusive new model or the fire-fighting chassis, we can also see that Scania does not intend to use localized production to engage in price wars. Instead, it aims to maintain the same excellent quality as its global products and provide more competitive solutions for local customers. In the future, the Scania Rugao Factory will not only meet domestic demand but also serve as an important core of Scania in the Asia-Pacific region, further enhancing Scania’s competitiveness in the Asia-Pacific market. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Sweden, and also the 60th anniversary of Scania – the Swedish truck brand – entering the Chinese market. At this pivotal moment connecting the past and the future, we sincerely wish Scania a brighter future on its journey in China.
原创文章，作者：ctinsa，如若转载，请注明出处：https://www.ctinsa.com/ccnes/7035
