The truck itself, boasting a 560 hp (412 kW) engine, isn't particularly surprising. However, the trailer, measuring 18 meters (59 feet), is set to turn heads because it's adorned with lightweight solar panels. These panels cover 100 square meters (1,076 square feet), which Scania claims is "comparable to a residential home with similar solar capabilities."
These solar panels are touted for their high efficiency and are anticipated to produce around 8,000 kWh of electricity annually in Sweden. This energy is stored in a 200 kWh battery within the trailer and another 100 kWh battery in the truck itself.
Scania's solar-powered truck project
The semi-truck is currently in the testing phase, with the project focusing on assessing how solar power can reduce both operational expenses and emissions. Estimates suggest that the solar array could offer up to 5,000 km (3,107 miles) of zero-emission driving per year in Sweden. In more sun-drenched regions like Spain, this range could potentially increase to 10,000 km (6,214 miles).
In an official comment, Scania's Stas Krupenia noted, “Never before have solar panels been used to generate energy to a truck’s powertrain like we do in this collaboration. This natural energy source can significantly decrease emissions in the transport sector.” He added, “It is great to be at the forefront in the development of the next generation’s trucks.”
Source: Scania
