Scania AB, founded in 1911, produces heavy lorries, trucks, buses, and diesel engines. It has production facilities in multiple countries and is now a subsidiary of Traton under the Volkswagen Group.
Vagnfabriks-Aktiebolaget i Södertelge (Vabis) founded
Vagnfabriks-Aktiebolaget i Södertelge (Vabis) was founded on December 11, 1891 in Södertälje, Sweden. Initially focused on building wagons for the rail network, Vabis later transitioned to manufacturing vehicles and engines, becoming a pioneer in Swedish truck-making.
1897
Scania's involvement with internal combustion engine production
Scania's involvement with internal combustion engine production dates back to 1897, when engineer Gustav Erickson designed the engine for the company's first motor car.
1900-03-02
Scania acquires bicycle maker
In 1900, Scania acquires a subsidiary established by English bicycle makers Humber & Co in Malmö, Sweden in 1896.
1902-03
Launch of Scania Type A vehicles
In 1902/03, Maskinfabriksaktiebolaget Scania company launched five vehicles onto the market using the model name Scania Type A, incorporating components from other manufacturers to streamline costs.
1903
First Truck Presentation by Vagnfabriks-Aktiebolaget i Södertelge
In 1903, Vagnfabriks-Aktiebolaget i Södertelge presented its first truck at the Stockholm Automobile Exhibition. This marked a significant milestone in the company's transition from wagon production to vehicle manufacturing.
1909
Adventurous 520 kilometre trip
In 1909, a Scania truck type E with a 24 hp engine embarked on a daring 520 kilometre journey from Malmö to Stockholm in Sweden.
1911
Formation of Scania AB through merger of Vabis and Maskinfabriks-aktiebolaget Scania
Scania AB was established in 1911 as a result of the merger between Södertälje-based Vabis and Malmö-based Maskinfabriks-aktiebolaget Scania. The company focused on manufacturing commercial vehicles, heavy lorries, trucks, and buses.
1912
Delivery of First Fire Truck by Scania-Vabis
In 1912, Scania-Vabis delivered the first fire truck to Norrköping, Sweden. The fire truck was equipped with a 4-cylinder, 60 hp engine and had a maximum speed of 40 km/h.
1916
Significant investments and expansion
By 1916, due to the profits generated from supplying the Swedish army during World War I, Scania was able to make significant investments in its production facilities. The company also expanded its operations to Denmark and Norway, establishing itself as a pan-Scandinavian operation.
1921-12
Founding of new company consolidating vehicle production in Södertälje
In December 1921, a new company was founded to consolidate vehicle production in Södertälje, Sweden. This marked the beginning of financial consolidation and strategic decisions that shaped the corporate profile of Scania-Vabis.
1923
Introduction of the first 6x4 truck
In 1923, Scania-Vabis introduced the first 6x4 truck with a double-reduction drive tandem and new Vabis engines.
1929
Development of track-rear, ski-front vehicle for postal deliveries
In 1929, Scania-Vabis developed a vehicle with track-rear and ski-front design for all-year postal deliveries.
1930
Introduction of Hessleman-Scania 65hp diesel engine
In 1930, a new Hessleman-Scania 65hp diesel engine was introduced, utilizing petrol warm up and oil operation, similar to British paraffin engines.
1932
Development of the Hesselmann engine
Starting in 1932, Scania-Vabis began building the Hesselmann engine under license, which later served as the foundation for the design of an in-house diesel engine.
1934
Last year of showing a loss by Scania-Vabis
In 1934, Scania-Vabis marked the last year in which the company showed a loss. This was a significant turning point in the financial performance of the company.
1936
Implementation of the compact six-cylinder pre-chamber diesel engine
From 1936 onwards, Scania-Vabis started fitting the compact six-cylinder pre-chamber diesel engine in its buses and trucks, capable of running on different fuels and sold to various manufacturers.
1939
Launch of Royal diesel engine with modular design
In 1939, Scania-Vabis engineers introduced the Royal diesel engine with a modular design, offering customers the choice of four, six, or eight cylinders. This marked the beginning of Scania's commitment to modularization in their products.
1940-03-05
First women in the factory
In 1940, the first women were employed in the Scania-Vabis' factory, starting with roles in inspection and similar tasks.
1940-10-22
First electric bus delivered
In 1940, the first electric bus, Scania-Vabis T31, was delivered in Stockholm. Over the span of 1940 to 1951, Scania-Vabis provided more than 120 bus chassis to Stockholm's public transport company.
