New driver area provides outstanding workplace
11 DECEMBER 2020
The new-generation Scania buses and coaches feature completely redesigned driver areas with improved ergonomics, safety, comfort, and driveability.
“Our aim was to develop the very best workplace for a professional bus driver,” says Lotta Jähkel, Studio Engineer at Scania R&D.
The ergonomics and reachability have been vastly improved. All controls are clearly marked and within an arm’s reach from the driver’s normal sitting position. The instrument panel is modular which allows it to be extended for example with the bus stop module or with a longer extension that could house infotainment equipment.
Better access and reachability to often-used functions
The new buttons are half as big compared to the current generation, while retaining sufficient ergonomics. The smaller buttons make it possible to optimise the instrument panel In size while increasing the number of buttons located on the instrument panel. That provides more functions in the same area and gives the driver better access and reachability to often-used functions.
The pedals have been modified to allow the driver to smoothly slide the foot between the accelerator and the brake without needing to lift the foot.
A compact steering column has created more space for feet and knees. The driver’s working area has been adjusted to fit a large span of different driver heights from 150 to 210 cm.
Significantly improved visibility for the driver
The driver will also experience the enhanced climate system with a significantly better air flow. The visibility for the driver, especially just in front of the bus, has been significantly improved due to the approximately 80 mm lower top surface of the instrument panel, larger windscreen and slimmer A-pillars.
“All through the process we have focused on achieving the best visibility possible. All in all, I really feel that we’ve succeeded in designing an outstanding workplace,” says Jähkel.
