For ease of entry and exit, the new cab can be specified with automatic kneeling, courtesy of a front air suspension, to give a single 440mm entry step on both sides of the cab, and can be specified with up to three passenger areas. All L-series cabs are 2,000mm long and available in three roof heights; low, normal and high.
“Traditionally, low entry cabs were restricted to the refuse collection industry but are now being specified for more and more applications,” says Andrew Jamieson, sales director for Scania (Great Britain).
The optional kneeling facility, during which the vehicle can be driven at up to 15 kph (10 mph), permits single-step entry via a floor well, with the cab floor height itself being approximately 800mm from the ground, depending on tyre choice. Without kneeling, a second boarding step is fitted, with the cab floor height being approximately 930mm. Movement around the interior is assisted by a passageway in front of the engine tunnel connecting the driver and passenger areas of the cab.
The L-series is powered by Scania’s updated nine-litre diesel engine, which is available in 276, 315 and 354 bhp versions. During 2018, Scania will also add to the L-series engine range its OC09 dedicated gas-fuelled engine in two power outputs, 276 and 335 bhp (and for both CNG and LNG). All engines can be combined with the Scania Opticruise transmission or with an Allison automatic gearbox.
In terms of enhanced safety for operation in urban areas, the low datum height L-series helps the driver detect vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians more easily. The driver's vision can be further assisted by the fitment of an optional Scania City Safe Window in the passenger door.
Also launched in December was a new-generation crew cab based on the P-series vehicle cabin, a 404bhp gas engine, and a 7-litre diesel engine family available in 214, 246.5 and 276 bhp developed with Cummins. Although intended for urban operations, it is not compatible with the new L-cab.