Jost Shows New Trailer Developments at IAA 2016

The Jost Group introduced a new fifth wheel coupling and trailer steering system at the IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hannover, Germany.

The JSK 34 sensor coupling version of the ultralight JSK 34 fifth wheel coupling was shown at the show. The ultralight JSK 34 cast fifth-wheel coupling is designed for 2-inch kingpins and can reduce the system weight by up to 88 pounds in some series. It is suitable for all weight-sensitive transports, such as tanker and silo transports.

Jost has equipped the JSK 34 with a hybrid bearing to increase driving comfort and service life while also reducing the dynamic load on the vehicle's frame. This type of bearing combines the robustness and shock absorbing performance of a rubber bearing with the frame-friendly properties of a plastic bearing.

Tridec, Jost's brand for trailer axle steering systems and single-wheel suspensions, presented the EF-S steering system for trailers, which provides more options for driving, maneuvering and safety with its sensor technology and remote control.

EF-S enables trailers with an extremely low trailer neck, such as milk and bulk tankers or trailers with monocoque constructions, to be equipped with a steering system for kingpin axles. The kingpin steering system can steer a maximum of three kingpin-steered axles. It allows the trailer to turn more than usual in tight bends or minimize the swing-out radius of the rear in confined space conditions.

Manual steering by wireless remote control makes the axles steer in ratio or at equal steering angles (“crab steering”). EF-S can deliver extra maneuverability leading to time savings, lower fuel consumption and less tire wear. The EF-S steering system is designed to be simple and easy to install without enormous adapting to the frame, allowing the steering angle to adapt to the mounting space.

Related: Today's Trailer Landing Gear

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ZF Emphasizes Safety with Newest Innovation Concept Truck

ZF Innovation Truck 2016 Photo: ZF

ZF rolled out its Innovation Truck 2016 concept vehicle at the IAA show in Hannover, Germany, to demonstrate its capabilities for developing autonomous-driving technologies.

Noting that it is keeping at the forefront its “Vison Zero” goal of attaining accident-free driving, the Germany-based component supplier said it's “working on enhancing current assist systems for practical use on the road.”

The company said those efforts have led to developing a Highway Driving Assist (HDA) that helps to keep the vehicle in its lane and an Evasive Maneuver Assist (EMA) system that allows a truck to independently evade obstacles and brake. ZF noted that EMA was developed in cooperation with Wabco.

ZF said its Innovation Truck 2016 also “boasts a highly efficient solution with its autonomous maneuvering function,” dubbed SafeRange. “Its intelligently networked systems allow the concept vehicle to autonomously maneuver to the loading bay in a precise and efficient manner, and if needed, with zero local emissions,” the company stated.

By applying its expertise in sensor technology, control electronics and mechatronic systems, ZF said it has enabled the Innovation Truck 2016 “to see, think and act” for safer and more efficient driving.

According to ZF, here is how each of the three new systems function:

Daimler and trailer maker partner on European fuel-efficient rig

New European tractor-trailer setup promises real-world fuel savings of up to 20%. Photo: David Cullen

Daimler's Mercedes-Benz Truck unit along with Germany-based trailer maker Krone have teamed up to put together a linehaul tractor-trailer they say delivers up to a 20% cut in fuel consumption compared to existing combinations.

The rig, rolled out at the IAA Truck Show in Frankfurt, Germany, consists of the latest generation Mercedes-Benz Actros over-the-road cabover mated to Krone's new Profi Liner Efficiency, an aerodynamically enhanced curtain-side trailer fitted with low-rolling-resistance tires.

According to Daimler, the specific Mercedes-Benz Actros unveiled at IAA features an efficiency package that includes the latest generation OM 471 six-cylinder in-line diesel engine as well as the OEM's Predictive Powertrain Control (described as an “anticipatory cruise control system”) and “A-label” low-rolling-resistance tires.

When combined with the new Krone Profi Liner Efficiency trailer, Daimler said “it promises a reduction in fuel consumption, and therefore CO2 emissions, of up to 20% compared to existing combinations.” A standard semitrailer-tractor combination from 2014 is the basis of the comparison. The manufacturers said that their second yearly “Efficiency Run” involved five fleet customers that tested the fuel efficiency of the rigs and verified the results.

Daimler and Krone laid out the various contributions that added up to the 20% efficiency gain:

The trailer's aerodynamics were improved with new self-engineered Krone side panels made of impact-resistant plastic that cover all the sides, including those of the three trailer axles and a four-part folding “rear wing,” also made of robust plastic.

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Utility introduces new flatbed trailer

Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company and Tautliner curtainsided trailers announced the introduction of the new 4000AE flatbed trailer.

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FleetLocate Harnesses Solar Power to Track Trailers

Spireon has developed a solar-powered trailer and asset telematics solution, providing location information and rich data powered by a renewable energy source.

The self-powered solution is compatible with a wide-range of transportation vehicles and equipment including dry vans and intermodal applications such as containers.

“Spireon FleetLocate is a complete trailer management solution that captures a wealth of Rich Data at the trailer level, then translates the data into easy-to-understand, actionable Business Intelligence,” stated Steve Blair, senior vice president of sales at Spireon. “From automating yard checks to right-sizing fleets and increasing driver satisfaction, Spireon customers see dramatic improvements across all areas of their operations, ensuring a rapid return on investment.”

The trailer-mounted all-in-one solar panel and telematics unit can be installed in under 20 minutes, according to Spireon. The solar panel provides increased power source reliability and integrates with the Spireon FleetLocate solution. Trailers and assets can gather telematics information without drawing power from an external battery.

The solar-panel creates an ideal solution for providing reliable trailer visibility when hooked to a tractor going down the road or unhooked sitting in a yard. The reliable energy source can maintain the connection to assets and trailers that remain dormant for extended periods.

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Purkeys Offers Products Through Fontaine PartSource

Image via Purkeys

Purkeys, a company that provides electrical solutions for the heavy-duty trucking industry, has announced that its products will now be available through Fontaine PartSource.

Parts buyers and fleet operators can buy all Purkeys' products directly from Fontaine. Fontaine sells several commercial product lines, of which Purkeys is the latest addition.

Fontaine PartSource is the aftermarket parts company for Fontaine Commercial Trailer. It has provided products to the heavy-duty trucking industry for more than 75 years and is a resource for original equipment manufacturer supplied product lines.

“At Fontaine, we have seen the support that Purkeys has provided to their fleets and the Truck Maintenance Council for many years,” said J. Aaron Puckett, Fontaine PartSource vice president and general manager. “We believe that their innovative product lines will provide great new opportunities for our sales group and distribution partners.”

Related: Purkeys Adds Accessory to Liftgate Double Check

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