Thesis work: 30hp - Feasibility study of LIB starter batteries in heavy vehicles

Introduction and Background:
Thesis work provides an opportunity to learn more about Scania and establish professional connections. Many current employees started their careers at Scania by completing their degree project. TRATON is a group that includes brands such as MAN, Scania, Volkswagen Truck & Bus, and International, with a focus on sustainable mobility in transportation. As part of TRATON, participants collaborate with industry professionals and contribute to ongoing projects. Thesis work at TRATON offers experience within the organization and opportunities to participate in innovative projects while developing professional relationships. For more information: www.traton.com

Objective
The objective of this thesis is to analyse the cost, efficiency, performance, and lifespan trade-offs associated with employing lithium-ion batteries as 24 V starter batteries in commercial vehicles. Currently, lead-acid batteries are recommended and widely regarded as a cost-effective solution for this application. However, the growing market on Lithium ion batteries (LIB) presents opportunities for adopting the technology into the commercial vehicle and seeks to identify the necessary changes in system design when transitioning from the current approach. The objective of this study is to identify a viable solution and to develop an implementation plan for its integration into commercial vehicles.  

Job description
The project is intended to analyse the problem using a theoretical framework.

• Conduct a comprehensive literature review.
• Examine driving profiles and available historical data.
• Develop mathematical models for the selected concepts.
• Construct thermal and electrical models.
• Carry out cost modelling.
  
  

To complete the thesis: A comparative analysis and rationale for the chosen concepts will be presented, supported by corresponding cost and mathematical models.

Education/program/focus
You are a curious and motivated individual with a solid academic background and a strong interest in sustainable technologies and energy systems. You thrive in interdisciplinary environments and enjoy tackling complex challenges through testing, data analysis, and innovation.

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• Basic understanding of thermal behaviour of battery systems and chemistries.
• Basic understanding of different heating/cooling technologies available for battery systems.
• Familiarity with modelling tools such as MATLAB or Visual basic. Other suggestions on open source tools such as PyBamm are welcome.
• Persons with different educational background are welcome.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken
• Start date for the thesis project: January 2026 (Start date and timeline to be agreed upon between TRATON, the candidate and the academic institution)
  
  

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds – your unique experience and perspectives are valuable to us.

Contact persons and supervisors:
Agnaldo Carvalho Barberino Junior, Manager, TGREEVS, Agnaldo.Junior@scania.com

Prasanth Balasubramanian, Design Engineer, TGREEVS, prasanth.balasubramanian@scania.com

Application:
Your application must include a CV, personal letter and transcript of grades

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