Setting the scene: IAA Transportation report

While electrification, sustainability and digitalisation were prominent themes of this year’s IAA Transportation event in Hanover, Germany, we are finally seeing practical solutions not only emerge but finally integrate into real-world applications.

For the first time, the event organisers of IAA transformed their bi-annual exhibition concept to embrace the entire transport and logistics spectrum.

Such a decision seemed highly appropriate as the 2020 edition which specifically focused on trucks, trailers and componentry was cancelled due to Covid-19. Four years between events is an incredibly long time. The anticipation for IAA Transportation this year was, without exaggeration, highly anticipated as a platform to exchange ideas, promote innovation but more importantly reconnect with customers, colleagues and friends. Never underestimate the power of direct face-to-face engagement because the simple act of shaking hands and saying hello to one another was for many a key takeaway from the show.

The Global Trailer team, for instance, met with many industry partners but were also introduced to new contacts and businesses from around the world. Again, there is no adequate substitute for networking in person.

Welcome back IAA!

This year, there were a total of 1,402 exhibitors from 42 countries and 230 national and international speakers. That’s an impressive turnout.

“Following on from IAA Mobility, we have successfully developed and reinvented IAA Transportation,” said VDA President, Hildegard Müller. “We are now exhibiting the entire logistics spectrum, ranging from trucks to cargo bikes and delivery vans to parcel drones. This courage has paid off as the tremendous response from exhibitors and visitors showed that our new approach was the right way to go. Transport and logistics are the lifelines of our society and economy. The new IAA Transportation concept has provided answers to the many challenges that the industry is now facing throughout the world. It became clear in Hanover that our industry is delivering what is needed for a sustainable future.”

This is true. The pandemic really did highlight how important the supply chain is and how vital it is to move critical freight to where it is needed most. What made IAA Transportation particularly significant this year was how front and centre supply chain issues are and that there are remarkable solutions that can be actioned immediately. Some concepts that were theory or very early in their development four years ago, like the electric axle, are now being widely adopted.

The event organisers were ecstatic to report that IAA Transportation 2022 has consolidated its position as the world’s largest platform for the transport and logistics industry – about two thirds of the exhibitors were international companies with visitors coming from 72 countries.

Of the innovations presented championing electrification there was clearly an emphasis on climate neutral drivetrains. Those heavy vehicle manufacturers demonstrated various electric and fuel cell-based drives along with hydrogen combustion engines. Also, there has been progress with the rollout of kits to replace the diesel drives of buses and trucks to be fitted with new battery drives. The tools to effectively modernise and future proof heavy vehicle fleets has arrived.

Meanwhile, bodywork and trailer exhibitors also presented a wide range of innovations including lighter-weight trailers that reduce a prime mover’s energy requirements.
“Our industry is resolutely driving forward the biggest transformation in its history and this is also making an important contribution towards solving the challenges that society is facing,” said Müller. “The message from Hanover is this: We have the competence and the will to combine better logistics with more climate protection. The transport and logistics industry is now putting their innovations on the road – the climate neutrality mission is now in full swing.”

In addition to outdoor truck and trailer exhibits the event organisers said that around 7,500 test rides took place as part of IAA Test Drives and IAA Cargobike Parcours. A total of 61 commercial vehicles were available for testing out as part of IAA Test Drives and the entire test operation was carried out in a climate-neutral way. Visitors also had the opportunity to test the latest models under real conditions.

Standing tall with VALX
It was announced at this year’s IAA that VALX had struck a deal with Krone Commercial Vehicle Group for the supply of landing legs.

On top of this excellent development, VALX Managing Director, Harrold Quaaden, and his team presented their 300*200/17.5” axle, E2!HD energy axle and VI air suspension range of products.

A leader in the electrification of axles, VALX first introduced the E2! axle in 2012 and the E2!HD in 2013.

VALX continues to lead the charge in the electrification of heavy commercial vehicles. Through innovation and a commitment to delivering quality, robust equipment, the Netherlands-based manufacturer is maximising the residual value of trailers throughout Europe and other key markets with its energy axles.

Kässbohrer deconstructs the buzzwords
In a refreshing conversation with Kässbohrer Executive Board Member, Iffet Türken, she emphasised the importance of providing innovative trailer designs for intermodal applications. This, she emphasised, is how fleets can truly deliver when it comes to achieving improved sustainability outcomes and pave the way for a more efficient and safer industry.

