The Scania invention behind a smarter, more efficient gearbox
26 NOVEMBER 2025
Per Arnelöf and his colleague earn recognition for their ‘Extra-valuable invention’ – the range interlock in the Scania GW gearbox. Their clever solution makes the system safer, lighter, and more efficient.
The new GW gearbox platform is one of Scania’s major steps towards more efficient and sustainable powertrains. Engineered to boost torque, improve fuel economy, and lower noise, it drives performance and innovation forward.
A small mechanism with a big impact
During development, Per, a System Architect at ePropulsion & Drivertrain, saw a way to simplify how the transmission managed its planetary gears. Their idea, the range interlock, introduced a smart mechanical safety feature that made the system more compact, efficient, and easier to assemble and maintain. This achievement was celebrated at the recent Scania Innovators Party.
The range interlock.
“The range interlock offers many benefits. The patent for the ‘Extra-valuable invention’ covers a safety feature that enables the use of this technology. Integrated into the new planetary gear, it provides greater flexibility for the customer to operate the vehicle at various speeds while reversing, which can be particularly advantageous, for example, when laying asphalt on a highway,” says Per.
Simple yet powerful, the range interlock ensures precise gear engagement and prevents simultaneous activation. Incorporated into the reverse planetary gear, it eliminates the need for a separate reverse gear, resulting in a lighter, shorter, and quieter transmission with improved fuel efficiency, reduced energy losses, and lower production costs.
"Driven by curiosity, persistence, and a spirit of teamwork, Per and his co-inventor Peer Norberg transformed a technical challenge into an inventive solution that simplifies transmission design and sets a new benchmark for efficiency. Their work is an inspiring example of the Scania mindset - where united effort and creativity lead to meaningful breakthroughs.”
The ‘Extra-valuable invention’ award was no accident. It came years after the patent proved its worth in practice. The range interlock delivered real-world performance gains. Since its 2019 launch, the GW transmission has reduced fuel consumption, trimmed weight, and improved drivability, a clear proof of the lasting impact of Per and his team’s idea.
Innovation through collective effort
For Per, technical advancement is not a solo pursuit. He credits teamwork and knowledge sharing as key to turning technical ideas into tangible results.
“I learn a lot through the patent process,” he explains. “It’s not just about having an idea. You work closely with patent specialists who turn your design into a legally binding document. It’s a real collaboration – they make sure the technical and legal details fit perfectly.”
A culture that rewards curiosity and progress
Per joined Scania in 2008 after completing his master’s thesis on transmission efficiency. Since then, his passion for improving gearboxes has led to over twenty patents. His journey reflects how Scania’s innovative culture enables engineers to explore, test, and refine ideas that have a lasting impact.
Per Arnelöf, System Architect at Scania ePropulsion & Drivertrain.
“You need time and curiosity,” says Per. “Ask why things are done the way they are, and work together to find better ways forward.”
Per’s advice to aspiring inventors captures that spirit perfectly: “Be curious. Look into patents. Discuss ideas. Don’t be afraid if your first idea doesn’t work – each one brings you closer to something better.”
We congratulate Per and his team for the invention and for exemplifying how our innovative mindset, grounded in collaboration and a sense of exploration, keeps Scania at the forefront of sustainable transport innovation.
