Sweden’s Scania challenges hydrogen with revolutionary biogas engine technology

EcoNews reports that Scania, a leading name in automotive innovation, is poised to revolutionize the future of transportation with its latest development.

Northern European countries have long been recognized for their pioneering spirit in renewable energy and ecosystem preservation. Yet, their approach to mobility has raised questions: why do they champion electric vehicles (EVs) but overlook hydrogen technology, which Japan is advancing?

The answer has become clear with the recent announcement from a renowned automotive brand, which introduces an engine that challenges traditional fuel concepts and redefines our expectations.   Sweden, for instance, is firmly set against hydrogen technology. The future of mobility there is shaped by their latest developments.

Scania, a major player in the automotive industry, has just launched a new line of biogas engines. This shift represents a commitment to enhanced efficiency and sustainability, designed to address the growing need for eco-friendly transportation solutions. These engines aim to significantly reduce CO2 emissions and operating costs, aligning with the demand for greener transport systems.   Scania’s latest biogas engines are available in 13-liter variants, boasting power outputs of 420 hp and 460 hp.

These engines have a displacement of 12.7 liters, with a bore and stroke of 130 x 160 mm, and a compression ratio of 12.6:1. They utilize Bosch and CEM1 systems for fuel injection, and Scania’s Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) for emission control.   The performance of these biogas engines is notable: the OC13 engine versions deliver up to 311 kW (420 hp) at 1900 rpm and 340 kW (460 hp) at the same rpm, with peak torques of 2100 Nm and 2300 Nm, respectively, at 1000–1300 rpm.   Scania’s biogas engines, unveiled at the IAA fair, represent a significant advancement in eco-friendly transportation. They support biomethane fuels like Bio-LNG and Bio-CNG, achieving up to a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions from well to wheel. This makes them an ideal choice for companies aiming to minimize their carbon footprint.  

These engines highlight Scania’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. Their development, which includes advanced Super-based powertrain components, is designed to meet the diverse operational needs of various industries.   Could Scania's biogas engine be the future? A comparison with hydrogen   While hydrogen is gaining recognition as a future fuel, biogas presents several compelling advantages that position it as a strong contender for future energy needs. Scania's biogas engines offer immediate benefits in terms of reduced CO2 emissions and fuel cost savings. The biomethane fuel supply chain is expanding rapidly, providing a practical solution for decarbonizing transportation.  

Additionally, biogas engines leverage existing technology and infrastructure, which minimizes the need for significant investments in new fuel distribution points or major vehicle redesigns. This makes biogas a more scalable option for many industries compared to synthetic gases. Time will tell if biogas proves to be a viable long-term solution.   The promising features of Scania's biogas engine align with the brand's tradition of innovative gas-powered alternatives.

While Sweden may eventually explore hydrogen, it appears that, for now, the country is focused on more economically and technically feasible solutions, unlike Japan, which is still working to establish its hydrogen infrastructure.