A true business leader and global citizen, Türken’s proactive engagement with European Heavy Transport Association and its members underlines how committed Kässbohrer is to understanding the needs of its clients and providing the tools they need to overcome the latest challenges impacting the global supply chain.

Case in point, the OEM launched nine new vehicles at what it considered to be its first proper physical meeting since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.

It’s fair to say these vehicles are fine examples of engineering and add to a prolific portfolio, increasing efficiency in intermodal operations as well as providing fleets more choice when it comes to liquid transportation and heavy haulage.

The OEM was also awarded for its trailer innovations.

Read our recent cover story: Kässbohrer, with its continuous innovation – fuelled by meeting the needs of its customers operating in three continents, with different regulations, climate conditions and operational habits – constantly grows by investing in people, networks, technology and infrastructure.

Smart systems for commercial vehicles: JOST
What better way to show off an automatic coupling system than to put the user behind the wheel of a heavy vehicle simulator. At IAA Transportation, attendees had the chance to try JOST’s KKS innovation via Euro Truck Simulator 2. It was a fantastic demonstration of automatic trailer changeover and what was most intriguing about it was how user-friendly the in-cab interface is and how precise the camera view is. Beside the simulator booth was an actual truck available for a live demonstration.

It was clear that this award-winning system saves operators time, eliminates exposure to repetitive strain injury and is simply a smarter way to couple and uncouple. Better yet, KKS is a remote-control trailer hitching solution that automates the entire coupling and uncoupling process, including air, electrics, and brakes. It truly is a groundbreaking innovation at the leading edge of modern logistics. Intuitive to use, it is also ideal for gradually retrofitting to standard trucks and trailers.

In addition to KKS, JOST offers other assistance systems to make life easier for truck drivers. The Drawbar and King Pin Finder, a practical support for hitching, can be integrated directly into the dashboard.

The King Pin Finder provides assistance during coupling, thereby enhancing both safety and convenience. This latest assistance system allows the driver to find the ideal coupling height and to manoeuvre the prime mover perfectly. The King Pin Finder assists by displaying a live camera image in the driver’s cabin when driving backwards, making the coupling process considerably easier. On top of this, the system’s intuitive handling assists drivers when changing trailers – thereby preventing accidents and damage to the fifth wheel coupling and king pin, as well as the truck and trailer. In combination with the JOST sensor system, JOST thus offers the ideal safety package.

Sensor solutions for fifth wheel couplings also increase safety. JOST demonstrated the ultra-light fifth wheel coupling JSK 34, which is available with or without sensors. The JSK 34 cast fifth wheel coupling is suitable for two-inch king pins and can reduce the system weight by up to 40 kilograms. JOST has equipped the JSK 34 with a newly developed 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.

As the market leader for fifth wheel couplings with sensors, the proven JOST sensor technology, also available for the fifth wheel series JSK 37 and JSK 42 (KKS fifth wheel coupling), is being used. The JSK 34 with sensors is JOST’s answer to the constantly growing demand for weight-optimised fifth wheel safety couplings, particularly for tankers, silo trucks and vehicles carrying hazardous goods, and sets new standards in this market segment. The LubeTronic 5Point central lubrication system ensures that the fifth wheel coupling plate and the lock jaw are reliably lubricated with a constant amount of grease.

The Modul E-Drive electric landing gear sets standards in terms of ergonomics and efficiency. It eliminates strenuous manual cranking and makes coupling and decoupling the semi-trailer easier. Easy to operate at the touch of a button, Modul E-Drive is ideal for trailers that need to be coupled or decoupled frequently. The landing gear drive also shuts down automatically in the event of ground contact or when the landing gear is fully retracted. Differences in height between the trailer and the tractor can be compensated using the vehicle’s pneumatic suspension or manual cranking in a low gear. The electrical landing gear operates effortlessly at outside temperatures as low as -20°C. It incorporates reliable Modul components and is available in various mounting heights. The Modul E-Drive’s internal drive requires no maintenance. Thanks to the long-term lubrication applied in the factory and the wear-resistant design, life-cycle costs are very low.

TRITRONIC, the trailer management system with radio remote control, offers outstanding functionality and safety for heavy transport.
As for environmentally friendly solutions for lower emissions and greater transport capacity, JOST presented weight-optimised products including an aluminium landing gear, lightweight fifth wheel couplings and the new DCA Weightmaster Plus trailer axle – the lightest in its class. To complete the package, TRIDEC steering systems reduce tyre wear and fuel consumption, while JOST’s biodegradable high-performance lubricant ensures less contamination from grease.

