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COVER STORY Want something that can work all day without getting tired and maximises speed and turnaround times? Then the Scania R730, Europe's second most powerful mainstream production truck, could be for you
Until recently, the Scania R73O was the most powerful truck in road transport. It usurped the Volvo FH 16.700 (CM 15 October 2009) before the FH 16.750 was unveiled earlier this year.
For the record, the true horsepower ratings stand as such: Volvo offers 739hp (55IkW) and Scania 720hp (537k W). While the Swedish truck manufacturers are busy comparing manhoods, there remains a serious question: who in their right mind would specify a tractor unit with so many horses at its disposal?
In an age of austerity, there are more mundane issues to consider, such as cost and funding, fuel economy and poor payload returns restricting any ad hoc work. However, the pros are clear: over many a travelled mile, the R730 gets you there faster than, say, a 430hp truck by maintaining a consistent high speed over the mountains. If it dips below top speed, it'll be down to another vehicle getting in the way. Couple that to prestige and high residual values, and there is a decent case for the R730.
The case for mainland European operators ordering an R730 to crisscross the Continent from east to west and back again, or hauling 60 tonnes through the frozen Scandinavian wilderness, is straightforward.
Making the case for die Brits is a little tougher. Trunking from Scotland to Cornwall and back again, or moving Special Types' heavy loads is the exception rather than the rule, but it's in these niche markets the R730 is likely to find a home.
Specification is impressive: the R730 6x2 tractor comes with a 16.35-litre V8 turbocharged intercooled engine with Scania XPI (extra-high pressure injection). It uses selective catalytic reduction to meet Euro-5 emission levels. It delivers a true horsepower rating of 720hp at l,900rpm.
with approximately 650hp kicking in from just below 1300rpm. Peak torque of 3,50ONm sits across a plateau from l,000rpm to l,350rpm before it starts to fall away towards 3,200Nm at l,500rpm. Both power and torque have strength in depth, and to rein in the descents there is a retarder fitted.
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