Steffen Faas Makes a Bold Move with New Freightliner Truck
As the new season gets underway, Steffen Faas and his tankpool-24 Racing team are turning heads in the paddock with a bold move: after several years behind the wheel of a Scania, the experienced truck racing driver is switching to a Freightliner – a decision fueled by ambition, emotion, and a passion for innovation.
A New Challenge – and a nod to Touring Cars
“We wanted to take on a new challenge – especially in terms of engine and drivetrain,” says Faas. “It was time to level up and push our technical development further.” Coming from a touring car background, Faas was drawn to the Freightliner, particularly the bonneted configuration. “The seating position, the handling, the weight distribution – it all feels much more like a touring car. As a driver, that suits me perfectly.”
Built from the ground up
The preparation phase was intense. “We went through a lot of long nights, put in huge amounts of work, and made countless new contacts. There were plenty of challenges, but also so much valuable input,” he reflects. “The project really brought us together as a team and taught us a lot.”
They rebuilt the entire truck from scratch. “There isn’t a single bolt left in its original place. We adapted everything to the regulations – in close coordination with the FIA, who supported us throughout. It was a full-on process.”
Inspired by a legend: The P-51D Mustang
Visually, the truck is a showstopper. Its design is inspired by the iconic P-51D Mustang fighter plane – a tribute not only to aviation, but also to Faas’ love of Top Gun. “We wanted a strong theme that makes an impact and works well from a marketing point of view. Emotion plays a huge role for me – and I wanted a truck that stands out. I wanted something special.”
Technical setbacks, emotional wins
Switching to a new engine meant starting from scratch. “That’s what threw us back the most. We spent four years developing the Scania engine, and now we’re essentially starting over with the Mercedes power unit. But we’re proud to have taken this step – because in the end, emotion matters.”
Despite the challenges, the new Freightliner has already created buzz beyond the paddock. “I got a call from the director of the Technik Museum Speyer. They asked me to bring the new truck to the Brazzeltagevent which takes place this weekend – alongside legendary Mercedes race trucks. That kind of recognition really means a lot.”
Track debut in Most – one step at a time
After early tests on a break-in track for road trucks, the real challenge began in Most. “That was the first time we could push the truck properly. Of course, some things broke – that’s part of the process. It’s an old chassis completely rebuilt, and we’re still dealing with teething problems.”
Faas and his team are taking it step by step. “We started with the engine. Next up is the gearbox, then the rear axle. It’s a long road, but we’re confident.”
Looking ahead
Performance-wise, Faas expects big things: “With the new configuration, especially in terms of handling and weight distribution, we’re hoping for a big step forward. Our goal is clear – fight consistently for top spots in the Chrome category and make our presence felt at every round.”
And with the season start just over a week away Steffen is looking forward to the new track on the calendar: “I’m most looking forward to the German rounds – especially the Lausitzring with the DTM. That one’s a real highlight – for the team and for the fans.”
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