Approximately 400 exhibitors from 13 countries showcased their ‘mobility of the future’ transport solutions last week at the trade fair for commercial vehicles, NUFAM 2019, in Karlsruhe, Germany.
During 26-29 September, exhibitors presented vehicles in all weight classes, bodies, trailers, tyres, parts, accessories, telematics solutions and services.
Karlsruhe Trade Fair Managing Director, Britta Wirtz, said NUFAM is an ideal platform because it reaches a trade audience with a keen willingness to invest.
In terms of innovative and sustainable investments, the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) demonstrated its regenerative fuels derived from plant residues which are currently undergoing testing in passenger and freight traffic applications.
German trailer manufacturer, Krone, continues to digitalise its trailer-related services. With the app Claim Care, available with iOS and Android operating systems, service participants can report concerns digitally, quickly and easily. The transparency of Claim Care is reported to boost processing and improves the service life of the vehicle. Also, spare parts now feature QR codes for rapid recognition and fast shipping.
On the telematics scene, Krone telematics, with the help of Krone Smart Capacity Management, allows for smarter and more efficient freight routing though automated reconciliation of the freight and order pool, avoidance of empty runs and unused footprint and maximum vehicle utilisation.
Taking digital concepts even further, Krone has developed its own track and trace technology that uses sensors to support the loading and unloading processes of transports.
Krone Smart Track and Trace is reported to fully support monitoring in the supply chain including storage areas, warehouses and salesrooms.
“The charge carriers are provided with beacons (radio beacons) that capture and send information. Thus, quantities, weights, vibrations, recipients, positions, etc. for customers and end customers are presented transparently and comprehensibly,” Krone said. “During transport, there is a complete exchange of information with the Krone Telematics Portal. Communication takes place between beacons and the Krone telematics unit via interface. This enables a transparent flow of goods, which is displayed on the Krone Telematics Portal and the app. The dispatchers learn in real time which goods are in which state on board and how much loading capacity is still available. Krone Smart Track and Trace can be combined with Krone Smart Capacity Management. This way, dispatchers quickly and reliably find out how many capacities are exactly where on the vehicle.”
Krone also showcased load compartment detection tech, Smart Scan, which made its debut in 2016. It has been optimised to provide digital support and intelligent load compartment recognition via a camera and sensors. This system was awarded an innovation prize ‘Trailer Award’ in the category ‘Smart Trailer’.
Joining the trend in Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), Krone presents its in-house solution. This TPMS displays tyre inflation pressures and temperatures in real-time and aids drivers and logisticians in vehicle preventative maintenance.
“Two sensors are mounted on the rim of the tire valve per axle,” said Krone. “The sensors measure tire pressure and temperature per wheel and send it to an electronic control unit, which transmits the signals in real time to the telematics unit. On the one hand the tire conditions in the Krone Portal are displayed to the dispatcher, on the other hand the driver sees in the display of the tractor the evaluation of all wheel signals. In addition, the system alerts the dispatcher and driver if deviations occur.”
Fourth-generation family business, Spier, revealed a new box body production model that is said to be versatile and modular for daily work. This box design features the Spier Fast Slide System, Spier Safety System (pitched roof with adapted slope to prevent weathering – specifically in ice and snow), cargo securing crossbeams, an even end wall and adjustable insert heights.
Martin Reisch brought the latest iteration of its move-R moving floor trailer design which featured innovative connection technology and a continuous chasssis of high-quality, fine-grained steels for a robust yet lighter-weight build.
Reisch has been working intensively for years on the subject of ‘load securing’ in the moving floor, a certification of the moving floor construction acc. DIN EN 12642 Code XL is therefore a matter of course.
A load securing certificate for waste paper bales and brand new paper rolls up to a roll height of 2,800mm proves Reisch’s know-how in securing loads.
The Reisch Hinterkipp semi-trailers with Hardox round troughs have been valued as robust all-purpose vehicles in construction logistics for many years. Reason enough to present this classic in Karlsruhe.
At the QuickSilver booth of Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials, Reisch presented an innovative customer vehicle – a rear dump semi-trailer with light aluminium round body equipped with a wear-resistant QuickSilver plastic bottom.
The revised three-way tipper from Humbaur made an appearance at NUFAM 2019. On all three-way tippers of the HTK model series, the chassis was weight-optimised to allow more payload. At the same time, a lighter bridge was used as a base, so that the loading bridge also contributes to weight savings. The HTK 14 also uses new axles. The front wall of the three-way tipper now has a through-loading function, the tailgate with an automatic locking mechanism, so that the tailgate can be opened to swing when tipping backwards. The trailer now comes standard with spring-loaded cylinders and electronic braking system (EBS).
