How family passion and brand identity shape extraordinary Scania trucks.

At STMichard, a family business firmly established along the Rhône-Alpes–Normandy corridor, this philosophy comes to life through two Scania V8 trucks that embody inherited passion, strong visual identity, and a modern vision of the profession. At the wheel: Clément Michard, 36, entrepreneur, driver… and passionate since childhood.

Clément didn’t fall into trucking by chance. He was born into it. From an early age, he grew up surrounded by heavy trucks, fascinated by customized rigs and, very quickly, by one brand that became an obvious choice: Scania. After obtaining his license in 2007, he combined vocational studies with real-world driving before going full time. Two years later, the desire for independence took over.

In 2009, he founded STMichard with his father, a family adventure that has continued to grow ever since.

Today, STMichard operates eleven trucks and runs regular rotations between Rhône-Alpes and Normandy, mainly transporting groupage freight under curtainsiders. The company has also developed agricultural machinery transport activities at national and European levels.Management is built around a true family trio: Clément, his father, and Émeline, his partner, who handles daily operations. “I still drive most of the time. The road remains my office.”

Within the fleet, two vehicles perfectly embody the STMichard DNA. The Scania R560 V8 “R2”, configured as a 6x2 with a steering axle, is ideally suited for groupage transport. “With this type of operation, weight can sometimes be difficult to control. The 6x2 allows for better distribution and helps avoid unpleasant surprises.”

Also a 6x2, but equipped with a tag axle, it opens the door to low-loader transport with detachable trailers, particularly for oversized or high-profile agricultural machinery. The R2 is a truck filled with history for Clément. Acquired in 2016, this R560 V8 was not just another purchase. It previously belonged to Marcel Hubert, an important figure in Clément’s professional journey. “He taught me how to work and develop my customer base, especially around Le Havre.” Out of respect, Clément kept some symbolic elements: the decorative griffin and the slightly grey-tinted white paint. “It’s a tribute to our collaboration and to the knowledge he passed on.”

At STMichard, tuning is serious business but always controlled. The R2 marked the first step, with a fully customized interior carried out by ADAMOS in Poland, in collaboration with Xavier Salmon: bespoke upholstery, repainted plastics, and harmonized finishes.

Externally, modifications include a customized grille, dual lights, half rear bumper, bull bar, and specific signage — all assembled with the help of his mechanic and Scania Moulins. The NextGen S590 follows a more modern, functional approach. Bodywork and electrical modifications were entrusted to Dutch Style Company, supervised by Emeline Conte, DSC Ambassador. The interior was crafted by W&G Truck Stoffering, painting by Spuiterij Hommersom, and airbrush artwork by Kim Mae Airbrush. The cabin is more understated and robust, featuring two bunks and ideal when attending truck shows with his partner.

Both V8s are equipped with JL Audio systems featuring six speakers and subwoofers — a setup designed for sound quality without excess.

On the NextGen, one detail stands out: an illustration of Moulins, Clément’s hometown, painted on the rear of the cab.

For Clément, customization goes far beyond aesthetics. “A beautiful, clean, well-presented truck is like a well-dressed representative. It enhances the company’s image and builds trust.” A philosophy confirmed by customer feedback — even from those who are not particularly sensitive to the trucking world.

The future now extends across Europe. Clément aims to participate in major events to discover other tuning cultures and meet fellow enthusiasts. His ultimate dream? An EKERI trailer, the Finnish benchmark for removable sidewall bodies. Ciney, Assen, Magny-Cours, Lessay, Beaumont-le-Roger… registrations are submitted. The season promises to be intense.

Through his two Scania V8s, Clément Michard perfectly illustrates the evolution of French truck tuning: a thoughtful, elegant approach blending family heritage with entrepreneurial strategy. At STMichard, every truck tells a story. A story of the road, of family… and of passion that simply keeps on rolling.

Text and photos: AP Trade Vision