The upcoming Perth Truck Show will mark the return of US juggernaut Wabash National to Australian shores with the launch of a specially designed 45-foot (14m) refrigerated semi-trailer.
While details on the new product won’t be revealed until the launch on the opening day of the Perth event, Australian representative Bruce Rock Engineering did share with Trailer Magazine that the unit has been specially designed and manufactured for Australia’s unique transport environment.
“The product will be perfectly adjusted to handle Australia’s high heat and humidity,” said Nigel Withnell, Sales Manager for Bruce Rock Engineering.
“But that capability is just one feature we’re excited about – we’ve also managed to keep the tare weight to a minimum, which means less fuel consumption, less wear on tyres and engines and ultimately lower costs for the fleet.”
“Teaming up with the leading semi-trailer manufacturing and distribution company in the US means our clients will have access to a high quality product that was designed and tested for local conditions,” said Damion Verhoogt, Managing Director of Bruce Rock Engineering.
According to Robert Lane, Director of Product Development at Wabash National, the time is just right to expand the company’s offering in Australia: “Australia, like the US, relies heavily on the trucking industry, so we have a lot in common.”
“With the help of Bruce Rock Engineering, we are confident that our innovative designs, tailored to the unique climate and road conditions, along with our dedication to excellence, will serve the Australian market very well,” he said.
The reefer launch is the beginning of what is supposed to be an extensive business venture between BRE and Wabash National. From September, the Australian company will also be bringing in DuraPlate® composite dry freight trailers, 14m flat tops and 14m drop decks, according to Verhoogt.
Bruce Rock Engineering will exclusively look after WA and the Northern Territory for sales and distribution of all Wabash National products. Bruce Rock Engineering has also teased plans to expand its dealer network throughout Australia’s East Coast, largely through the acquisition of Mezz Trailers in 2014.