1947
Sverker Sjöström becomes Scania-Vabis’ first technical director
Sverker Sjöström, an expert on strength of materials, joins Scania-Vabis as the company's first technical director in 1947.
1948
Scania-Vabis becomes general agent for Volkswagen in Sweden
In 1948, Scania-Vabis became the general agent for Volkswagen in Sweden. This partnership signified a new chapter in the company's operations.
1949
Introduction of operational innovations
In 1949, Scania-Vabis introduced operational innovations such as the 'conference method' and 'component philosophy' to enhance product development decision-making and standardization of products.
1954
Release of L71 Regent truck
In 1954, Scania-Vabis became a genuine competitor to Volvo with the release of the L71 Regent truck, re-entering the passenger segment.
1955
Introduction of Scania-Vabis Capitol (C70/C75/C76) city bus
In 1955, Scania-Vabis introduced the Capitol (C70/C75/C76) city bus, a slightly shorter version of the Metropol, which was manufactured until 1964.
1956
Increase in production to over 4500 truck and bus chassis per annum
By 1956, Scania-Vabis was producing more than 4500 truck and bus chassis per year, marking a significant growth in production.
1957
Establishment of Brazilian Subsidiary by Scania-Vabis
In 1957, Scania-Vabis set up a Brazilian subsidiary to start assembling vehicles in Brazil, in response to the increased global demand for heavy trucks and inter-urban buses in the country.
1959
Introduction of Scania-Vabis CF-series front-engined buses
In 1959, Scania-Vabis introduced the front-engined CF-series with models like CF65 and CF75, which were later renamed CF66 and CF76, and built until 1966.
1961-03-05
Scania-Vabis merges with SAAB
In 1961, Scania-Vabis merged with Saab, the Swedish car and aircraft manufacturer, forming a new company called Saab-Scania.
1963
Scania-Vabis LB76 truck cab crash-tested
The 1963 forward-control LB76 truck cab by Scania-Vabis was one of the first to undergo extensive crash testing, contributing to the company's reputation beyond Sweden.
1964-10-25
New central laboratory opens
Scania's new central laboratory, later known as The Hill, is inaugurated in 1964. This marks the consolidation of Scania's laboratory activities in a single location for the first time.
1965
Introduction of Scania CR76 rear-engined bus
In 1965, Scania introduced the rear-engined CR76 as a replacement for the Capitol, available in two versions for different traffic needs.
1966
Acquisition of Be-Ge's Plant for Truck Cabs
In 1966, Scania-Vabis acquired the cab manufacturer Be-Ge Karosserifabrik in Oskarshamn, starting cab production under their own auspices.
1967
Acquisition of Svenska Karosseriverkstäderna (SKV)
In 1967, Scania-Vabis acquired the coachwork company Svenska Karosseriverkstäderna (SKV) based in Katrineholm and established a new subsidiary, Scania-Bussar. This acquisition marked a further expansion of Scania's production facilities and product offerings.
1968-02
Launch of new truck range and rebranding to Scania
In February 1968, Scania-Vabis launched a new range of trucks and rebranded the company as just Scania. The rebranding included a new logo featuring a griffin's head on a white background, and all current models received new designations.
1969-03-05
Introduction of the legendary V8 engine
In 1969, Scania introduced the new 350 hp 14-litre turbocharged V8 engine, which later became iconic in the transport industry.
1969-09-01
Merger of Scania with Saab AB
On 1 September 1969, Scania merged with Saab AB to form Saab-Scania AB. This merger eventually led to the split in 1995, resulting in the name change of the truck and bus division to Scania AB.
1971-10-26
Introduction of CR111 M 'silent bus'
In 1971, Scania introduced the CR111 M 'silent bus', an environmentally-oriented city bus with noise levels equivalent to that of a car.
1973
Launch of the Metropolitan double-decker
In 1973, Scania launched the Metropolitan double-decker built on the BR111DH chassis to replace the Metro-Scania single-decker.
1974-11-02
Introduction of Group Assembly at Scania
In 1974, Scania implemented group assembly to combat high personnel turnover by enhancing the physical working conditions for shop-floor employees.
1976-10-26
New Production Facility in Argentina
In 1976, Scania opened a new production facility in Tucumán, Argentina as part of its Latin American expansion.
1978
Launch of Scania BR112
The BR112 was launched in 1978 as a precursor to the 2-series, replacing the BR111. It marked a significant advancement in Scania's chassis lineup.