Humbaur’s multifunctional high loader HBT 10 has also been fundamentally redesigned: The vehicle has been optimised in terms of weight, especially the chassis weight has been reduced. This results in a significantly higher payload with the same overall weight. The loading height of the HBT 10 has been lowered by around 60mm, while the hinged ramps have been extended by 200 mm at the same time. This results in a significantly lower Auffahrwinkel that facilitates loading and unloading. Another highlight of the new HBT 10 is its frame profile: this has a large number of lashing options. Geometrically, the profile is designed so that straps can be hung in the frame profile, even with closed side walls. The corner stanchions on the front of the trailer have been improved, too.
Bolstering the carbon-emission-free delivery market, Humbaur offers the FlexBike which is the result of a cooperation with mobility specialist, Bayk. The basis of the FlexBike is the cargo bike Bayk Bring, which is supplemented by a FlexBox Dry in fibreglass lightweight construction. There is space for 1.4-metres-cubed of cargo, the base area is enough for a Euro pallet where 260kg payload is possible.
The cyclists are supported by a TQ mid-engine with PinRim transmission and a maximum torque of 120 Nm, and a traction help of up to 6 km / h is integrated. Safety features include a Husqvarna differential gearbox on the rear axle, a Brembo hydraulic disc brake and an LED light with brake light function.
The Humbaur FlexBike is approved as Pedelec25 (EPAC standard in the EU) and certified by DEKRA. The 48V Li-Ion battery has a capacity of 2000 Wh (with integrated battery management system). In four hours, the battery can be fully charged.
Rytle also brought its inner-city ‘final mile’ electric cargo-carrying bicycles to the event.
At its exhibition stand, Kögel displayed two Kögel Truck Trailer (KTT) models for the forwarding and construction industry to demonstrate the results of a questionnaire given to professional drivers at the Truck Grand Prix, the Wolfsmeile festival, and at motorway service stations. The questionnaire asked what makes the perfect trailer for truckers. For Nufam 2019, the exhibited Kögel Trucker Trailer, based on the payload-optimised and weight-optimised frame and body of the NOVUM-generation Kögel Lightplus, was equipped with the Kögel FastSlider quick opening and closing system. In addition to responding to driver requirements for shorter loading times, Kögel has also made loading and unloading faster, simpler and safer. Many other optional helpful functions round off the NOVUM-generation trailer, which has been adapted in line with driver requirements.
Like the similarly named Kögel Trucker Trailer, the Kögel Trucker Tipper has been optimised in line with the requirements of drivers using custom equipment. A high degree of user-friendliness in day-to-day use and an increased payload are said to be the main focal points of this tipper trailer. This KTT is based on the payload-optimised and weight-optimised frame, and a tipper trough made from a clever matrix material. The three-axle tipper trailer with 24m³ loading volume is the variant with a 4-mm-thick floor, made of tempered Hardox 450 steel, side walls made of a highly wear-resistant, 5-mm-thick aluminium sheet, and a back wall made from the same highly resistant material with a thickness of 7mm.
German OEM, Kässbohrer, also brought a tipper model to NUFAM 2019 – a robust two-axle K.SKS B spec’d for the construction sector. This tipper can carry a 26-tonne payload with only 9-tonne axles – one tonne more than a conventional two-axle tipper. This feature is reported to enhance the service life of the axles by distributing the load through the kingpin.
The upper structure and chassis integration of the K.SKS B is said to be further enhanced by assistant frame and body fix structure, preventing vibration and noise by increasing vehicle stability. This tipper is also optimised for easy material flow and efficiency loading/unloading.
Kässbohrer has introduced a new load loader to its product range, K.SLL B 2, which is suited for the transportation of tall and heavy agricultural machines. It features a strong central chassis, a pool length of 6,600mm and a kingpin capacity of up to 18 tonnes.
The K.SLL B 2 has a ground clearance of only 100mm and loading height of 400mm. The low loader is equipped with hydraulically-steered axles for maximum manoeuvrability even under the toughest working conditions and at narrow curves with increased technical axle capacity of 12 tonnes and a turning angle up to 42 ̊.
At NUFAM 2019, Kässbohrer showcased its brand-new, lightest ADR tipping silo K.SSK 60 ADR that is designed, analysed and tested for uncompromising safety with full compliance to ECTA/DOW recommendations and ADR regulations. It is suitable for dangerous powder or granular materials transportation such as carbide, coal, ashes and chips. The K.SSK 60 ADR’S tank construction is also manufactured with automatic welding that provides optimum elongation augmenting driver and environmental safety for dangerous good transportation.
NUFAM 2019 was also host to a broad range of vehicle and product premieres.
Meiller presented the ZSK-ti thermally insulated three-sided tipper body to the public for the first time. The ZSK-ti is reported to be optimally suitable for asphalt transport and other transport tasks.
Meanhwhile, Kempf exhibited tippers spec’d for agricultural, construction and freight forwarding applications.
