HORSEPOWER:  From raw brute force of Scania 770S to refined sophistication of Mercedes-Benz Actros 2663, each truck on this list offers something unique, setting new standards for excellence on the road

By Motoring Reporter

When it comes to heavy goods trucks, power is the name of the game. In South Africa, where vast distances and challenging terrains are commonplace, having a truck that can deliver maximum horsepower is essential for efficiency and productivity.

Today, we delve into the realm of heavy-duty haulers to uncover the top 5 most powerful trucks, each boasting impressive horsepower figures that command respect on the roads. The most powerful heavy goods truck in South Africa in February 2024 is the Scania 770S, a behemoth of a truck that redefines power and performance. With a staggering 770 horsepower under its hood, this Swedish marvel is built to conquer even the toughest of terrains with ease.

The Scania 770S is not just about raw power; it also boasts advanced technology and innovative features designed to enhance driver comfort and safety. Whether hauling heavy loads across long distances or navigating challenging routes, the Scania 770S stands tall as a symbol of reliability and excellence in the heavy goods truck segment.

Next up is the Volvo FH16 750, a formidable contender that leaves a lasting impression wherever it goes. Packing a punch with its 750 horsepower engine, this truck is synonymous with brute force and unmatched performance.

Built to excel in demanding conditions, the Volvo FH16 750 combines power, efficiency, and cutting-edge design to deliver a driving experience like no other. With Volvo’s reputation for quality and reliability, it’s no surprise that the FH16 750 commands a prominent place on South Africa’s roads, trusted by drivers and fleet operators alike to get the job done, no matter the challenge.

SCANIA R730

Another Scania makes its mark on our list with the R730, a powerhouse of a truck that leaves competitors in its dust. Boasting an impressive 730 horsepower engine, the Scania R730 is engineered to deliver uncompromising performance and reliability. Equipped with advanced features and intelligent systems, this truck offers a seamless blend of power, efficiency, and comfort, making it a top choice for heavy-duty operations in South Africa. Whether hauling freight across the plains or navigating steep mountain passes, the Scania R730 rises to the occasion, setting new standards for excellence in the industry.

VOLVO FH16 700

Continuing Volvo’s dominance in the heavy goods truck segment is the FH16 700, a machine that commands respect with its formidable power and unmatched capabilities. With a robust 700 horsepower engine at its disposal, this truck is built to tackle the toughest of challenges with ease.

From long-haul transport to heavy-duty construction work, the Volvo FH16 700 delivers unrivaled performance and reliability, backed by decades of engineering expertise and innovation. With its bold design and cutting-edge features, this truck is a testament to Volvo’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of heavy goods transportation.

Mercedes-Benz Actros 2663

Rounding off our list is the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2663, a powerhouse of German engineering that leaves an indelible mark on South Africa’s roads. Boasting a formidable 630 horsepower engine, this truck combines raw power with unmatched comfort and sophistication.

The Actros 2663 is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and safety features, ensuring a smooth and secure driving experience in any condition. Whether hauling freight across the country or maneuvering through urban streets, this truck delivers exceptional performance and reliability, making it a preferred choice for discerning drivers and fleet operators alike.

These heavy goods trucks represent the pinnacle of power, performance, and innovation in the South African transportation industry. From the raw brute force of the Scania 770S to the refined sophistication of the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2663, each truck on this list offers something unique, setting new standards for excellence on the roads.

As South Africa continues to grow and evolve, these trucks will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping the future of transportation in the country, driving progress and prosperity for years to come.

A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO FORMULA 1 CONT…

What happens in an F1 Grand Prix?

A Formula 1 Grand Prix is held over a minimum distance of 305 kilometres, and so the number of laps at each event will be the fewest number of laps needed to exceed that distance.

Whether the race weekend follows the standard format or the F1 Sprint format, the Grand Prix on Sunday is the main event and generally lasts up to two hours.

Drivers can conduct ‘reconnaissance laps’ as they head to the grid to gauge track conditions and make any last-minute checks, before stopping their cars in their grid position. There’s just time to make some last minute tweaks before the drivers walk to the front of the grid for the national anthem.

@NEXT WEEK 8 rule changes you need to know for the 2024 F1 season

MOTORING:

Briefs

BEWARE IDES OF MARCH

Motorists and commuters could be in for more hard times in the coming months, with the latest data pointing to significant petrol and diesel price hikes in March.

The latest unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) implies that 95 Unleaded petrol could go up by around R1.35 per litre next month, with 93 Unleaded rising by R1.31.

The outlook is even more bleak for diesel, which looks set to rise by between R1.44 (500ppm) and R1.58 (50ppm). Should the above predictions prove to be accurate, South Africans will end up paying R23,87 for a litre of 95 ULP at the coast and R24.59 in Gauteng, where 93 ULP will rise to about R24.23.

COROLLA CROSS

REFRESHED

Big news: Toyota revealed a refreshed Corolla Cross last week. introducing a host of enhancements aimed at refining both its aesthetics and technological offerings.

As with its predecessor, buyers have a choice between a naturally aspirated 1.8l petrol engine or a hybrid powertrain.

The non-electrified version delivers 103kW of power and 172N.m of torque, while the hybrid variant combines a 1.8l engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 90kW, all transmitted through either a Super CVT-i gearbox or an E-CVT gearbox, respectively.

Given its history of success, particularly as South Africa’s second-best-selling passenger car in 2023, the facelifted Toyota Corolla Cross is expected to continue its strong performance in the market.-CARMag

BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL

For the past decade, “boring” grey-coloured motors have been top dog. But data from sales experts Auto Trader shows the second-hand car market is shunning the outdated trend in favour of former favourite black.

Researchers at Auto Trader have also revealed the number of clicks cars on their website get each year — 2.2 billion in 2023. Of those, nearly 600 million were for black motors, with grey coming in some way behind in second place with nearly 437 million and white pootling along in third with almost 350 million.

MAPS FOR LEXUS

Lexus South Africa is proud to announce the appointment of Maps Maponyane, a renowned television presenter, actor, entrepreneur and fashion icon, as its newest brand ambassador. This partnership signifies a dynamic alignment between the luxury automotive brand and Maps Maponyane, reflecting shared values of lifestyle, elegance, craftsmanship, and a commitment to sustainability.

Both Lexus (the company wants us to believe) and Maps Maponyane epitomise the essence of refined living and sophistication, making this collaboration a natural fit..

PARIS SUVs PAY MORE

 In an effort to counter the horde of SUVs cluttering the streets of Paris, residents have voted to introduce a new parking fee scheme.  Petrol, diesel and hybrid cars in excess of 1600kg, and EVs exceeding 2 tonnes, will be stung by the new rules. Charges of AU$30 per hour to park in the city centre, and $20 for city-limits parking will be applied to cars exceeding the dictated weight limits. Speaking with The Guardian, Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo endorsed the 54.6% yes vote, declaring the higher fees “a form of social justice”.

ONE MORE THING…..

BRITS have realised exactly what a tiny coffee cup icon means if it ever pops up on your dashboard and it could save your life.

Drivers should stop driving almost immediately if they ever see it, as it means you could be too tired to drive. The feature is new to Mercedes-Benz motors and is thought to be the very first technology of its kind in the car industry. Called Attention Assist, the super clever technology uses a specially designed algorithm that is based on your driving patterns and techniques. This is paired with specialised sensor that detect driver fatigue and sends you a warning in your car if they sense an issue.

Thorough research by Mercedes engineers found that sleepy drivers often make small steering errors when on the roads and they can even change their steering behaviour slightly.