Scania tests fuel savings with solar-panel trailers
Scania is developing a solar-panel clad trailer in partnership to power a plug-in hybrid truck. Initial tests indicate potential fuel savings of 5–10 percent in Sweden.
Scania Group is exploring the potential of trailers fitted with solar panels to achieve fuel savings for plug-in hybrid trucks. In a press release on October 8, 2020, the company stated that initial simulations in Sweden predict fuel savings of 5–10 percent, with potential for double that in sunnier regions like southern Spain.
Solar cells have previously been used on vehicles such as boats and caravans, typically to power auxiliary equipment like refrigerators. Scania's project aims to utilize solar energy directly to supplement the truck's powertrain.
The research project involves an 18-meter-long trailer equipped with a total of 140 square meters of solar panels on its sides and roof. Swedish transport company Ernst Express, which has previously collaborated with Scania on electric road trials, will operate the vehicle in daily transport assignments. The solar panels are expected to generate approximately 14,000 kWh annually in Sweden.
The initiative also examines the possibility of feeding surplus electricity back into the grid when the truck's batteries are fully charged and the vehicle is parked, such as over weekends. The project is funded by the Swedish innovation agency Vinnova and includes Scania, Ernst Express, solar panel manufacturer Midsummer, Uppsala University, and energy company Dalakraft.