For use in logistics and in the municipal sector, the Bavarian quality manufacturer Günzburger Steigtechnik offers a wide range of industrial grade climbing technology solutions. These include safe and cost-effective constructions such as modular and scaffolding truck de-icing systems, steps, ladders, landings and stairs, as well as work and maintenance platforms.
“Already in our extensive standard range there are many products that are perfectly suited for daily use,” said Günzburger teigtechnik Managing Director, Ferdinand Munk. “Whether aluminium work platforms, sturdy steps, platform stairs, loading ramps, standing and multipurpose ladders or even rolling and folding scaffolds: with their innovative climbing technology solutions, Günzburger Steigtechnik offers products with added value, which enable rapid access to and to the vehicles and above In addition, the occupational safety significantly increase.”
The BPW Group is one of the pioneers of networked transport and is systematically expanding its lead: the market research institute Berg Insight has confirmed the BPW subsidiary Idem Telematics with 65,000 active units in the market as the undisputed European market leader in trailer telematics. Idem Telematics is also the preferred partner for trailer rental companies and OEM manufacturers.
In Karlsruhe, for example, BPW presented the award-winning ‘iGurt’, a smart load securing system that displays the tension of the tensioning belt when lashing the cargo and constantly monitors it while driving. The handy sensor solves a huge problem: deficient load securing is considered to be the main cause of transport damage amounting to 1.2 billion euros – as well as 25 to 30 percent of traffic accidents in heavy goods traffic.
Another benefit for safety, environment and cost efficiency is the new ‘AirSave’ system. It regulates the tire pressure fully automatically and thus prevents dangerous tyre bursts and premature wear. AirSave pays off in the first year: In a three-axle vehicle with a mileage of 120,000 kilometres per year and an average pressure deviation of 10 per cent, transport companies save more than 700 euros per year through the fuel savings (around 250 litres) and the longer service life of the tires. The savings of time, nerves, vehicle and delivery failures is not included. As a result, a three-axle system with AirSave system relieves the environment of 655 kilos of CO2 per year – and the freeway edge of remnants of burst tires.
An uncomplicated integration of vehicle and freight is made possible by TC Track & Trace, whose heart is a handy and robust mini telematics box. With the system, freight forwarders can easily locate their vehicles and recognise their estimated time of arrival. The device does not require power, SIM card or antenna, but is simply attached to the vehicle or just put in – done. In this way, even expensive carriers, construction vehicles or other expensive assets can be easily located and tracked: Thanks to an innovative wireless technology, the system is surprisingly affordable, the battery of the sensor lasts several years.
The central interface of the networked transport is the telematics portal ‘cargofleet 3’, which Idem Telematics demonstrates in Karlsruhe. As a system-open integration platform, cargofleet 3 collects all the data from the driver, freight and vehicle and presents it to the user in the best way possible for a wide range of end devices: for example for the driver, the dispatcher or the transport company. The system can also integrate data from third-party providers and communicate with telematics platforms from truck manufacturers.
This system openness also applies to the on-board computer ‘TC Trailer Gateway PRO’, which Idem Telematics presented at NUFAM: The device supports all radio standards so that sensors and terminal devices in trucks and trailers can be connected wirelessly for the first time. Fewer cable clutter means a considerably simplified installation – even with retrofitting: this is how fleet operators can flexibly and individually design their way into networked transport.
Equipment specialist, SAF-Holland, unveiled new models of the SAF Hercules landing leg series and a new steering concept from the SAF INTRA vehicle range.
Meanwhile, JOST has innovated new brake pads featuring unique premium friction material, a steel backplate, a slot for reliable dirt extrusion, a green coating to aid the conditioning process between pad and disc (even with used discs), an underlay for safe connection between friction material and backplate and a retaining bracket for a stable position in the brake carrier.
Junge Fahrzeugbau unveiled its latest body body with side sliding tarpaulin, Lightstar, which features adaptable lateral loading and unloading for last mile applications.
Lamberet Group and its subsidiaries Kerstner showcased their latest refrigerated transport solutions for delivery at NUFAM 2019 including the Frigoline Expert 12 – a new 7-12-tonne refrigerated truck body and a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter panel van with a new Kerstner Easyfit cooling system and Kerstner Kerstner electric cooling system.
Frigoline Expert 12 is the first refrigeration unit Lamberet has developed exclusively for the light motor vehicle segment. It brings decisive advantages in terms of design as well as robustness, insulation, weight and ergonomics according to Lamberet. The Frigoline Expert 12 can achieve up to 10 percent more payload. The smooth rear and the CX profiles on the front end improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle, all-aluminum profile strips also provide an aesthetic look of the structure.
Safelight Ramp LED spotlights are integrated in the rear portal for improved operator safety, while the recessed ‘Frigo’ door handles are reported to be easy to operate and also improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle.
