Scania recently introduced its latest gearbox, the G38, at the Elmia Fair in Sweden. This advanced addition to the G-series gearboxes for Scania Opticruise is specifically engineered to complement Scania’s flagship 770 hp V8 engine, known for its remarkable power output of 3,700 Nm. The pairing of the G38 gearbox with the V8 engine promises impressive fuel efficiency, weight savings, smooth performance, and exceptional startability.
Designed for Maximum Torque The G38 gearbox is tailor-made to handle the extreme torque produced by the 770 hp V8, boasting a capacity of up to 3,800 Nm. Despite this impressive torque-handling capability, the G38 maintains the same weight and dimensions as its predecessor, the G33, which was first introduced in 2019. This compact design is achieved without sacrificing durability or performance.
Innovative Engineering for Enhanced Durability According to Mats Henriksson, Development Engineer at Scania R&D, the secret behind the G38’s ability to manage such high torque lies in the use of advanced metallurgy. “We have incorporated more extreme steel qualities and employed technologies like cog polishing and shot peening to enhance the hardening and durability of critical components,” Henriksson explains. Additionally, extra oil channels have been integrated to ensure optimal lubrication for key parts.
Lighter, Quieter, and More Efficient The G-series gearboxes, including the G38, are lighter than their predecessors, thanks to their all-aluminum housings and smaller overall dimensions. Weighing 60-70 kg less than older models, the G38 gearbox also boasts reduced friction, which contributes to fuel savings. Its lower noise levels are another significant advancement, aligning with upcoming regulatory standards for noise reduction in commercial vehicles.
Revolutionary Gearbox for Heavy-Haulage Applications Bo Eriksson, Product Manager at Scania Trucks, highlights the versatility and strength of the G38. “The G38 is a game-changer for industries that require high horsepower and torque, such as heavy-haulage tractors,” Eriksson says. He adds that the G38 offers unmatched flexibility and performance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications where power and reliability are crucial.
Heavy-Duty Version for Challenging Conditions The G38 is also available in an HD version (Heavy Duty), known as the G38CH, which features a wider planetary gear wheel for enhanced robustness. This version is designed to handle high torque on the prop shaft, even under the most demanding road conditions or off-road environments.
Advanced Features and Superior Gear Range Compared to Scania’s widely used GRSO926 gearbox, the G38 is more compact and features only one built-in torque limitation, where a minimal 100 Nm of engine power is cut off at specific gear and RPM points. This slight adjustment is barely noticeable to drivers. The G38 offers 14 forward gears, including a super crawler and direct gear, and up to 8 reverse gears, ensuring maximum flexibility for various driving scenarios.
By introducing the G38, Scania continues to push the boundaries of performance and innovation, providing its customers with powerful, efficient, and reliable solutions for demanding transport needs.
