With an unladen weight starting from 4.7 tonnes, the ecoCHAMP by BERGERecotrail is a true all-rounder in the lighter vehicle market according to Schmitz Cargobull.
An enhanced version with a shorter wheelbase has now been developed to maximise payload without overloading the tractor unit’s drive axle. Due to its high payload the new ecoCHAMP LTO reduces the number of journeys by up to 10 per cent, and it is also reported to be ideal for use in combination with an electrically powered tractor unit (e-tractor unit).
In day-to-day transport operations tractor units’ drive axles are frequently overloaded, according to Schmitz Cargobull, particularly when heavier e-tractor units are used. To resolve this challenge, the three axles on the new ecoCHAMP LTO have been repositioned and the wheelbase has been reduced while still observing the defined turning circle.
“As a result, less strain is placed on the curtainsider’s kingpin and the tractor unit’s drive axle so that, in practice, more goods can be transported without overloading occurring,” Schmitz Cargobull said in a statement.
“This is particularly important when trying to exploit the full payload when transporting beverages and timber loads, and when using e-tractor units.
“The ecoCHAMP LTO has an unladen weight which has been reduced by 1.5 tonnes. Like all BERGERecotrail vehicles, it has been produced with a special lightweight design, which uses the Reuleaux triangle as a characteristic of its cutting-edge technology. The Reuleaux triangle enables a great deal of material to be removed from the l-beam without adversely affecting the strength and stability. This also minimises the vehicles’ unladen weight and maximises the payload.
“The ecoCHAMP LTO trailer is certified for transporting beverages (a single layer of beverage crates on pallets plus kegs) and piece goods in accordance with DIN EN 12642 Code XL, DIN EN 12195-1 and VDI 2700 for maximum payload. An interlocking vehicle restraint system allows loading and unloading times to be cut and efficiency to be increased.”
Schmitz Cargobull said the trailer can also be fitted with the optional POWER CURTAIN which is good at catering to turnover speed and efficiency requirements.
“The certified structural rigidity (according to DIN EN 12642 Code XL) is achieved even without support laths thanks to vertical and horizontal reinforcements, and a standard anti-theft protection fabric,” the OEM said.
“As a result, the vehicle can be loaded and unloaded quickly and easily without extended handling processes. This increases transport efficiency and occupational safety, meaning the driver can continue their journey quicker and further optimise the transport process.”