The Frigoline Expert 12 is available with side swing and sliding door. Options include variable interior widths of 2,100, 2,210, 2,310 or 2,460 millimeters. In addition, the innovative construction in every offered width is compatible with the automatic rolling door Distri +.
The Kerstner refrigerated truck based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is equipped with the Kerstner Easyfit insulation removal system. Due to digital 3D construction and close cooperation with vehicle manufacturers, the Easyfit technology developed by Kerstner ensures that the type-specific insulation panels fit optimally into the body of the van. This ensures the best possible insulation quality while largely preserving the usable interior space according to the OEM. The smooth, impact-resistant surface is particularly easy to clean and HAACCP compliant. The expansion also complies with the ATP standards for the minus cooling area (class C) and the plus cooling area (class A), even with a sliding side door.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe is also committed to producing refrigerated transport equipment that combines environmentally-friendly and optimal efficiency.
The use of the all-electric cooling system TE30, operated with the environmentally friendly refrigerant R410A, is reported to reduce particulate pollution and carbon emissions, lower life-cycle costs and run silently.
The low-maintenance cooling system TE30 adjusts to the requirements of the vehicle and consumes as little energy as possible despite maximum power, providing a cooling capacity of 100 per cent – regardless of the speed of the vehicle engine.
The all-electric Mitsubishi TE30 is powered by an additional generator, which is installed in the engine compartment of the vehicle. In start-stop operation, the all-electric refrigeration unit automatically accesses the power supply of the additionally installed battery storage, so that it functions completely independently of the energy supply. Depending on the operating situation, the TE30 can work autonomously with the battery storage for up to one hour. This can be used in extreme cases, such. In traffic jams, the charge can be further controlled reliably. The TE30 is operated with a very small amount of refrigerant, so the annual leak test is not necessary. A user-friendly remote control with multi-lingual LCD display is standard.
Winter Fahrzeugtechnik, which specialises in the development, manufacture and assembly of vehicle interior linings for temperature-controlled vehicles, has identified emission-free drives, urban logistics and the rapidly increasing mobility as key key influences that will shape the market. The company’s NUFAM 2019 stand featured a all-electric refrigerated vehicle with Winter’s self-sufficient battery system.
Celerity DRS was front and centre at NUFAM 2019. In 2017, Celerity DRS was granted the exclusive European distribution rights for Pressure Systems International (PSI) Tyre Inflation System for commercial trailers. The PSI system is capable of inflating tyres while driving, maintaining the correct pressure even when a puncture is present. Expanding its portfolio of drag reduction systems, the company this year was appointed exclusive distributor in central and western Europe for Airtab.
Karlsruhe-based company, Pneuhage Tire Renewal Technology, focused on its mobile tyre assembly and onsite international coverage services (Pneunet). In the Pneuhage Group, more than 400 service vehicles expand the operating range of the 94 Pneuhage tyre services, 28 stations of Ehrhardt Reifen + Autoservice and 47 First Stop locations. Numerous independent partners of First Stop as well as companies of the in-house franchise chain ‘Reifen1plus’, which are also specialised in commercial vehicle tyre service, support this. Through the Pneunet cooperation, almost 600 independent specialist companies throughout Europe are now providing tyre service and breakdown assistance for commercial vehicles in transport, on the construction site, in agriculture or in intralogistics. The brand-independent network was founded 5 years ago by Reifen Helm, Reifen Günther and Pneuhage.
Complementing NUFAM’s total tyre care concept, Bridgestone brought its latest generation of fuel-efficient Ecopia tyres as well as its retreads and premium tyre range. Bridgestone’s portfolio of tyres
With innovative tread design and a novel rubber compound, the Ecopia H002 is reported to enable a reduction in the total cost of ownership of long distance fleets – without compromising mileage. The Ecopia H002, according to Bridgestone, is characterised by the best fuel efficiency in its class, achieves outstanding performance in wet conditions, is suitable for winter use and offers full comfort throughout the year due to full compliance with European winter regulations.
Aspöck Systems’ business partners SUER GmbH & Co. KG as well as Hofmeister & Meincke demonstrated a variety of Aspöck lighting systems at NUFAM 2019 including the Ecoled II.
Shining a light on commercial vehicle innovation, Hella unveiled its Intelligent Battery Management System (IBS) and remote control system at NUFAM 2019. The IBS is reported show a precise determination of battery state variables such as current, voltage and temperature values.
The Hella radio remote control enables vehicle operators to ‘comfortably’ unlock the cab door. With an additional control unit, which generates up to four different output signals, other functions include automatically opening the engine compartment or tool containers.
Hella also presented its self-sufficient Park Safety Fix (PS-Fix) parking lighting system, Visiotech projection capabilities and portfolio of modular tail lights and similar products.