The DCA Weightmaster Plus made its debut at IAA and features an optimised structure of the entire axle which reduces trio weight by 51 kilograms. In combination with the optional Weight Optimiser 27, the air bellows support with a lightweight aluminium tail end structure, further weight savings of 27 kilograms are possible in the trio. The highlight: The wheelhead has optimised weight, wear properties and performance. This includes the new DCA X7 brake, the lightest brake in its segment. The aim during its development was to achieve ideal interplay between the brake disc and lining, thereby reducing emissions while maximising the payload and performance.

To cap off its innovations, JOST has consolidated support across all digital channels. Whether you’re looking for a spare part, repair or assembly instructions, the JOST website has it covered. Also, the equipment specialist continues to produce its JOST Truck Stop video series for workshops, drivers and industry partners.

Partnering in the interests of efficiency and cost-effectiveness: BPW
It’s a simple but mind-blowing reality that about 75 per cent of fleet operators do not understand their total of cost of ownership. That is a massive number. How can a business manage its bottom line if there is a lack of an appreciation for the costs involved in running a road transport operation? Thore Bakker, General Manager Trailer Solutions & Mobility Services at BPW, said that cost-effectiveness is at the root of BPW’s solutions and affects fuel efficiency, carbon emissions and even tyre wear. What made BPW stand out at the show was its position as an industry partner, an organisation that strives to add value to transport businesses rather than just point to the latest innovation on the shelf.

To reinforce this mindset, BPW presented an online amortisation calculator or vehicle operators to determine the relative savings associated with incorporating BPW products and services. BPW currently supports the Vehicle Energy Consumption Calculation Tool (VECTO), an EU program to certify trailers on the basis of their carbon emissions (this will commence next year). It is reported to provide more transparency when purchasing a vehicle and is expected to help operators specify more efficient equipment.

It is interesting to note that BPW sees efficiency gains as a joint effort as hauliers, drivers, dispatchers, fleet managers and other associates are intensively involved in development at BPW.

Speaking of collaboration and a shared interest in efficiency, BPW has partnered with Thermo King on the ePower axle-driven generator. Also, idem telematics presented its latest Cargofleet 3 portal which includes maintenance management and a tour monitor that allows the vehicle operator to play out selected data to partners without surrendering its data sovereignty.

The digitalisation of transport, according to BPW, enables total transparency across the entire supply chain. That’s why more and more hauliers are being asked to share the telematics data with their clients. Hauliers do not always have this transparency in mind. Open-system transport telematics specialist, idem telematics, is now making it possible for hauliers to control and specifically share their trip and order data like never before: The telematics portal cargofleet 3 enables trip- and order-related data management for the first time. Trip data can either be entered directly in the portal or transferred from an external transport management system (TMS). For each individual trip, the haulier can operatively monitor the transport and specifically forward data to the shipper or other partners – right down to the continuously updated estimated time of arrival (ETA) and individually selected tracking information. In addition, trip-specific temperature reports and consumption calculations as well as many other data can also be specifically evaluated and forwarded as the haulier pleases.

However, more service and more control doesn’t mean more work. The cargofleet 3 portal enables data evaluation to be configured automatically. This means that alarms can be set automatically for each individual trip (for example, geofencing and temperature alarms). Classic idem telematics: The cargofleet 3 portal functions is an open system that functions independently of vehicle manufacturers’ systems.

“By networking vehicle, driver and freight, the vehicle operator is able to more efficiently organise transport and significantly expand their range of services,” said idem telematics CEO, Jens Zeller. “Nevertheless, it is still crucial that vehicle operators retain full sovereignty over their data and do not become dependent on third-party systems. With cargofleet 3, we simultaneously strengthen the haulier’s service capabilities and data sovereignty. That’s our contribution to the ‘Internet of Transport’.”

In a somewhat surprising development, the new BAX e-truck with the electric axle drive eTransport from BPW was on show at IAA Transportation.

“In the company’s nearly 125 years of history, BPW has always successfully overcome challenging times together with its partners,” said Bakker. “This solidarity, this team spirit, is very special – and we want it to stay a part of us as we continue to drive innovations for more efficiency in transport in the future.”

Another big move at IAA Transportation was the partnership between BPW and the service network Alltrucks.

The Alltrucks service network founded by Bosch, Knorr-Bremse and ZF is enhancing its service and trailer expertise with axles, running gear solutions and e-solutions from BPW. The Alltrucks partners in central Europe will provide BPW mobility products and digital spare parts services from the start of 2023. Vehicle operators are expected to benefit from a faster, safer and closer trailer services.

