One of the Durban’s recognised transport operators, Forum SA, has stepped into the next era of trucking after becoming one of the companies to acquire the new Scania Super units. The move signals a growing shift among local fleets toward fuel-efficient and lower-emission technology, especially on long-haul routes where diesel costs continue to bite.
Back in July 2025, Scania South Africa introduced the Super platform with a bold message about the future of transport in Southern Africa. The company described it as more than just an engine, but a symbol of 30 years of delivering premium trucks with improved fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. The Super was positioned as “built for Africa” and engineered to lead the next generation.
From a practical trucking point of view, the Scania Super brings serious upgrades. The new 13-litre engine platform delivers higher torque at lower revs, allowing the truck to pull heavier loads without working the motor too hard. This low-rev philosophy plays a big role in fuel savings and smoother driving on long-distance routes.
According to Scania, the Super powertrain can deliver up to around 8 percent fuel savings compared to the previous generation, thanks to improvements across the entire driveline, not just the engine. This includes a new gearbox, updated rear axle, and smarter engine management systems working together to reduce energy losses.
What’s the difference from the normal Scania?
The difference between the older Scania models and the Super generation is not just small tweaks, it’s a full upgrade of the whole setup.
Older Scanias, especially those running the well-known DC13 engines, are still strong and reliable machines. They deliver solid power and have proven themselves on South African roads for years. But they rely on older driveline technology and slightly higher fuel consumption under heavy loads.
The Scania Super, on the other hand, is a completely new platform. It introduces a redesigned engine with dual overhead camshafts, improved combustion, and a new twin SCR emissions system. The gearbox shifts faster and more efficiently, while the rear axle allows the truck to run at lower engine speeds while maintaining the same road speed.
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Another key improvement is durability. The Super platform is designed to last longer, with reports indicating up to a 25 percent increase in engine lifespan compared to the previous generation.
In simple terms, the older Scania is a proven workhorse, while the Super is a more refined, fuel-efficient machine built for modern transport demands.
For Forum SA, this investment is not just about upgrading trucks, it is about staying competitive in an industry where every litre of diesel and every kilometre counts. As more fleets start moving towards fuel-saving technology, the shift to next-generation trucks like the Scania Super could soon become the new normal on South African roads.
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