Scania R730

   The Scania R730 heavy prime mover was first revealed in 2011. It is also referred as R730CB8x8EHZ. It was developed as a private venture and was aimed to meet Norwegian Army requirement. This vehicle was purpose-built for heavy haulage during peacekeeping operations. Similar heavy trucks are also available commercially. It is worth noting that Scania is one of the top 5 truck manufacturers in the world.

   The tractor truck and semi-trailer combination can transport loads with a maximum weight of 68.6 t. It can haul main battle tanks, heavy armored vehicles, containers, construction equipment or other types of military cargo. This vehicle can operate on road and on rugged terrain.

   Vehicle has a modular design. A number of components are interchangeable across the range of Scania commercial trucks. It facilitates easy access to parts and service.

   The Scania R730 prime mover was first revealed fitted with an extended crew cab. It accommodates driver, co-driver and up to 6 passengers. It can carry entire crew of the main battle tank or self-propelled howitzer together with the vehicle. Vehicle can be also fitted with a standard cab.

   Add-or armor kit, developed by Akers Krutbruk of Sweden, can be fitted to the cab. It provides protection against small arms fire, artillery shell splinters and IED blasts. Add-on armor kit has been foreseen in the design of the vehicle. It maintains non-aggressive appearance of the truck. In combat zones a civilian looking vehicle is less likely to be attacked. It is worth noting that Dutch Army was present in Afghanistan with a large number of Scania heavy protected trucks. There have been several attacks on Dutch vehicles with traditional military look, however there have been no reported attacks on Scania protected trucks.

   This prime mover is powered by a Scania DC16 21 a 16.4-liter V8 turbocharged diesel engine, developing 730 hp. It complies with EURO 5 emission requirements. Engine is mated to a Scania automatic gearbox. Vehicle has an 8x8 configuration. There is a powerful winch for loading operations.

   The Scania R730 has a cruising speed of 85-90 km/h. This tank transporter can keep pace with other maneuver units. It does not slow down other units like some other equipment transporters.

Variants

   Heavy recovery vehicle. It is also fitted with 730 hp engine and has 8x8 configuration. It can recover and tow similar vehicles that are damaged, immobilized, stuck, swamped or overturned.