The multi-brand, full-service workshop concept ‘Alltrucks Truck & Trailer Service’ and BPW Bergische Achsen KG signed an international cooperation agreement ahead of the IAA Transportation. Through this cooperation, BPW will enhance its service networks with Alltrucks workshops in Germany, the Netherlands, Austria and Switzerland. The cooperation will then be successively expanded throughout Europe. From January 2023, Alltrucks partner workshops and selected existing BPW service partners will offer maintenance and repairs of trailer axles and suspension components to the highest standard: through training, digital services, a simple and smart spare parts service and standardised processes, BPW and Alltrucks will ensure closer, faster and safer trailer services – and therefore more uptime and customer satisfaction.

Specialised Alltrucks partner workshops will also take over the after sales service for BAX, the new brand for electric trucks with a BPW axle drive system. The vehicle with EU type approval and with Alltrucks workshops trained to provide eMobility services, the new BAX 7.5 is ready for its Europe-wide roll-out.

BPW is also supporting Alltrucks with its own spare parts trade network. In this context, service points will have access to innovative digital services – such as a smartphone app which can be used to identify spare parts in seconds, and which will give in the future access to maintenance documentation and instructions. Upon request, BPW may also provide a digital spare parts warehouse which can be integrated into the existing workshop system or placed on the premises as a pre-equipped container (‘Upbox’): spare parts can simply be picked from the shelves; Through Radio Frequency identification Tags the parts are automatically identified, invoiced and replenished.

“Through the partnership with Alltrucks, we can offer vehicle operators across Europe outstanding, standardised service quality for everything to do with trailers,” said Bakker. “This enables us to guarantee even more close-knit digital efficiency in our solutions and optimal uptime.”

Homer Smyrliadis, CEO and CFO of Alltrucks said: “With BPW, we are strengthening our Full-Service workshop concept with an additional European industry leader in the commercial vehicle sector. This brings us a big step closer to a more comprehensive, efficient and safe mobility concept for transport companies. The commitment of our two companies to provide excellent services has convinced us that through this cooperation we can fulfil the increasing expectations of our customers.”

Schmitz Cargobull leads the way
On the road to IAA Transportation 2022, Schmitz Cargobull was transparent with its impressive series of next-generation trailers and transport solutions which have previously been reported by Global Trailer in-depth. Nevertheless, the elephant in the room impressed with a number of its latest developments which we can summarise here.

For more than 10 years, Schmitz Cargobull has been offering its own solutions in the field of transport cooling units with the S.CU (Semi-trailer Cooling Unit), which is optimally matched with the cooling bodies and the trailer telematics.

As a result. the S.CU modular system is being refreshed. The S.CU d80 will replace the S.CU 1.0. The robust Perkins diesel engine will continue to be used in the S.CU d80, making it suitable for transports to countries with lower fuel quality.

The refrigeration circuit has been completely overhauled compared to the previous model, and is designed to meet the requirements in the mid-range area. New features include a microchannel condenser and a scroll compressor. With the overhaul, the unit has a high cooling and heating capacity for the specific segment and is characterised by lower consumption and quieter noise emission compared to the previous model. The S.CU d80 is only available in the MonoTemp version and should now be available to order.

On the other hand, the battery-electric powered S.CU ep85 with power electronics operates locally emission-free and is specially designed for use in distribution transport. With 15,800 W cooling and 10,500 W heating capacity, it is equivalent to diesel-powered units.

For the S.KOe COOL all-electric reefer box body, Schmitz Cargobull brings together its experience in box bodies, axles, transport cooling units and networking.

The S.CU ep85 is part of the S.KOe COOL box body semi-trailer. With its battery capacity of 32 kWh, an average electrical operation of up to 4.5 hours can be ensured, depending on usage and requirements. Recharging from the power grid is done via the CEE three-phase connection installed on the cooling unit and takes about two hours. In addition, the all-electric S.KOe COOL is equipped with an electric generator axle that recuperates energy during braking and other processes, and thus reduces the recharging times of the battery via the power grid. This also minimises charging times at distribution centres. Intelligent control ensures that the charge level of the high-voltage battery is kept as high as possible to provide a high level of operational reliability for unplanned standstill situations, such as traffic jams, for example. The power of the electrified axle is specially adapted to the needs of the cooling unit. With the all-electric S.KOe COOL, Schmitz Cargobull has created the basis for ecological goods transport, thus enabling further CO2 reduction.

