Technology: the strategic enabler in transport industry

We realise the key role essayed by drivers in increasing operational efficiencies. A skilled driver can increase the operational efficiency by as much as 11 per cent.

  Propelled by continuous research and development into new technology and renewable fuels globally, we’re striving to transform our vision into a reality. In fact, technology is increasingly becoming a key strategic enabler in the transportation industry. The industry is now more open to embracing new technologies. For instance, Fleet Management Services are growing in popularity in India,” says Anders Grundstromer, Managing Director, Scania India and Senior Vice President Scania Group.

In the mining segment, P410, which is Scania’s flagship mining product, is equipped with Scania Opticruise; a fully automated gear changing system, Idle Shutdown; an optional feature that further strengthens the Total Operating Economy (TOE) by lowering fuel consumption, Scania FMS; fleet management services, which helps in real time monitoring and analysing vehicle operation.

Scania P 410 8×4 rock body tipper is equipped with 20 cu.m. SSAB rock body. Developed by SSAB, one of the world’s leading producers of high strength steel, the product is significantly lower in weight than current offerings in the market, thereby helping customers realise increased load carrying capacity, leading to significantly higher productivity.

Positive impacts
A typical mining site works on the principle of efficiency and time management. Grundstromer speaks in detail about the positive impacts of Scania Opticruise, Idle Shutdown and Scania FMS:
• Scania Opticruise: Helps in achieving best fuel efficiency and ease of driving even in a most demanding mining terrains
• Idle Shutdown: a feature that shuts down engine, while the vehicle is in idling mode. Engine shut down can be triggered with pre-set timing, this option helps in lowering fuel consumption
• Scania FMS: Helps in monitoring vehicle operation, the data collected also gives the scope of improving driver skills.

Grundstromer adds, “We realise the key role essayed by drivers in increasing operational efficiencies. A skilled driver can increase the operational efficiency by as much as 11 per cent. At Scania, we don’t just sell vehicles to our customers; we provide them with an end-to-end solution. We also offer unmatched aftermarket services that further contribute towards strengthening the Total Operating Economy (TOE) of the vehicle.”

Incorporating technology
Talking about incorporating Scania Opticruise, Idle Shutdown and Scania FMS, Grundstromer says, “Scania Opticruise, Idle Shutdown and Scania FMS are available for customers to opt for. Our solutions can be customised according to the customer requirement; hence the customer is free to choose on what they want.” 

Latest development
Scania offers sustainable transport solutions globally, driving the push towards alternative fuel and has vehicles that run on bio-fuels such as bio-diesel, bio-ethanol and bio-gas.

“We launched India’s first ethanol run Green Bus in Nagpur and are planning to launch more such buses in the country in the coming months,” says Grundstromer.

From an engineering perspective, all Scania engines are based on a modular design, which means that vital common components are deployed in most engine models. “From an availability point of view there are two main advantages: service, maintenance and repairs can be carried out faster, easier and with more accuracy; and the workshop has fewer parts that need to be kept in stock. The net result is enhanced service and increased uptime,” concludes Grundstromer.