Scania introduces LNG/biogas variant of touring coach

Scania has expanded its portfolio by introducing a liquefied biogas (LBG)/liquefied natural gas (LNG) variant of the Scania Touring coach, the company announced on 5 June.

The coach can run on both natural gas and biogas, or a mix of the two, providing a circular and economically viable solution for sustainable long-distance transport, Scania said. The new variant features a 13-litre gas engine that delivers 410 hp (302 kW) and 2000 Nm of torque, with an efficiency that allows users to lower their fuel costs. With the standard tank option, it also offers a driving range of over 1,000 km.

Biogas has long been used in compressed form to power city and suburban buses. In recent years, technological advancements have enabled the gas to be cooled down and transformed into energy-dense liquid form – LBG/LNG – making it a more viable solution for heavy commercial vehicles operating long-distance routes.

“Biogas can play a key role in decarbonising heavy-duty transport, particularly in long-distance applications. The infrastructure for fuel production and tank stations continues to expand, with significant investment taking place, especially in Europe,” said Jonas Stromberg, a manager at Scania.

Biogas is a fossil-free and renewable fuel that offers CO2 emission reductions of up to 90% compared to diesel from a well-to-wheel perspective. It also provides other benefits for sustainable development.

The new gas powertrain option for the Scania Touring adds to Scania’s current gas portfolio for the long-distance segment, which includes buses and coaches built with external bodybuilder partners, such as the Scania Beulas DD LBG/LNG and the Scania Irizar i6S Efficient LBG/LNG, which was presented at Busworld last year.