The purely electric operation of the S.CU ep85 is very quiet, which offers advantages in urban areas, especially for deliveries at night or in the early morning. The electric system also reduces maintenance costs, as there is no need to change the oil, for example.

Another advantage is that through integration into the overall vehicle, the power electronics can be protected in the cooling unit and are not exposed to the weather. In addition, the trailer only weighs around 80 kg more than a trailer with a conventional transport cooling unit. The S.CU ep85 is available in both MonoTemp and a MultiTemp variants.
A particularly eye-opening exhibit was the S.KI tipper semi-trailer with an improved payload capacity of up to 280 kilograms (50kg chassis, 180kg body, 50kg frame).

The weight of the new rounded steel body with a loading volume of 24m³ has been optimised for use on building sites. Weight savings of up to 180kg have been achieved here. The wide flat floor ensures a lower centre of gravity, helping to deliver optimum handling and even wear. The upper lips have been redesigned with an enhanced cross-section to increase vertical and horizontal rigidity, which makes the rounded steel body even more stable. Lateral deformation of the upper lips as a result of load pressure has been significantly reduced, meaning they run a lot better and sliding-tarpaulin-style body covers are now even safer.

The S.KI tipper semi-trailer’s steel chassis frames have always been characterised by an ideal balance between weight optimisation, robust durability and tipping stability in daily use. The fundamental redesign of the modular frame has enabled weight savings of 45-110kg to be achieved depending on the length and frame design. The new modular frame system for all trailer lengths is available in a Standard, Light or Heavy-Duty design depending on the level of use. Use of the new chassis results in further weight savings of 50kg.

Schmitz Cargobull grants customers a five-year warranty against rust-through for the S.KI frame generation in a galvanised design. Painted frames also offer better protection against corrosion. Customers benefit from a high resale value thanks to lower loss of value. Four different frame lengths are available (system lengths 7.2, 8.2, 9.6, 10.5), depending on the application, load level and desired body volume. In addition to the Standard version, a Light version for especially high payload or a Heavy-Duty version for particularly heavy-duty use are also available.

The underride guard meets all the criteria set out in ECE-R58.03. The weight has been reduced here, too, and handling has improved. The folding mechanism allows for easy operation from one side and, when folded up, provides good ground clearance of 728mm. This enables easy manoeuvring up to the road paver. The electro-pneumatic underride guard with sensors for the LED position indicator has also undergone a makeover with optimised mechanics and cable guide.

The sensors record the driving and unloading position, which means that the underride guard can be operated safely from the driver’s cab.

The standard tail light position has been modified for transporting bulk goods and asphalt. It is now available as a version that is 140mm higher and 80mm set back, which creates a greater distance to the bulk cargo during unloading. As a result, the risk of damage to the underride guard bracket is reduced, while taking legal regulations into account.

Production on the new S.KI tipper semi-trailer is scheduled to start at the end of the Q1 2023.

But wait there’s more.

To prevent overloading in the future, Schmitz Cargobull is making a new on-board weighing system available as an option for tipper trailers. Trailers, as well as roads, are thus subject to less wear and tear, while also saving fuel costs and reducing CO2 emissions. The on-board weighing system allows the driver to determine and document the vehicle’s payload at the location where the vehicle is loaded, and is no longer necessary to drive to a stationary weighing system, which saves time. Improved driving dynamics thanks to the avoidance of overloading increases driving and road safety. The equipment and make of the towing vehicle are irrelevant for the functioning of the weighing system.

The on-board weighing system, which can be calibrated (calibration class 4: Bulk material), uses the factory-installed pneumatic suspension systems with electronic control and hydraulic cylinders to determine the current loading weight (payload) of the trailer. This makes the weighing system more economical for the customer than other systems with additionally attached sensors, and also more robust to withstand the tough operating conditions of a tipper semi-trailer. Operation is intuitive, whether via the supplied screen or via smartphone in the beSmart app. The calculated cargo data can be called up by the driver immediately after weighing. The Schmitz Cargobull telematics allow the data to then be transferred and processed further in the TrailerConnect portal.

Now they’re just showing off.

To improve occupational safety and check the load and the area behind the trailer, special camera systems are installed on the tipper. The cargo area camera enables a convenient overview of the load in the trough. This reduces the risk of accidents for the driver as they can track the loading process via the camera from comfort of their cab.

An additional reversing camera monitors the area behind the trailer when tipping or reversing, providing protection against ramming damage. At the same time the risk of injury to persons behind the vehicle, who are not visible in the side mirrors can be minimised.