1980-01
Introducing the GPRT Range
In 1980, Scania introduced the GPRT range (2-series), marking the company's first entirely modularized product range.
1981
Introduction of Scania 2-series
In 1981, Scania launched the 2-series with models like F82/F112, S82/S112, and K82/K112, replacing the previous chassis models. This marked a new era in Scania's product offerings.
1982-11-02
Success of K Chassis
In 1982, the K chassis became one of Scania's most successful products.
1984
The griffin reappears in Scania's logo
In 1984, the griffin symbol makes a comeback in Scania's logo as Saab-Scania decides to use a trademark as a corporate symbol.
1985
Replacement of Scania K82 and F82
In 1985, Scania replaced the K82 and F82 with the 8.5-litre engined K92 and F92. This transition marked a shift in Scania's engine offerings.
1986
Launch of CK112 as a coach or intercity bus
The CK112 was introduced in 1986 as a coach or intercity bus, sharing design elements with the CN112.
1987-10-26
Scania Technical Centre opens
On October 26, 1987, the Scania Technical Centre is inaugurated, marking an important milestone in the company's development.
1988
Introduction of Scania 3-series
In 1988, Scania introduced the 3-series, continuing the main models from the 2-series. This launch represented a further evolution in Scania's chassis lineup.
1989-10-29
First Ethanol Buses
In 1989, the first ethanol buses were introduced as the first exhaust emission standards were presented in Europe and voluntarily adopted by heavy vehicle manufacturers.
1990
Launch of Scania L113
In 1990, Scania unveiled the new L113 with a longitudinally rear-mounted engine inclined 60° to the left. This design aimed to reduce the overall height of the chassis.
1991-10-26
New Streamline cab range introduced by Scania
In 1991, Scania introduced the new Streamline cab range, marking a significant advancement in aerodynamics for the company.
1992
Launch of MaxCi (CN113CLL) as Scania's first low-entry bus
The MaxCi (CN113CLL) was introduced in 1992 as Scania's first low-entry bus, featuring a lowered window line and kneeling function for easier entry.
1993-10-26
Scania Retarder historical milestone
In 1993, Scania Retarder made history with a significant achievement, showcasing the company's innovation and technological progress.
1995-10-26
4-series line-up unveiled
In 1995, the 4-series product line-up was revealed, featuring sleek design by Bertone. This unveiling marked the beginning of Scania's design direction for the upcoming decade.
1996-01-01
Scania 4-series wins Truck of the Year Award
Scania's 4-series is honored with the prestigious International Truck of the Year Award.
1997
Introduction of Scania 4-series
The 4-series was launched in 1997, continuing the model characteristics from the 3-series but with modular configurations of the basic chassis. It featured upgraded engine options.
1998
Replacement of MaxCi with OmniLink
The MaxCi was replaced by the OmniLink in 1998, sharing design elements with the OmniCity.
1999-08-07
Volvo's attempted acquisition of Scania
On 7 August 1999, Volvo announced a deal to acquire a majority share in Scania for US$7.5 billion. However, the merger failed due to the European Union's disapproval, citing concerns over market dominance.
1999-10-26
Celebrating the 100th Anniversary
In 1999, Scania celebrated its 100th anniversary, marking a century of innovation and development in the automotive industry.
2000-10-26
1,000,000th vehicle produced in Zwolle
Scania celebrates the production milestone of the 1,000,000th vehicle at the Zwolle assembly line, involving multiple production units across different countries.
2001
Launch of fourth generation Scania Classic
The fourth and last generation of the Scania Classic was launched in 2001, built with the same bodywork as the Volvo 9700.
2003-01-01
First Young European Truck Driver competition
Scania organized the first Young European Truck Driver competition where Michele Sandri from Italy emerged as the winner.
2004-03
Launch of Scania R-series
The R-series was launched in March 2004 and went on to win the International Truck of the Year award in 2005 and 2010. It offers various trucks optimized for long haulage with different configurations.
2004-08
Introduction of Scania P-series trucks
The P-series trucks were launched in August 2004, designed for regional and local distribution, construction, and specialized operations. They feature various cab options.
2005
From Euro-IV to Euro-V with SCR
In 2005, Scania became the first heavy vehicle manufacturer to produce engines that comply with the European Union's emission standards.
2006-10-18
Scania Truck Gear Collection Launch
Scania ventured into the fashion industry by releasing the Scania Truck Gear Collection, showcasing a unique blend of style and functionality.
2006-10-27
New Bus Generation Launch
Scania introduced a new bus range and unveiled a market strategy that emphasizes product segmentation tailored to customer requirements.
