It was the first vehicle in a new generation of trucks, with newly designed six-cylinder engines,[2] stronger chassis components and a new, more spacious and comfortable cab.

[2] In the summer of 1959 Scania-Vabis presented the smaller L55, with a seven-litre engine.

All L55 series trucks came with air brakes, but power steering was still an option.

In the autumn of 1962 the improved L56/LS56 series was introduced, with an eight-litre engine and dual circuits brakes.

The L66 was mainly intended for export, but was also sold on the domestic market.