As all the necessary operations can be carried out from the cab, a safe and ergonomic working method for the driver is ensured, thanks to the innovative equipment consisting of pneumatic underride guard, electric sliding roof, on-board weighing system and supporting camera systems.

In addition to new safety packages for the S.KO COOL reefer (Transport Asset Protection Association TSR1 certification), the OEM was awarded trailer innovation awards for its aerodynamic S.CS EcoFlex with Power Curtain and aerodynamic storage box, EcoPack.

Bespoke truck body kits with TSE – Trailer System Engineering
Stephan Girnt, Managing Director of TSE, has established an incredible business. Not only does his team manufacture a fantastic product but the way they’ve innovated their consultation and sales process to be as streamlined and informative as possible is simply staggering.

TSE supplies certified truck body kits for curtainsiders as part of a modular design. Everything from the components to the modules and the roof systems offer many variants including the option to fully customise for specific applications.

The business has 90 employees, at least 1,000 kit variants, more than 300 loyal customers and two production sites in Germany. Better yet, delivery timeframes are only three or so weeks depending on the project.

“Based on our experience, we offer qualified advice about all curtainsider transport solutions and a prompt delivery of our products,” said Girnt. “Using our truck body kits will allow you to save a significant amount of time and money.”

TSE’s easy to mount body kits are precisely manufactured and include: front wall, rear portal, side option, roof system and subframe. For semi-trailers, and truck and trailer combinations in various applications and industries – suiting almost any transport solution.

The single components and modules can be ordered individually. All common loads securing certificates are available for these kits as well.

“For the front wall, for instance, you will typically have a clear lateral loading area by using the TSE-front wall including the central lift systems as no slat pockets interfere,” said Girnt. “By using side extensions and accepting a slightly reduced side loading path, manual lift systems can be installed. Available for curtainsiders, dropsiders and quick curtainsiders.”

To assist the end user, TSE has compiled a series of simple questionnaires covering kits, subframes, supplement top gate, supplement drop sides, spare parts and certificates.
The ultimate innovation, production aside, has to be the TSE Measurement Configurator.

“The TSE Measurement Configurator shows the possibilities and variants of our kits and offers you a working aid when defining your project,” said Girnt. “ It illustrates the kit, its dimensions in all variants and positions of individual components; facilitates the development/construction of the customer-specific superstructures at the vehicle manufacturer; and supports the construction in the workshop. You can also send your results via link or print them out as a PDF.”

Mission beyond zero: Krone
German OEM, Krone, presented 11 exhibits at IAA Transportation. Sustainable trailer technology from Krone is even capable of reducing fuel consumption and therefore also the CO2 emissions of semitrailer tractors by 20 to 40 per cent. Krone demonstrated the extent to which electrified trailers can influence the sustainability of fleets at stand C40, with the eCool Liner and eMega Liner prototypes, developed by Krone in collaboration with the start-up company Trailer Dynamics.

A powerful e-axle is at the heart of the innovative technology, which supports the drive of the semitrailer tractor and also recovers braking energy through recuperation. The energy carried in the eTrailer is also enough for long hauls of more than 500 km. The Krone eTrailers can be used with any conventional semitrailer tractor with a plug-and-play process.

Moreover, the eLiner technology in conjunction with BEV prime mover units contributes to increasing the range of a fully electrified semi-trailer on long hauls of more than 500km.

Thanks to the eCool Liner with Celsineo unit, Krone is taking another step towards sustainability: In the innovative refrigerated semi-trailer, the fully electric Celsineo cooling system ensures that the sensitive cargo is cooled without emissions in closely coordinated collaboration with the electrified drive. Celsineo, a joint brand from Krone and Liebherr, created an entirely new class of cooling systems based on the principle of three plug-and-play cooling modules with the same design, which is now also available in a fully electric version. The 800 V high voltage system in the Krone eCool Liner not only supplies the fully electric Celsineo cooling system, which has an average power requirement of 15 kW in the freezing range, it also supplies the electric drive train of the eTrailer.

The Krone eCool Liner represents another version for sustainable refrigerated transport with the fully electric Carrier Vector HE 19 cooling system. Here, the second trailer axle in the form of a recuperation axle supplies the battery pack installed longitudinally. Through intelligent control electronics, it supplies a fully electric cooling system, so that this Cool Liner runs entirely without a diesel unit and the cooling system emits no CO2 or particulate matter. Another sustainable effect is the lower noise emissions of the purely electrically run cooling system, which also enables night-time deliveries.

