Thoroughbred Transport by Scania

Here's a rig that not only handles valuable freight but also provides luxury accommodation for up to four

When the freight is high value and bred for top class performance, there’s only one choice for the transport source.

Veteran show jumping horse trainer Greg McCann needed to upgrade his transport for his precious performers, so he turned to Scania to provide the basis of his new vehicle.

The bronze metallic Scania P 440 6x2 rigid has had a body built onto it in New Zealand and complianced for Australian use by Wade Group.

"We take our show jumpers and show horses to Adelaide and all over country Victoria from our base in Ceres, near Geelong," Greg says.

"Where we are based we can get on to the ring-road quickly and there are no traffic lights for us to stop at until we reach Sydney. That’s good for horse comfort as well.

"We don’t cover huge miles, but it is important for our horses to be carried safely and comfortably.

"When we were looking to replace a 20-year-old Japanese truck, we reviewed a lot of potential replacement trucks, but the Scania stood out for us. We test drove a 360hp vehicle but decided the 440 would give us plenty of horsepower for getting up the hills."

The horses originate in Holland and weigh in at between 500 and 600kg each, so hardly make any impression on the payload capacity of the vehicle.

"These are very valuable horses so I want to be sure they are travelling in a secure environment," Greg says.

"Although my show-jumping days are over I will still be driving the truck so on-road comfort is important.

"The new Scania is a big step up for us with its automated transmission and airbag suspension, the horses will get a good ride and also important is the fact that we can bleed the air out of the rear suspension system so the access ramp angle is lower, putting less strain on the horses as they enter and leave the box."

The accommodation for the horses has been finished using stainless steel, rather than galvanised steel and there’s a split air conditioner for keeping everyone cool, and calm on the road.

Greg’s new truck can accommodate up to five horses, though his complement is usually only three or four animals.

"It’s amazing how many friends you suddenly find when they hear you are off to Adelaide or Shepparton to one of the three-day events," he says with a grin.

The design also incorporates a smart and spacious living area for Greg and his wife, with the possibility of sleeping two further grooms, riders or helpers in single fold out beds. The van also has WiFi and a kitchen.

To enable servicing, the Luton peak over the cab tilts up and allows the cab to swing forward providing easy access for regular servicing.

"We’re really looking forward to getting out on the road in this vehicle," Greg says.

Thoroughbred Transport by Scania

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