It is a fact of life that technology, and technological advances, drive the world of transport. This is clearly evident in truck and trailer braking systems, particularly Electronic Braking Systems (EBS).
As a starting point, basic trailer brake systems with ABS (anti-lock braking system) consist of coupling heads, a relay emergency valve and a load-sensing device. The load-sensing device measures the load on the trailer and adjusts the brake force accordingly.
Conversely, the EBS integrates the load sensing into the electronic control unit. EBS is brake by wire, so the brake signal is set by an electrical brake pedal rather than pneumatics. Additionally, EBS for truck trailers rely on many components working together with software-based control, all of which must stay up to date with a changing landscape of regulations.
In this constantly evolving field, it appears one specialist is ahead of the curve.
Seeing EBS as the ‘heart’ of modern trailer braking systems, Haldex, part of the SAF- Holland Group, is working to improve the efficiency and safety of EBS, contemporaneously aligning with new UN regulations for the industry. Consequently, it has undertaken a review of its braking systems and components and come up with some innovative ways to simplify the design and installation of EBS for trailer manufacturers.
The result is its new, modular system – the EB+ 4.0, which enables trailer manufacturers to flexibly and efficiently react to current and future challenges in the commercial vehicles industry. It consists of three main modules – the electronic control unit (ECU), solenoid valves, and pressure modulators, all connected to a manifold base.
As is common with ‘fit for purpose’ modular systems, for more advanced functions, including EBS, additional modular components can be added, such as a pressure protection valve, pneumatic auxiliary module, mobiliser and a spring brake control module.
The EB+ 4.0 platform, which has been described by Alexander Kraus, senior commercial product manager at Haldex, as ‘future-proof’, incorporates several modules, allowing for the use of different types of ABS and EBS in both 12 and 24-volt systems. Its modular design facilitates a straightforward upgrade from ABS to EBS, as the piping, cabling, and mounting positions remain the same, negating any additional changes to the wiring or installation points.
The EB+ 4.0 has already demonstrated its practical advantages, in that trailer manufacturers benefit from the simple processes needed to expand the system. Additional modules, such as a pressure protection valve, pneumatic auxiliary module, mobiliser, and a spring brake-control module can be easily added on.
Additionally, the new platform complies with the current legal requirements, particularly in Europe, where the new Regulation No. 141 for Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) has been binding for trailers since July 2024. Older ABS generations were no longer able to meet these requirements, whereas EB+ 4.0 comes with the TPMS gateway capability already integrated.
The modular approach also extends to the software, keeping pace with the constantly evolving software field. There is basic software for EBS, with additional application layers that can be added for controlling auxiliaries and connecting other devices such as TPMS.
Software is evolving not only to provide new functionality, but also to meet new regulations aimed at improving vehicle safety. Recently the United Nations introduced UN R156, a new regulation aligned with EU 2018/858 that makes the implementation of a Software Update Management System or ‘SUMS’ for category O vehicles mandatory.
The UN regulation includes the necessity to record and secure all software updates that impact Type Approvals, such as ECU software updates, braking pressure setups, and VIN number changes. This measure aims to prevent unauthorised modifications that could compromise vehicle safety or regulatory compliance.
As part of its software development, Haldex has implemented a SUMS portal which will provide manufacturers with all the necessary control and evidence of software updates applied to their trailers to comply with UN R156.
The suite of Haldex hardware and software products designed to be integrated into trucking braking systems, making vehicle control systems even more advanced include soft docking for automated assistance when backing up trailers, TPMS 2.0 for real-time tyre pressure monitoring, and the info centre for displaying critical vehicle information to the user. Other integrable products include the CAN Hub for efficient data sharing between EBS systems, TEM+ for emergency and park braking capabilities, COLAS+ for manual trailer height adjustments, and ILAS-EP for automatic lift axle control within the air suspension system.
The flexible and adaptable software solution of the EB+ 4.0 platform enables fast and uncomplicated software updates for easy implementation of regulatory changes and the latest safety standards. According to Alexander Kraus of Haldex: “The success of the EB+ 4.0 platform impressively confirms our modular approach. The easy implementation of expansions and adaptations ensures that trailer manufacturers are optimally prepared for current and future challenges. Our customers particularly appreciate the cost efficiency, flexibility and future-proof concept offered by this system.”
By combining modular hardware design with adaptable software and integrated auxiliary systems, Haldex is not only meeting current needs but also proactively preparing for future developments in the industry and future technology trends. As regulations tighten and the demand for smarter, safer, and more efficient vehicles grows, systems like the EB+ 4.0 platform are likely to play an increasingly crucial role in the future of transportation.
With the flexible and future-proof modular EB+ 4.0 platform, Haldex is positioning itself as a pioneer and reliable partner of the commercial vehicles industry, supporting manufacturers and users to meet the highest safety standards, while ensuring cost efficiency.
In the current landscape where safety and efficiency are of paramount importance to the truck and trailer industry, technology advances, such as the EB+ 4.0 and its modular software systems, must be at the forefront of considerations and actions for all industry stakeholders. It is greatly pleasing to see the work by Haldex with its EBS system being wholeheartedly adopted, which, in turn, will drive further technological advances and efficiencies across the industry.
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