Thesis Work 30hp: Study on solar panel supported heavy transport

The domain for Research and Innovation announces a thesis project suitable for one master student.

Background: 
Scania has performed a research project on solar panel supported plug-in hybrid heavy transport truck and trailer, the results encourage to more investigations in the potential energy contribution of solar integration to heavy transport.

Project goal:
Project goal is to study the potential energy contribution of solar integration to heavy transport and its implications for vehicle performance and the transport system with the purpose to support future development decisions.
The work shall assess the technical feasibility of integrating photovoltaic (PV) panels into heavy-duty trucks by analyzing different vehicle configurations to identify suitable surfaces and structural designs for solar integration. Technical aspects such as available surface area, panel installation and potential shading effects as well as vehicle property changes as for example changed weight distribution shall be evaluated. The master thesis will also examine the compatibility of solar modules with truck electrical and battery systems and investigate how solar energy best can support traction batteries and auxiliary loads.

Assignment:
•    Literature study on the topic, and study the Solar truck project performed at Scania and Ernst’s Express
•    Identify and analyze freight transport missions where solar integration offers technical and economic value 
•    Investigate feasible vehicle configurations and solar panel integration options
•    Perform business case analysis for feasible alternatives
•    Present the results at TRATON in Södertälje at auditorium and technical report.

Organisation of the work;
•    The study will be performed at TRATON R&I Södertälje, being at the office three days a week.
•    The assignment is suitable for one Masters students, 30hp
•    Assignment time frame: January 2026 – June 2026
•    Supervisor TRATON, Martin Hede 
•    Advisory group will be set up to support the student in the work
•    The results is to be presented in public report excluding possibly business sensitive information and a full TRATON internal report.

Contact person:
TGRMRT, Technology theme leader Martin Hede, martin.hede@se.traton.com 
TGRMRT, Domain manager Stas Krupenia, stas.krupenia@se.traton.com

A background check might be conducted for this position. We are conducting interviews continuously and may close the recruitment earlier than the date specified.