Scania Torpedo Hervouin

To showcase such an extraordinary creation, sometimes you have to go all out. At TruckStop, we’re not the type to do things halfway, so for a truck like this, we needed something equally exceptional. We headed to the Paul-Armagnac Circuit in Nogaro, entirely privatized for the occasion. Our photographer Alexis carried out an exclusive photoshoot there, revealing all the elegance of this Torpedo, now considered one of the finest representatives of the French custom truck scene. Fasten your seatbelts—this is going to be spectacular!

They are often Scandinavian, yet the French certainly have nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to extraordinary creations. Antoine Hervouin’s Scania Torpedo undoubtedly belongs in that category.

Behind this build lies far more than a simple aesthetic project. It is the realization of a childhood dream carried by a passionate haulier who managed to build his company without ever giving up the world that had always inspired him.

At just 34 years old, Antoine Hervouin perfectly embodies what we particularly appreciate about this new generation of transport operators who grew up in trucking company yards.

Originally from Brittany, he comes from a family where trucks are part of everyday life. His parents, uncles and relatives all work in road transport. From a very young age, his future already seemed mapped out.

After obtaining a BEP in Road Transport Driving at Étienne-Lenoir High School in Châteaubriant, he continued his education with a Vocational Baccalaureate in Transport Operations, alternating between the AFT training center in Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire and Transports Léon Bertin, where he discovered refrigerated transport.

Once he had earned his diploma and obtained his transport operator’s license, he joined the company before creating his own business, Transports Hervouin, in September 2012.

The adventure began modestly with a brand-new DAF XF105 460 coupled to a Chereau refrigerated semi-trailer.

Thirteen years later, Transports Hervouin employs 31 people, including 24 drivers, operates 25 tractor units, and has a 2,900 m² logistics platform in Ille-et-Vilaine. Today, the company specializes in the refrigerated transport of fresh produce, frozen goods, fruit and vegetables throughout France. Despite the company’s growth and the responsibilities of day-to-day management, Antoine has never lost his passion for trucks.

Before embarking on this adventure, Antoine drove a Scania R560 every day. “It was an extremely reliable vehicle with which I never experienced any major breakdown.” But another model had occupied his thoughts for a long time.

Like many enthusiasts, he admired the famous Torpedos of Elytransline, David Vallière, SLGT, Helleux, Patalacci and STH.

There was no doubt in his mind: the Scania Torpedo represented the ultimate truck. In January 2023, he finally found the vehicle he had been searching for: a Scania Torpedo 164L 580, already fully restored mechanically and cosmetically. The perfect foundation on which to unleash his imagination.

Although the truck had already been restored, Antoine immediately wanted to give it his own identity. The project began with a 3D rendering created by PDT Truckstyling, allowing every detail to be validated before work even began. The exterior transformation was then entrusted to Dutch specialist Van Der Heijden Truckstyling.

The truck received new side skirts, integrated storage lockers, under-cab compartments, complete body smoothing, chassis cladding and a bespoke rear bumper. The front end was also transformed with a Series 4 spoiler, four integrated spotlights, an imposing illuminated sun visor, a roof light bar fitted with driving lamps, and a subtle combination of Volvo lighting and Scania 141 headlights.

The paintwork was completed by Stéphane Rutges, while the entire electrical installation was handled by Tedd System. The result is striking in its consistency. Nothing is excessive. Everything appears to have been designed as though the truck had left the factory exactly like this.

Inside, the Torpedo reveals an entirely different side. The interior has been completely redesigned by Special Interior, with an exceptionally high level of craftsmanship. The rear cab wall features an airbrushed mural depicting his wife, his children and their dog.

“It’s probably the detail I’m most proud of.” Surrounding this artwork are new storage compartments, a refrigerator, a microwave, a complete audio system and a fully optimized driving position.

Beyond its spectacular appearance, Antoine’s primary goal was to build a truck that reflected his company. The Torpedo naturally wears the Transports Hervouin colours while maintaining an elegance that sets it apart from many modern custom builds.

According to him, it is becoming increasingly difficult to innovate in the world of show trucks. That is why every modification was carefully considered with constant attention to balance and consistency.

For Antoine, owning a truck of this quality is not simply about passion. It is also an outstanding communication tool.

“Today, I think it has become part of the company’s image, although we must never forget that first and foremost, we are transport operators.” He also points out that driving a show truck carries a special responsibility. “With a custom truck, you’re naturally more visible. So you have to be beyond reproach.”

Since its unveiling, the Torpedo has attracted attention wherever it appears. Compliments come from the general public, enthusiasts and some of the most respected truck builders in the industry.

For Antoine Hervouin, this recognition is undoubtedly the greatest reward after several years of planning and preparation. The truck is not expected to undergo any further modifications. Today, it corresponds exactly to the vision he originally had in mind.

Its appearance at future Truck Shows will mainly depend on the activity of Transports Hervouin. One thing is certain: this Scania Torpedo is not only one of the finest French custom trucks of the moment. Above all, it tells the story of an entrepreneur who succeeded in turning a childhood dream into reality.

Text and Photos: Alexis Perbet