Off-Road Belters

Scania’s toughened XT range takes aim at construction applications.

- Andy Stewart

Scania took the wraps off its new XT range of chassis in August and is targeting it squarely at hauliers operating in arduous conditions. The XT  designation is available across the Swedish manufacturer’s S-, R-, G- and new P-series cabs (see Industry News, page 6), and Scania reckons a total of 19 possible cab combinations are on offer – meaning even the finickiest of operators should be able to find a suitable option.

XT can be spec’d with any of the manufacturer’s current line-up of Euro 6 engines, including V8s. They can also be fitted with Scania’s new Opticruise automated transmission with Clutch on Demand, which is a three-pedal set-up to give fine clutch control back to the driver should he or she require it (for example, when operating on loose surfaces).

XT models sport all-new heavy-duty steel bumpers which extend either 40 or 150 mm from the front of the cab with an improved approach angle, and reinforced ribbed rear-view mirrors to protect against accidental impact. Headlight clusters have also been bolstered with a steel cage to reduce damage from stones and other construction site hazards.

The bumper incorporates a towing pin behind the hinged numberplate, which Scania reckons has been certified to handle 40 tonnes to ensure the truck can be pulled – or pull other stranded vehicles – out of trouble if traction is lost on difficult terrain.

Drivers in mind

Cab entry and exit has received some attention. XT chassis have slip-proof steps, with the bottom step hanging on a rugged rubber hinge to enable it to soak up impacts without damage while the truck is going about its business.