When it comes to the digitalisation megatrend, Krone presented the ‘Krone Intelligent Transport Solutions’ (KITS) with a series of new technologies and services. KITS introduces new standards and highlights its strategy, as a manufacturer-independent platform, to easily manage different telematic systems through only one portal solution. The new standard interface is open to all systems, both incoming and outgoing. for third-party providers such as real-time visibility platforms (RTV), fleet management and transport management systems (TMS). With the practical self-service function, simple and transparent data transmission to all connected systems is even more convenient.

More and more sophisticated services from Krone Intelligent Transport Solutions pave the way for the additional automation megatrend. Thanks to the collaboration with the partner Shippeo, Krone was the first trailer manufacturer to provide ETA predictions (Estimated Time of Arrival) in real-time, as part of the scope of their telematic solutions.
Another example of progressive automation is the intelligent Krone Smart Capacity Management load compartment detection, now ready for series production, which detects the load capacity and enables more efficient use. The basic level SmartScan surveys the load compartment per camera.

In the Krone Telematics Portal, both the algorithm and the camera image for each trailer, are shown for optimum control. As a result, the dispatcher can track the trailer in real-time and see how many parking spaces are currently occupied. The next expansion level of the SmartLoad smart capacity management evaluates the SmartScan images with artificial intelligence and thus automatically records the available cargo space. This prevents unladen trips and also improves the carbon footprint. The Krone Smart Capacity Management can also be integrated in transport management systems and supports fully automated filling of available capacities. Moreover, SmartLoad automatically detects insufficient load securing as well as shifted and possibly damaged loads.

Another digital innovation is the autonomous Krone Smart Collect Solar telematics unit, which operates autonomously and maintenance-free thanks to solar energy. There are also new practical functions in the Krone TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System), in which different TPMS sensors, as they are found in mixed fleets, can be integrated. Furthermore, the new Krone TPMS takes account of extreme temperatures, as observed in midsummer and in very cold regions, for the alarm recommendations. This prevents unnecessary alarms from being triggered and disturbances in the transport process.

Automation: the intelligent Box Liner Automatic container Chassis. With container trucking, it is often unclear ahead of time which container size must be carried. The driver is usually only given this information shortly before loading, and they must then adapt their container chassis accordingly, involving numerous steps, as quickly as possible. Under the automation guiding theme, Krone is breaking new ground here with the innovative concept vehicle Box Liner eLTU 50 Traction Automatic – in an environment that is already increasingly characterised by automated container transporters, such as the port of Hamburg.

The key feature of the innovative Box Liner Automatic is the option of automated pre-settings. The driver can conveniently and safely initiate the setting of the container chassis for the container to be transported by pressing a button on the remote control from the truck cab. Compared to the standard procedure, the new Box Liner Automatic technology from Krone represents a quantum leap. All of the previously required manual activities performed by the driver to adjust the container chassis are now a thing of the past. For the driver, this not only represents physical relief, but also significantly improved safety. At the same time, faulty setting of the chassis is avoided. Last but not least, the new automatic function also positively influences the trans-shipment speed: For the port drayage, the efficiency is expected to increase by about 10 per cent.

SAF-Holland has all bases covered
The SAF-Holland Group – comprising SAF, Holland, V.Orlandi, TrailerMaster, Neway, KLL and York – is one of the world’s largest suppliers for commercial heavy vehicles with a portfolio that includes axles, suspensions, brakes, couplings, landing gears and other accessories. The company strives to develop products that increase efficiency, safety and the environmental performance of vehicles. As such, there has been a distinct focus on digitalisation and connecting trailers in addition to the electrification of axles.

SAF-Holland supplies trailer manufacturers as an OEM on six continents. In the aftermarket, the company delivers spare parts to the manufacturers’ service networks and to wholesalers. SAF-Holland works closely with fleet operators and freight forwarders. As a development supplier, the company is valued by original equipment manufacturers as well as by fleet operators, who can minimise their operating costs with the SAF-Holland innovations and service packages.

Around 3,600 committed employees worldwide are already working on the future of the transport industry today.

In all its product categories, SAF-Holland is among the top three suppliers worldwide and continues to expand this market position. The drivers of the continuous product innovations are the current megatrends electrification, digitalisation and automated driving.

SAF-Holland is focusing on the key issues of its customers: Safety, efficiency and weight reduction as well as environmental performance. With its lightweight solutions, the supplier enables significant weight savings while making a significant contribution to reducing the CO2 emissions of truck-trailer combinations.