2007-01-01
Launch of Scania Truck Gear Collection
Scania enters the world of fashion by introducing the Scania Truck Gear Collection.
2008-03
Volkswagen Group's Full Ownership of Scania
In March 2008, Volkswagen Group bought out Investor AB, raising its share in Scania to 70.94 percent, eventually gaining full control by 2015.
2008-07
Volkswagen increases share of voting rights in Scania AB
In July 2008, Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft increased its share of the voting rights in Scania AB to around 69 percent, making it the second major shareholder alongside the Wallenberg family. This integration marked Scania as the ninth independently operating brand within the Volkswagen Group.
2009
New R-series awarded Truck of the Year
Scania's R-series is recognized as the Truck of the Year after delivering over 200,000 vehicles worldwide.
2010-10-15
Introduction of New Version of Scania R-series
Five years after its launch, a new version of Scania's top-of-the-line R-series is introduced, with more than 200,000 vehicles delivered worldwide.
2011-10-27
Scania Communicator Standardization
In 2011, Scania made a significant advancement by making the Scania Communicator a standard feature on all vehicles sold in Europe.
2012-03
Fossil-Free Internal Transports
In March 2012, Scania transitioned its internal transport services to fossil-free fuel, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.
2013
Launch of New Streamline Range
In 2013, Scania unveiled its new long-haul Streamline range, featuring enhancements in aerodynamics and powertrain that reduced fuel consumption by up to 8 percent.
2014-02-21
Launch of Scania's new long-haul Streamline range
Scania introduced a new long-haul Streamline range with improved aerodynamics and powertrain, resulting in up to 8 percent fuel consumption reduction.
2015-11-02
Scania's 150,000 Trucks Connected
Scania reached a milestone by supplying its 150,000th truck with activated connectivity to Aconcagua transportes in Argentina, leading in wearable technology by integrating smart wristwatches with trucks.
2016-01-01
Volkswagen acquires total ownership of Scania AB
On the 1st of January 2016, Volkswagen acquired total ownership of all shares in Scania AB.
2017-09
Scania fined by EU for price fixing cartel
In September 2017, Scania was fined 880 million euros by the EU for participating in a 14-year price fixing cartel along with other major truck manufacturers.
2017-12
Launch of Scania L-series trucks
In December 2017, Scania introduced the L-series trucks with lower cabs optimized for distribution and short-haul tasks.
2019-09-20
Scania Climate Day before UN Climate Change Summit
In preparation for the UN Climate Change Summit in New York, Scania organized a company-wide Climate Day on 20 September 2019.
2019-09-24
AXL – a cabless, autonomous concept truck
In September 2019, Scania introduced AXL, a fully autonomous concept truck without a driver cab.
2020-11
Scania Acquires Nantong Gaokai Truck Company
In November 2020, Scania acquired the truck company Nantong Gaokai in Rugao, China, as part of its expansion plans for vehicle production in the region.
2021-05
Launch of the F1 single decker bus
The F1 single decker bus was launched in May 2021 initially for the UK market and available in diesel and electric drivetrains.
2021-09
Scania launches first fully electric 64-tonne truck
Scania puts the first fully electric 64-tonne truck on the road for customer operations, marking a significant milestone in sustainable heavy vehicle transportation.
2022-03-21
Delivery of First Scania 25 P XT
The first Scania 25P XT heavy tipper was delivered for operation in a demanding mining environment in northern Sweden, specifically designed for mining operations.
2022-03-22
Launch of Scania Super
Scania launched the new Scania Super, marking its 130th anniversary and pushing the boundaries of combustion engine performance.
2022-09-13
Scania ceases operations in Russia
On 13 September 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Scania declared a halt to its operations in Russia, including stopping deliveries of trucks and parts, and ceasing production in Saint Petersburg. They also announced the sale of assets in Russia.
2022-09-19
Launch of My Scania and Scania Driver
Scania launched My Scania - a personalised digital platform, providing customers access to all Scania services in one place.
2022-09-20
Scania offering support during Corona pandemic
During the Corona pandemic, Scania provided support to various parts of society in multiple ways.
2023-03-31
2023-04-05
New V8 range introduction by Scania
Scania introduced a new V8 range, including the most powerful model with 770 hp and 3700 Nm of torque.
2030
Scania presents NXT vision for electrified and sustainable transport
Scania introduces NXT, a vision for electrified and sustainable transport designed for cities in 2030 and beyond.