Scania has begun the global sales rollout of its new under-cab battery module, which is designed to enable fleet operators to optimize battery capacity for a wide range of transport needs.

The positioning of the battery module under the cab of the Scania electric truck frees up more space for bodywork and addresses a key challenge for transport operators: balancing range and payload.

The increase in gross train weight allowance introduced by the European Union in 2025 means Scania can offer a 400 kWh usable capacity option with a typical range of 360 km without reducing payload, up to the legal maximum.

A common misconception about electric trucks is that battery capacity must always be sized for maximum range. However, as Scania explains, for trucks assigned to shorter routes, larger batteries may be unnecessary, and can affect payload capacity.

Charging strategy is often the more important factor. Scania’s Megawatt Charging System supports operators in planning charging stops during legally required driver rest breaks. Combining en route charging with depot charging can help to reduce operating and capital expenditure.

“The new under-cab battery module optimizes the placement of the truck batteries to transporters’ advantage,” says Tobias Ejderhamn, Global Manager, Transformation & New Business, Scania. “With the right battery setup, MCS and a charging strategy using Scania’s charging company Erinion or Scania Charging Access on the road, our customers can address the range-versus-payload question.”

Source: Scania