Electric powered trucks using a pantograph to connect the truck to overhead power lines are being trialled by Scania in Sweden. The power is conducted to the truck in a similar way to that used by trains and trams. The collaboration between Scania and global power giants Siemens could see electrically powering trucks on routes in some industrial areas.
Trials of the trucks on Siemens' two kilometre test track in Germany are set to begin soon, before the truck returns to Scania HQ in Sodertalje, Sweden, where an overhead electric power system is being developed at the company's research centre.
“Systems with overhead lines are especially suitable in regular transport routes from point to point, such as between steel mills and ports and between mines and processing plants,” said Scania’s Project Manager Christer Thorén.
Further work is to be carried out on using a hybrid drive line with the new technology. The system is planned to use diesel engine power on normal running but revert to all electric power when overhead lines are available.
The pantograph has been designed to be as wide as the truck itself, ensuring full electrical contact through curves in the road. Apart from the potential for substantial reductions in running costs, the system will also enable transport operators in some sectors to gain major carbon emission reductions.