Factory Double Cab R620 Crewcab V8 Water-Foam Fire Truck
Due to the excessively tall cab, the R-series flat-floor flagship models like this one are not typically suitable for conversion into primary Scania R620 8×4 18000 liter water foam fire trucks. That’s why Scania‘s preferred chassis for such conversions is always the P-series—not only because it offers a factory-built double cab, but more importantly because the P-series cab sits lower to the ground, making it easier for firefighters to get in and out.
For those accustomed to seeing the P-series and G-series Scania trucks, encountering an R-series again reveals the unique qualities of this former flagship model. Its height and exterior detailing, such as the metallic trim and the V8 emblem next to the headlights, all point to its premium status within the Scania lineup.
This factory-built R620 Crewcab 8×4 does not use hub-reduction axles. Instead, it’s fitted with Scania’s single-reduction drive axles.
The tires are standard Bridgestone 315/80 R22.5, reflecting a significant difference in overall configuration. Much of this is due to the space taken up by the factory double cab, which reduces the available payload area. Consequently, the liquid-carrying capacity is also reduced: while the R620 8×4 with a day cab can carry up to 26 tons of liquid, this double cab version carries only 18 tons.
Scania’s well-known modular design philosophy is fully embodied in the R620 Crewcab. The cab, chassis, engine, transmission, and axles can all be configured to customer requirements without the need for additional R&D. This means that customers can choose a factory-built double cab on anything from the P-series to the R-series, eliminating the need for aftermarket body builders to cut and splice a second row into the cab. Numerous pre-drilled mounting holes on the frame further simplify the body conversion process.
Scania trucks equipped with V8 engines have long held the reputation of being “Kings of the Road.” When this road king transforms into a tough rescuer at the scene of an emergency, the advantages of its large-displacement engine come into full play. The 15.6-liter V8 engine produces a maximum output of 620 horsepower and 3,000 Nm of torque. Paired with Scania’s Opticruise 12-speed AMT transmission, the R620 delivers rapid response times even when fully loaded.
For the 2nd-row access of the R620 Crewcab, Scania has equipped the vehicle with foldable steps. When the rear door is opened, the step automatically folds down to assist firefighters in boarding. When the door is closed, it retracts—an extremely user-friendly design.
The cab interior is identical to that of a standard R-series truck. With the familiar RPG-series dashboard, looking back at this wraparound-style instrument panel after getting used to the current NTG models, one can truly appreciate how rapidly truck technology has evolved.
Although it’s a flat-floor model, the front row only has 2 seats—for the driver and co-driver. The rear row features 8 individual seats arranged in a face-to-face layout, allowing the vehicle to carry up to 10 people—ideal for crew transport.
All factory-installed cab grab handles on Scania fire trucks are painted bright yellow for visibility.
This heavy-duty water-foam fire truck, based on the Scania R620 chassis, is mainly designed for combating large-scale fires. Hence, it is equipped with a high-capacity tank system:
- Water tank capacity: 10,000 liters
- Foam tank capacity: 8,000 liters
- Fire pump flow rate: up to 12,500 liters per minute
While these figures sound impressive, in reality, the water carried by the fire truck is often insufficient for large fire scenes. Most of the water used in firefighting still needs to be supplied via on-site hydrants.
In addition to firefighting capabilities, the Scania R620 8×4 18000 liter water foam fire truck is also equipped with a set of elevating floodlights, which provide illumination in blackout conditions at fire scenes.
