Scania is scaling innovation through structured collaboration with startups via the Nordic platform Combient Foundry. Since 2019, this approach has produced more than 25 pilots, helping Scania solve complex problems in autonomous systems, machine learning, and electrification.
The model is simple and efficient: Scania identifies a problem, startups pitch solutions, and selected companies work directly with Scania teams under streamlined procurement rules.
Key Focus Areas of the Scania–Combient Foundry Collaboration
Scania targets fast, scalable innovation. Each project selected addresses a defined business or technical gap. The process is driven by open innovation challenges, with proven success in the following areas:
1. Simulation Tools for Autonomous Driving
- Startup: Applied Intuition (USA)
- Problem: Real-world testing of autonomous systems is slow and expensive.
- Solution: High-fidelity simulation environments.
- Result: 10x to 100x faster verification of autonomous software compared to physical testing.
2. VR Training for Electric Vehicle Technicians
- Startup: Digitalnauts (UK)
- Problem: Expensive, resource-heavy technician training for BEVs.
- Solution: Fully immersive VR-based service training.
- Result: Cuts travel and equipment costs, saving over $1.1 million annually.
3. Machine Learning for Aerodynamics Optimization
- Startups: RICOS (Japan) and PredictiveIQ (USA)
- Problem: Time-consuming CFD simulations slow aerodynamic design.
- Solution: AI model predicts drag and airflow with high precision.
- Result: Engineers test more designs in less time using simulation-trained ML tools.
