Scania unveils next-gen retarder

The Swedish truck manufacturer says its new retarder is more powerful and automatically disengages when not in use, saving fuel

Scania has announced details of its new R4100D retarder, which it says provides more power while reducing fuel use and minimising wear and tear.

While retarders have been available in Scania trucks for just under 20 years, this latest-generation unit actually disengages and 'freewheels' when not in use. According to Scania it provides an average reduction in fuel consumption of around 20 per cent, while enhancing the longevity of brake components and linings.

The new unit also provides 4100Nm of braking force – up from 3500Nm for the existing retarder – and is said to provide a more powerful braking effect at lower engine revs through the use of higher gear ratios.

At the heart of the system are two vaned and rotating wheels immersed in oil, which are engaged through a system of synchronisation similar to that found in Scania gearboxes.

According Scania's head of Product Affairs, Örjan Åslund, the new retarder will enhance both the experience for the driver and the bottom line for the operator.

"Reducing fuel consumption is Scania's main priority,” he said.

"The freewheeling retarder produces further savings that also contributes to an elevated driving experience.

"The activation of the retarder itself is either initiated by the driver – via a lever on the steering column or with a light touch of the brake pedal – or when the cruise control requests braking.

"As soon as the retarder is not in use, it freewheels again on its own. But it remains ready to smoothly and firmly change from freewheeling to full braking power in no time.”

Scania Australia has said the new retarder should reach Australian customers around mid-2015.

Scania unveils next-gen retarder

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