Swedish bus manufacturer Scania has expanded its local offerings with the introduction of Scania Touring. The new generation of Scania Touring buses was developed to meet the demands of today’s and tomorrow’s bus operators. Available in a wide range of powertrains, the new line is more energy efficient and offers the latest technology in everything from safety systems to reduced emissions and noise levels. Through BJ Mercantile Inc., Scania’s local distributor, the new model can be availed as completely-built-up (CBU) units or with a locally assembled body and customer-specified fittings built by Scania-accredited Del Monte Motor Works, Inc. (DMMW).
“…To offer local bus operators the utmost flexibility and more savings, Scania is unveiling the first Scania Touring with a Philippine-made body to be handed over to Bicol Isarog Tranport System, Inc. This provides operators, like Bicol Isarog, a myriad of options in terms of body configurations and choice of materials not to mention parts are readily available. But you can expect the same level of engineering excellence and riding comfort as with all Scania buses,” said Don Ramos, Sales Manager of BJ Mercantile, Inc.
The partnership with local bus body manufacturer Del Monte Motor Works, Inc. (DMMW) began in 2019 when Scania conducted a thorough inspection of its workshop and manufacturing process. DMMW then had to strictly adhere to the Body Building Guidelines of Scania, documenting each step of the process and sending the data back to Scania Headquarters in Sweden for monitoring. The bus body design is patented for Scania and cannot be used for other brands. In contrast to purchasing CBU units, customers now have more options in terms of interior design – from the audio-video set-up, and interior lighting, all the way to seat options wherein they can choose to install regular bus seats, deluxe, or top-of-the-line lazy boy seats. A toilet can also be added for long-haul trips, and transforming the bus into a mobile conference room or a mobile hospital is also possible.
“Scania has been a part of our wish list as one of the best European brands known for its high quality, durability, and safety features that is why we grabbed the opportunity to be the first to own the Scania Touring with a locally made body and we have 13 more buses for delivery next year. Another important factor is their very good after-sales support courtesy of the 24/7 workshop and guarantee of parts availability,” said Mr. BJ Cu, General Manager of Bicol Isarog.
Part of Scania’s after-sales offerings includes its Fleet Management System (FMS) which allows operators more control over their fleet, boosting operational economy and productivity. FMS promotes efficient and safe driving as the system monitors driving performance aside from vehicle data and fleet position. It can evaluate what factors affect fuel consumption such as increased idling, harsh braking, acceleration, and/or even fuel theft. It can detect mechanical and electrical errors remotely informing Scania’s professional technicians which parts and tools to bring for faster repair in the unfortunate event of breakdowns on the road. But those can be easily avoided by scheduling regular Preventive Maintenance when prompted by the FMS.
Scania Touring buses are equipped with the standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Speed Limiter, Traction Control, Driving Mode (economy and standard), Hill Hold, and Auxiliary Break (retarder). Other functions that can be added to further support the driver whether they are on the open highway or in busy city environments are Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assistance, Blind Spot Warning, Electropneumatic Parking Brake, Vulnerable Road User Collision Warning, and Underrun Protection.
The Scania showroom is located at 1132 EDSA Balintawak, Quezon City.