The company has a particular skillset in the development and production of small runs and in application technology for individual solutions for special-purpose vehicles. Thousands of individual axle systems combinations are possible.

Expanding electromobility and reducing emissions: With the SAF TRAKr regenerative braking axle, SAF-Holland offers a great opportunity for more efficiency and sustainability in the transport industry. The electric trailer axle can be used in all trailers with electrical consuming units such as refrigerated semi-trailers or semi-trailers for construction materials, but also in vehicles with electro-hydraulic units such as moving-floor vehicles or tanker trucks. It reduces or even completely eliminates noise, particulate and CO2 emissions. In addition to the added comfort for the driver, the SAF TRAKr meets all legal requirements for inner-city low-emission and environmental restriction zones. Following the successful test phase in actual haulage operation, the electric axle will go into production and to market before the end of the year.

With the SAF-Holland Automated Coupling System, the manufacturer proves its expertise for the interface between truck and trailer. As an important step towards autonomous driving, automatic coupling automates and accelerates the coupling and uncoupling tasks with a sensor-based process. For drivers, that means more safety, time savings and an attractive workplace in the cab. The SHAC System with its high-speed data transfer in real time is a key element for making automation of semi-trailer trucks economically viable in the long term.

In terms of the digitalisation megatrend, SAF-Holland is working on an intelligent, networked trailer that is integrated into the digital logistics processes. The objectives of the Smart Axle concept include increased safety, optimised processes, lower overall costs and compliance with the latest legislation. The Smart Axle is accordingly supplied with sensors for wheel-end monitoring, including brake and tyre pressure. The SAF TrailerMaster telematics solution provides digital data in real time – for more transparency, safety and efficiency as well as reduced vehicle downtime.

The new Saf Tire Pilot I.Q. is also part of the Smart Axle solution for digitalisation of trailers. It meets the requirements of GSRII 2019/2144 and ECE-R-141, which will make tyre pressure monitoring systems mandatory from 2024. When the tyre pressure drops below the preset value, an indicator in-forms the driver and the tyre-inflating system automatically increases the pres-sure. The digitalised system prevents complete failure of the tyres, optimises their service life and saves fuel thanks to the continuously correct tyre pressure.

The new SAF-Holland I.Q. portal also follows the concept of ‘intelligent quality’: The online platform increases service quality by bundling a number of digital services from the supplier for commercial vehicle parts, including the electronic PoD spare parts catalogue. The smart search in the knowledge database allows users to quickly locate the desired data, documents and information.

The SH Connect app, in the near future, will utilise Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to turn smartphones into workshop assistants for the reliable identification of spare parts.

When a trailer is brought into a workshop, the mechanics often have to do detective work: It is often not directly obvious which of the installed parts come from which manufacturer. And if the semi-trailer comes in directly from a journey, the dirty underbody can make it even more difficult to identify the installed products.

For all cases where the previously standard QR Code on the suspension cannot be scanned or no inspection pit is available, SAF-Holland already uses the widely accepted NFC standard technology. The NFC chips are installed in both hub caps of the axles, reliably protected against external influences. The chips are read out with the SH CONNECT app. If the application is open and the NFC function is activated, the smartphone will detect the NFC chips at a distance of a few centimetres. The app provides users with all available product information, such as installation, operation and repair instructions as well as certificates and brochures, documentation and videos for correct installation and removal of the identified product.

The unambiguous identification of spare parts is key to repairing damage correctly and quickly. NFC prevents parts from being mixed up during ordering and the ensuing delays when parts ordered in error have to be returned or exchanged. Workshop employees no longer have to browse through catalogues or update spare parts lists – the SH CONNECT app always provides the most up-to-date information. That saves time, costs and human resourcing, increases safety and ensures that trailers can return to the road quickly.
The next IAA Transportation event is scheduled for 17-22 September 2024 (press day: 16 September 2024) once again in Hanover, Germany.

Fast Fact
A total of 1,402 exhibitors presented at IAA Transportation 2022 of which nearly two thirds were international companies – 260 were exhibiting bodies, trailers and semi-trailers and there were nearly 600 suppliers as well. Sixty-eight international start-ups were also present in Hanover for the first time. Six cargo bike manufacturers also presented their new products, making an important contribution to low-emissions and city-friendly logistics.

Fast Fact
Tip Trailers Services – which has recently rebranded as TIP Group – showcased its rental solutions, maintenance and used equipment sales opportunities at IAA Transportation 2022. In addition to this, TIP also presented its digital solutions and spread awareness of its sustainability efforts by offering attendees tiny pot plants.

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